Root

Biodata

Background and Activities

Following the destruction of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, Shimura Danzō demanded that Aragaki Yasushi be transferred into Root, arguing that only Root could fully realize his value. Sarutobi Hiruzen refused, stating that Yasushi was the village's future and should not remain in Root's “darkness.” 31

After failing to acquire Yasushi, Danzō attempted to recruit Kakashi Hatake instead, intending to train him into a blade for Root. Hiruzen rejected this request as well, citing Minato and Kushina's opposition and the Uchiha Clan's likely response to Kakashi's Sharingan entering Root's possession. 32

During Yugito's escort back to Konoha, Root operatives wearing Anbu uniforms presented transfer orders bearing the Hokage's seal and attempted to take custody of the Two-Tails jinchūriki. Aragaki Yasushi refused the handover after his mission remained incomplete, then reported that the orders had been forged. Hiruzen condemned Danzō's attempt to seize Yugito. 86 87

Operations and Methods

• Operates in secrecy; Danzō specifically describes Root as separate from ordinary recruits and seeks exceptional shinobi for its ranks. 31
• Attempts to recruit high-value ninja through promises of training, resources, and command positions. 31 32 86
• Uses personnel dressed in Anbu uniforms during sensitive operations, including the attempted seizure of Yugito near the Hokage Building. 86
• Was willing to use falsified transfer orders carrying the Hokage's seal to claim custody of the Two-Tails jinchūriki. 86 87

Known Personnel

• Shimura Danzō — Root's controlling figure; repeatedly seeks to expand the organization by recruiting Aragaki Yasushi and Kakashi. 31 32 86
• Unnamed Root operatives — Attempted to take Yugito from Aragaki Yasushi's Anbu squad using purported Hokage transfer orders. 86

Relationships

• Shimura Danzō — Root's leader and primary recruiter; offers Aragaki Yasushi the position of Root squad captain. 31 86
• Sarutobi Hiruzen — Political opponent; Hiruzen refuses to surrender Yasushi or Kakashi to Root and denounces Danzō's attempt to seize Yugito. 31 32 86
• Aragaki Yasushi — Recruitment target who rejects Root twice and threatens Root personnel obstructing his Hokage-authorized mission. 31 86
• Kakashi Hatake — Proposed recruitment target after Danzō fails to obtain Yasushi. 32
• Yugito — Intended custody target during Root's attempted interception of her return to Konoha. 86

Notable Quotes

“Root doesn't take just any stray cat or dog.” — Shimura Danzō 31

“And the future of the village should not dwell in the darkness of Root; it should bathe in the sunlight so that it may grow strong and healthy.” — Sarutobi Hiruzen 31