Kurogane Emoto

Kurogane Emoto is a shinobi of the Emoto Clan, in Konohagakure.

## Background

Kurogane came into the world as the child of Kyarō Hemmi and Shirogane Emoto, both deeply rooted in their clan's traditions. His father, skilled in the art of blacksmithing like many Emoto Clan members, crafted weapons of great quality. Meanwhile, his mother, a shinobi, carried the legacy of combat within her veins.

At the tender age of three, Kurogane welcomed a younger sibling, Akiku Emoto, into the family. However, tragedy struck when their mother lost her life during a mission. The loss was a heavy blow for the young family. Just two years later, when Kurogane was merely five and Akiku three, their father succumbed to a severe illness, leaving them orphaned.

In the wake of this heart-wrenching loss, Kurogane and Akiku found solace under the care of their uncle, Yūki Emoto, a respected member of the clan. He was not alone in this endeavor; his wife, Matsuka Hemmi, and the siblings grandparents, Kyarō Hemmi and Sayaka Iōta, played significant roles in shaping the lives of the young Emoto children. The two siblings become close to their two cousins because of this, Yūku and Yūko Emoto. Yūku was a few years older than Kurogane, whereas Yūko was the same age as Akiku.

Under the watchful eyes of their elders, Kurogane learned the virtues of discipline and hard work. Their grandparents, in particular, imparted crucial life lessons, emphasizing the importance of dedication and perseverance. Yūki, with his mastery in blacksmithing, became their first teacher, passing down not just the technical skills but also the rich heritage of the Emoto Clan. Together, their family provided a nurturing environment, ensuring that the legacy of their clan lived on through the resilient spirits of Kurogane and Akiku.

Following the common path of children in their village, Kurogane commenced his education at the academy when he reached the age of five. During his time there, he quickly embraced the opportunity to socialize and build connections, making numerous friends within the school community.

While not necessarily a prodigy, Kurogane distinguished himself through his determined efforts and dedication. His commitment to his studies was evident as he strived to excel in his academic pursuits, showcasing a strong work ethic and a thirst for knowledge. His journey in the academy was marked by consistent hard work and a genuine passion for learning, setting the foundation for his future endeavors.

### Genin

Kurogane graduated from the acadamy at the age of nine, and was put onto Team 1. This team included Sensei Kazukatsu Senju, a remarkable instructor whose lineage traced back to the iconic Hashirama Senju and Mito Uzumaki. Sensei Kazukatsu's instructional approach transcended the mere acquisition of combat skills; it encompassed the cultivation of unwavering loyalty and wholehearted devotion to the village.

Kurogane's follow students were Fugaku Uchiha and Tazunada Hagoromo. Fugaku hailed from the Uchiha Clan, renowned for their formidable Sharingan and mastery of fire-based jutsu. In contrast, Tazunada was the designated heir to the Hagoromo Clan, a lineage known for its unique kekkei genkai, Motsureotoru. This alliance between the Uchiha and Hagoromo Clans had spanned generations, their combined power forming an imposing force within the shinobi world.

Kurogane become worried that he wasn't good enough. His clan, celebrated for their expertise in weapon crafting rather than conventional shinobi arts, seemed an unconventional choice in the company of such prodigious clans as the Uchiha and Hagoromo. This disparity in backgrounds often left Kurogane feeling apprehensive about his role in the team.

Sensei Kazukatsu's teachings extended beyond the confines of combat strategy. He emphasized the recognition of each team member's unique strengths and the pivotal role they played within the group. Under his wise guidance, Kurogane gradually grasped the profound value of his clan's craftsmanship. He began to appreciate that his skills, while distinct from traditional shinobi abilities, held an indispensable place within the team's dynamic.

### Chūnin

Because of Kazukatsu, and Team 1's teamwork, Kurogane and the rest of his team were able to become a Chūnin at the age of eleven. It was time to specialise.

Kurogane's skills as a blacksmith developed, and he engaged in friendly competition with Rokuro Hiroshi, another skilled blacksmith. Their rivalry was legendary, pushing both to craft the finest weapons in the village. After Rokuro's passing, Kurogane humorously declared Rokuro's daughter, Yae Hiroshi, as his new rival, despite the fact she was seven. Yae surpassed Kurogane's skills as an adult and Kurogane was super proud.

### Jōnin

   At the age of thirteen, Kurogane and his fellow Team 1 members achieved the prestigious rank of Jōnin, marking the commencement of a new and challenging chapter in their lives. The advent of the Second Shinobi War soon followed, unleashing chaos and devastation across the land. Kurogane's role during the war was multifaceted; he displayed his leadership skills by leading waves, but he also contributed to the war effort as a skilled blacksmith, ensuring a steady supply of weapons for the conflict.

