Sakura could be one of the main characters. She has a long - standing relationship with Naruto and might play a role in convincing him to return. Maybe she tells him about the state of the village's hospital or how his friends miss him.
The Hokage at the time, whether it's Kakashi or someone else, would surely be involved. They would be the ones officially representing Konoha in begging Naruto to return. They could talk about the political and strategic importance of Naruto's return for the village's stability and growth.
One possible reason could be that Naruto is extremely powerful and his skills are needed to protect Konoha from a new and powerful threat. His combat abilities, like his Rasengan and Sage Mode, are crucial for the village's defense.
Obviously Naruto himself is the main character as the story is about him fleeing Konoha. Sasuke could also be involved. He might be the reason Naruto flees, like if Sasuke is being manipulated by an enemy and Naruto has to leave to save him. Or he could be chasing after Naruto, thinking Naruto has gone rogue.
Obviously Naruto is the main character as he is the one usually pulling the pranks. His friends like Shikamaru might also be involved, either as victims of the pranks or as accomplices. Sakura could be in there too, perhaps getting annoyed at Naruto's pranks or being part of a prank on someone else.
In this fanfiction, Naruto is the key figure. However, characters like Shikamaru, who is known for his intelligence, might also be involved. He could be helping to plan Naruto's welcome or dealing with any potential issues that Naruto's return might bring. Also, Hinata, given her relationship with Naruto, would surely be part of the story. And the elders of the village may also play a role, as they often have a say in important matters regarding the village and its shinobi.
Obviously, Naruto himself would be a main character. His friends like Sasuke and Sakura are also likely to be important. Maybe their children could also play significant roles as they grow up in the post - return to Konoha era.
Gaara could be one of the characters. He has a bond with Naruto and if Naruto is against Konoha, Gaara might get involved to help Naruto or at least try to mediate. Shikamaru is another likely character. His intelligence would make him a key figure in trying to understand Naruto's motives and also in devising strategies for Konoha. Hinata might be involved as well, because of her feelings for Naruto. She might try to protect Naruto from Konoha's attacks.
Obviously, Naruto is the central character. But often, his friends like Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi are also involved. Sasuke might be there to have some sort of reunion or conflict with Naruto. Sakura could be the one to heal Naruto if he comes back injured. And Kakashi, as Naruto's former teacher, would be there to welcome him back or assess his new abilities.
One possible reason could be a new threat to Konoha that only Naruto has the power to face. For example, a powerful enemy has emerged and the village elders believe Naruto's strength is essential for the village's defense.
It could be the village elders. They often make decisions for the benefit of the village as they see it. They might think Naruto is needed back in Konoha to deal with potential threats or to boost the morale of the villagers.
The village elders are very likely to be involved. They often have a say in the big decisions in Konoha. They might be the ones who decide that Naruto must return for the safety or the benefit of the village. Tsunade could also be a part of it. If she's still in charge, she might be in a difficult position of having to order Naruto back or deal with the consequences of his forced return.