It should also have an engaging plot. Maybe it involves a mystery that only they can solve together because of Naruto's ability to find clues in unexpected ways and Shikamaru's ability to piece them together. The setting should be well - described, whether it's the streets of Konoha or a far - off land they travel to. And the dialogue between them should be natural, like real friends talking, with Naruto's exuberant speech and Shikamaru's more measured responses.
The plot might also focus on their daily lives in the village. They could be shown hanging out, sharing their dreams and fears. Naruto might talk about his goal to become Hokage and Shikamaru could share his concerns about the responsibilities that come with being in the shinobi world. They could also get into friendly competitions like a race across the rooftops of the village, with Naruto using his speed and Shikamaru using his intelligence to find shortcuts.
One great storyline could be them going on a mission together that requires both Naruto's impulsiveness and Shikamaru's strategic thinking. For example, they are sent to a village where there's a mystery involving missing ninjas. Naruto wants to rush in and fight, but Shikamaru devises a plan to gather intel first. They work together, with Naruto providing the distraction when needed and Shikamaru setting up traps. In the end, they solve the mystery and strengthen their friendship through mutual respect for each other's skills.
One possible plot could be that Naruto and Shikamaru go on a mission together in a forest. They face various challenges like tricky traps set by the enemy. Shikamaru uses his intelligence to figure out how to avoid the traps while Naruto uses his strength and determination to fight off any attackers. Their friendship deepens as they rely on each other's skills to complete the mission successfully.
There could be a power - hungry shinobi within Konoha itself. He is jealous of the bond between Naruto and Shikamaru and how they are getting stronger together. So, he tries to set them up, making it seem like they are betraying the village. He wants to break their friendship and take their place as a respected ninja in the village.
They also support each other in a more emotional way. When Naruto is doubting himself because of the pressure of being the hero of the village, Shikamaru is there to remind him of all his achievements and how much the village actually needs him. And when Shikamaru is feeling lazy or unmotivated, Naruto drags him out of his slump by getting him excited about a new challenge or opportunity in the village.
One great 'Naruto and Shikamaru fanfic' is 'A Bond Beyond Duty'. It delves into their friendship in a really interesting way. It shows how Shikamaru's intelligence complements Naruto's determination. They go on a mission together that wasn't in the original story and face challenges that test their bond. It has great character development and keeps you hooked from start to finish.
One great 'Naruto Shikamaru fanfiction' is 'A Different Path'. It offers a unique take on Shikamaru's character development, showing his growth in ways not fully explored in the original series. The plot is engaging and the author does a wonderful job of staying true to the Naruto universe while adding their own creative twists.
One possibility for a Naruto and Itachi best friends fanfic could be that Itachi, instead of massacring his clan, finds a way to resolve the conflict with the help of Naruto. Naruto, with his unwavering belief in friendship, could convince the Uchiha clan and the village elders to come to a peaceful agreement. Itachi, seeing Naruto's positive influence, becomes his close friend. They could then train together, with Itachi teaching Naruto some of the more advanced Uchiha jutsu, and Naruto in turn sharing his own unique ninja way with Itachi.
When Naruto is feeling down because of his past, Shikamaru would be there to listen. He might not say much, but just his presence would be a comfort. And when Shikamaru is stressed about a difficult decision, Naruto's belief in him would give him the confidence to make the right choice. They also support each other in battles. Naruto can be the distraction while Shikamaru sets up his attack from a hidden position.