Root Reorganization

Fugaku shook his head. "This person never reveals himself. Even Fujiwara Nari doesn't know who he is. I'd guess his identity is a secret even within Kirigakure.

"Only the Third Mizukage and a few senior officials know who he is. But since he can add an entire service record for a ninja out of thin air, he must work in the Intelligence Department or handle ninja records at the Hokage Building.

"We could station a few Hyuga ninja in both places. Before and after work, they could keep a close watch on the staff and wait for him to slip up."

"That may be our only option. If he's managed to enter such a critical department in Konoha, he won't expose himself easily."

The Third Hokage's expression turned grave. "I never expected so many spies to have slipped in. Some were even Konoha shinobi who'd been bought by other nations and were colluding with their spies. After more than a year without Root watching from the shadows, Konoha has fallen far behind in counterintelligence. We hardly have any secrets left."

"You mean to rebuild Root, Hokage?"

The Third Hokage considered it. "I'll think about it."

Fugaku offered no opinion on whether Root should be rebuilt. Given the Third Hokage's way of doing things and his relationship with Danzo, an outsider would have little influence over his decision.

"Hokage, what should we do with the nine spies we identified?"

"For now, don't let word get out," the Third Hokage said. "I'll have them and the people behind them rounded up in one sweep. Then we'll examine their memories for anything important.

"I'll also order ANBU to disguise themselves as the nine and continue taking missions around the village. Any spies we missed may try to contact them."

Fugaku nodded and said