Chapter 7: The Village
The next day, Kohana found herself staring at a rather busty woman, whom she immediately recognized as Tsunade Senju, one of the Legendary Sannin. Behind her stood the two elders, a black haired woman whom she did not know, and Kakashi. Her eyes easily passed over him and focused on the blonde woman before her.
"Kohana", the Hokage greeted.
Kohana nodded, "Tsunade-sama."
The Hokage's eyes grew serious, "What happened, Kohana?"
The girl's eyes went downcast. "Everything was unexpected. As you know, the village was small and peaceful, located far from Shinobi land. Then, starting from a year ago, strange disappearances occurred. Small children and young fathers went missing. It was horrible – families were torn apart. But, the disappearances were too strategic and they always seemed due to natural causes, occurring only when there were inclement weather conditions. We never thought anything of it."
She paused, clenching her eyes shut. "I should have known and I should have been more vigilant. But, storms were not uncommon there. Then, suddenly few weeks ago, we were attacked. We stood no chance; I didn't expect to live. Orochimaru's henchmen had destroyed every household ruthlessly. I took several small children with me and hid in a dilapidated building, but…"
At this point, Kohana was gasping for air, sobs racking her small figure.
Kakashi stepped forward to stop the interrogation, but Tsunade held her hands up.
"Let her finish, Kakashi.", she said softly.
Kohana took a deep breath and continued, "They mur-murdered them in front of me. They then told me they were going to take me as hostage, and knocked me out. When I woke up, I was with Kabuto."
She looked up at the Hokage with frightened eyes, "I – I don't understand, Tsunade-sama. I'm just a normal civilian, and I should have died."
Tsunade looked at her sadly, and decided to end her questioning. But, Koharu stepped forward, her eyes shrewd. "Girl, tell me what happened at Orochimaru's hideout."
The Hokage hissed, "Now, that's enough! Let her rest."
The elder shook her head, "We need to know Tsunade-hime. The more intel we have on Orochimaru, the better. This girl has had access to his secrets and lived to tell the tale. We are fortunate to have her."
Kakashi frowned, "If you want intel, then send me out. There's no need to force her to relive that."
"It's not becoming of you to be so sympathetic, Hatake-san. Perhaps, you have forgotten that I have the power to override the Hokage's decision."
Koharu then looked at the girl and ordered her, "Tell us."
Kohana scrunched her forehead, her voice small, but defiant, "I was unconscious for most of it. He tortured me and injected me several times. I felt weak, tired, as if he was draining me of my Chakra. I asked him so many times, but he wouldn't tell me anything. I didn't see anyone and was kept alone in a cell."
Koharu sighed, "I see. Come on Homura, let us go." The two elders left the room and Kohana stared at them with disbelief. She muttered, "I never liked them."
Tsunade sighed, "Never mind them. I'll deal with it. Kohana, Kabuto poisoned you repeatedly and your body is still recovering from that. Your muscle movement will be limited for some time; I will assign someone to help you with physical therapy."
Kohana nodded in understanding.
The Hokage looked back towards Kakashi, "Kakashi. I need to have a word with you."
The shinobi nodded, "Hai. I'll meet you outside." He then bid Kohana a silent goodbye and departed.
"She must not know about her Chakra, Kakashi. It's best to keep her in the dark."
Kakashi nodded, "Hai. I'll inform Naruto, Sakura and Sai as well."
"Good. I also want you to keep an eye on her."
Kakashi hesitated, "Do you think I would be the best one for the job?"
Tsunade smiled, "Hai. I trust you to keep her safe."