Obviously, Naruto would be one of the main characters, just in his new 'dark lord' role. Sasuke could also be a major character, as his relationship with Naruto is so central in the original series. Their dynamic would likely be very different in this fanfiction, perhaps becoming more of an adversarial relationship.
I think characters like Kakashi and Sakura would still be important. Kakashi might be conflicted about Naruto's transformation and try to bring him back to the light. Sakura, on the other hand, could be either a fierce opponent of Naruto if she sees him as a threat to the world she loves, or she might try to understand what led him down this dark path and attempt to save him. And there could be new characters introduced as well, who are drawn to Naruto's new dark power.
Another possible main character could be an antagonist who rises to oppose Naruto's dark rule. This could be someone who was previously in the shadows or a character we already know who takes on a new role. For example, a minor clan member who decides to gather a resistance against Naruto. Also, characters like the tailed beasts might play a crucial role. Since Naruto has a connection to them, his transformation into a dark lord could have a significant impact on their relationship with him, and they could either be forced to serve him or fight against him.
In a 'the dark lord novel', the main characters could be the dark lord, who is the source of the conflict. There might be a young and inexperienced protagonist who discovers the threat of the dark lord and decides to fight against him. There could also be side characters like the dark lord's minions, who add to the complexity of the story. For instance, the minions could have their own motives and loyalties that are not always straightforward. And perhaps there is an old and wise mentor figure who guides the hero in the fight against the dark lord.
Apart from the dark lord, there are often heroes in 'dark lord stories'. These heroes are brave and determined to stop the dark lord's evil plans. Sometimes there are also side characters like the dark lord's minions or wise old sages who give advice to the heroes.
The dark lord himself is obviously a main character. There may also be a young hero or heroine who stands against him.
Obviously, Naruto himself is the central character in 'dark lord Naruto fanfic'. He undergoes a transformation from the bright - eyed hero - in - the - making to a dark and powerful figure.
The main character is Naruto for sure. But in a 'naruto the time lord fanfiction', there may be characters who are guardians of time or from other time - related dimensions. These could be new characters introduced specifically for this fanfiction. And of course, Naruto's friends and foes from the original Naruto series would likely play important roles as well. For instance, Kakashi might be involved in helping Naruto understand and control his new time - lord - like powers, or Orochimaru could be after those powers for his own evil purposes.
In the 'naruto pirate lord fanfiction', Naruto is the main character. He is likely to be joined by characters like Sakura, who could provide medical support in the pirate adventures. There may also be some powerful pirate lords who serve as the main antagonists. These pirate lords would have their own motives and goals, like controlling the most valuable trade routes or finding a legendary treasure. And Naruto would have to face them, using his ninja skills and his new - found knowledge of the pirate world.
It could also introduce new characters. Maybe there are powerful demons or spirits that Naruto has to deal with. These could be main characters in the sense that they drive the conflict. For example, a powerful demon who wants to overthrow Naruto's rule over the pandemonium realm.
In addition to the well - known Naruto characters, there could be some characters from the darker corners of the Naruto universe. For example, Orochimaru might play a more significant role, either trying to manipulate Naruto's new power for his own gain or being forced to team up with Naruto against a greater evil that is emerging due to the awakening of the 'Lord of Darkness' power.
Obviously Naruto would be one of the main characters since it's in his name. But there could also be characters like Sakura who might be involved in Naruto's journey with his new nature - related powers. Maybe she helps him control or understand his powers better. Also, Sasuke could be there, perhaps as a rival or an ally in different situations related to Naruto's 'Lord of Nature' status.
There could also be some original characters created specifically for this fanfiction. For example, a powerful ninja who has knowledge about the merge process and tries to either help or hinder Naruto. Or perhaps an ancient spirit that was somehow involved in the creation of Dark Naruto in the first place and now has an interest in the merge.