The orphans themselves would be main characters. Each one could have their own backstory and personality. Some might be shy, while others could be more outgoing. They would be the ones directly affected by Naruto's care and teachings.
The other members of Naruto's team, like Sasuke and Sakura, might also play significant roles. Sasuke could use his skills to train the more advanced orphans in combat techniques, and Sakura could use her medical knowledge to keep everyone healthy. And they could all contribute to the overall positive atmosphere of the orphanage.
There could be some original Asian - inspired characters. For example, a young martial artist from a small village in China who Naruto takes under his wing. This character could be eager to learn from Naruto and would be one of the main focuses as he grows under Naruto's guidance.
Maybe Rock Lee could be an important character. He could come to the orphanage to help with the physical training of the orphans. He would be a great inspiration for them with his hard - working attitude. Also, Neji could be involved. He could use his Byakugan to keep an eye on the orphanage and make sure there are no threats approaching.
Well, one possibility is that Naruto uses his own experiences as an orphan to create a warm and supportive environment in the orphanage. He might teach the kids ninjutsu skills and also important life lessons about friendship and perseverance.
Another character could be Kakashi. As Naruto's former teacher, he has a lot of wisdom. When Naruto tells him about the future he's seen, Kakashi could offer strategic advice on how to prevent the negative events from occurring. He could also help Naruto understand the possible consequences of their actions to change the future.
Another character could be Kakashi. He might be the one who doubts the decision to send Naruto to the mental hospital. He could secretly visit Naruto and try to train him in mental fortitude techniques so that he can get out of the hospital sooner.
There could be Sasuke. Since Naruto's situation changes, Sasuke might play a different role in this fanfic, either as an ally or a rival in a new way. Another might be Kakashi. He could be the one guiding Naruto through his discovery of being the son of chaos.
Kushina could be an important character even though she's dead in the original story. In this fanfic, her spirit or memories could play a role in Naruto's upbringing. For example, Minato could tell Naruto stories about Kushina's feisty personality and her love for the village.
Hinata is also a likely main character. In the original story, Hinata has a crush on Naruto. With Naruto being a smooth operator, he might notice Hinata's feelings more easily and their relationship could develop in a more romantic and interesting way. Kakashi could also be involved. Naruto could use his smoothness to learn new jutsu from Kakashi more effectively or to get Kakashi to trust him with more important missions.
It's also possible that some of Salem's minions play important roles. They could be constantly testing Naruto's loyalty to Salem. Characters like the Grimm could also be prominent, and Naruto might have to find ways to deal with them while working for Salem.
The main character is Naruto for sure. As for the orphans, they could be a diverse group with different personalities and backstories. Some might be shy, some brave. And there could be an older orphan who becomes Naruto's right - hand in looking after the others. Also, if there are any antagonists, they could be people who try to take advantage of the orphanage or its resources, and Naruto has to stop them.