It might also develop through Naruto's actions instead of his words. Since he can't talk, he would have to rely on gestures and facial expressions more. His friends would start to learn to read these signs, and this new form of communication could create unique and interesting interactions. For example, Naruto might use hand signs not just for jutsu but also to convey simple messages like 'yes' or 'no'.
The plot could take a darker turn. Without Naruto's communication, misunderstandings could easily arise. Enemies might take advantage of his silence and spread false rumors about him being under some kind of evil influence. This would lead to a situation where Naruto has to prove his innocence without being able to speak for himself, adding a lot of tension and drama to the fanfiction.
The plot could develop through the reactions of other characters. They would be confused and concerned about Naruto's silence, which could lead to them trying different ways to reach out to him. For instance, Sakura might use her medical ninjutsu to check if there's any physical reason for his silence.
As Naruto is silent, his friends might start to recall past events to see if there were any signs leading up to this. They could also try different ways to communicate with him without words, like using body language or leaving him notes. This could lead to some interesting interactions and new friendships or alliances forming as they all work together to reach Naruto.
One possible reason could be a traumatic event. Maybe he witnessed something so horrible that it made him shut himself off from everyone. For example, if he saw his friends in great danger and couldn't save them in time, it might have led to his silence as a form of self - blame.
Perhaps he's under a powerful genjutsu. In the Naruto universe, genjutsu can manipulate a person's perception and behavior. It's possible that an enemy has cast a genjutsu on Naruto that makes him believe that if he talks to anyone, something bad will happen to them, so he chooses to remain silent.
It might change his relationships. He could communicate with the ghosts of fallen comrades or enemies. This would give him a unique perspective. Maybe he could understand the motives of former villains better and find ways to prevent future conflicts. Also, it could make his bonds with his living friends even stronger as he shares what he learns from the ghosts.
Well, it could change the plot in many ways. For example, he might get some crucial information from the dead. Maybe he could learn some long - lost jutsu from a dead ninja master, which would make him stronger and help him in battles. Also, he could get some secrets about the Akatsuki's plans from their deceased members, which would give Konoha an advantage.
The story in this fanfiction would be quite different. Since Naruto doesn't become a ninja, the power dynamics in the village change. There would be no Naruto to challenge the status quo in the ninja world. Instead, the story could revolve around how the other ninja adapt to a world without Naruto's influence. Maybe some of the conflicts that were resolved by Naruto in the original story now fester and cause bigger problems. And Naruto, as a non - ninja, might have to find a way to deal with these issues from the outside, using his wits and new - found non - ninja skills.
In this type of fanfiction, the plot might develop in a way that Naruto tries to fix things he previously thought were okay. For instance, he could decide to reform the ninja academy's training system. He has the experience of being a student there, so he knows the flaws. This would then lead to him facing opposition from the traditionalists in the village, creating a lot of conflict and drama in the story.
Perhaps Naruto is focused on his own personal growth and training. He might see the yaoi relationships around him as a distraction from his goals of becoming a stronger ninja. He could be thinking that engaging with others involved in yaoi would lead him astray from his path of self - improvement.
In this fanfic, Naruto's character could develop in a way that is more focused on internal growth rather than external appearances. Without the whiskers, he may not have the same initial charm or the easy - to - recognize factor. So, he has to work on his personality and skills more. He might become more introspective, analyzing his actions and motives more deeply, which could lead to a more mature and well - rounded character.
His character would likely be more cautious. Ibiki's influence would instill a sense of wariness in Naruto. He might not be as impulsive as in the original story. For example, instead of rushing into battle head - first, he would assess the situation more carefully.