The aftermath of the war brought both joy and change to Kurogane's life. He found solace and love in the embrace of Fugaku, their relationship a source of emotional sanctuary amidst the post-war turmoil. Meanwhile, Kurogane's teammate, Tazunada, honored her betrothal by marrying Furuke in a grand ceremony that united the Uchiha and Hagoromo clans, solidifying her role as head of the Hagoromo clan. Her accomplishments made Kurogane immensely proud.

Kurogane was entrusted with his first Genin team, guiding them to success as Chūnin, marking the beginning of his long-standing streak of mentoring excellence. A new Genin team followed in quick succession, keeping him in the role of mentor for a few years longer. Throughout these years, his bond with Fugaku deepened as they navigated the complexities of the post-war era together.

At twenty-one, Fugaku's election as head of the Uchiha Clan significantly altered the dynamics of Kurogane and Fugaku's relationship. The need to maintain secrecy and Fugaku's eventual obligation to produce Uchiha heirs foreshadowed the end of their love affair. Amid these developments, Kurogane couldn't help but entertain Tazunada's humorous suggestion that he follow suit and become a clan head, a notion he playfully dismissed.

In the years that followed, Kurogane's life was illuminated by moments of happiness and celebration, stark contrasts to the tragedies of the past. Tazunada and Furuke, embracing the journey of parenthood, eagerly shared the news of Tazunada's pregnancy, sparking anticipation and joy within their circle. Upon the arrival of their first child, they named her Fugasako Hagoromo, a heartfelt tribute to their cherished friend, Fugaku, entwining threads of heritage and memory. Several years later, their family welcomed a son, Akegorou Hagoromo, honoring Furuke's comrade Akeharu Monya. Recognizing Kurogane's warmth and natural rapport with children, Tazunada and Furuke entrusted him with the role of godfather to all three of their beloved offspring.

Kurogane's reputation as a stern yet effective instructor grew during the turbulent times of the Third Shinobi War, making him a symbol of stability for his students. The war accelerated promotions and thrust young Genin into commanding roles, causing Kurogane to harbor unease about their well-being. The toll of the war became painfully evident as Kurogane attended the funerals of his fallen students. The loss of one student, in particular, weighed heavily on his heart, forcing him to confront the grim reality of their expendability in the face of war. Determined to protect his future students, even if it meant slowing their progression through the ranks, Kurogane made a solemn vow.

In the midst of the turmoil of the Third Shinobi War, Kurogane received devastating news from Fugaku about Tazunada's heroic sacrifice on the battlefield. This sacrifice, while noble, created a chasm between them as Fugaku, burdened by Uchiha traditions and obligations, distanced himself from Kurogane. Their relationship, once filled with warmth and camaraderie, came to an end, leaving Kurogane heartbroken yet understanding of Fugaku's responsibilities.

In the following months, Fugaku married Mikoto, an Uchiha woman, and together they welcomed two sons into the world, Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha. With Mikoto's permission, he assisted the young Uchiha brothers with basic training, and offered guidance and support to Itachi as he navigated the challenges of growing up in the shadows of war.

Despite receiving accolades for his role in hastening the deployment of the next generation of shinobi during the war, Kurogane viewed this recognition with mixed emotions. His return to the role of a Genin instructor was marked by the haunting memories of war and the sacrifices made by his students. The Fourth Hokage's changes in academy graduation age provided a fresh start, enabling Kurogane to focus on honing not only his students' combat skills but also on imparting the wisdom needed to navigate the intricate challenges of their world. In doing so, he hoped to spare them the pain he had witnessed, shaping a new generation of shinobi prepared for the complexities of life beyond the battlefield.

Some of Kurogane's most notible Teams are:

* Eigo Gyōtō, Atsuna Nara, and Erise Ammen (Current, 101AF-)
* Toki Senju, Miyuki Monya, Ume Sarutobi (89AF-91AF)
* Yuisa Uzumaki, Mikage Gekkō, Himie Hyūga (86AF-87AF)
* Mirei Togi, Shikaka Nara, Otomi Uchiha (First, 75AF-76AF)

At the age of thirty, Kurogane made a significant decision, choosing to marry his fellow blacksmith, Sayaka Gekkō. Their union, while rooted in friendship and mutual respect, proved to be beneficial for both, especially as they both desired to have children. Together, they welcomed three children into their lives. Their daughters, Sugane and Nezumi Emoto, both embraced the path of the shinobi, following in their parents' footsteps. In contrast, their son, Kaneomi Emoto, opted to continue the family legacy as a skilled blacksmith.

However, life took an unexpected turn after the birth of Nezumi. Sayaka found love anew in the arms of Inoyase Yamanaka. Kurogane, perceptive and understanding, noticed the blossoming romance and encouraged Sayaka to pursue her heart's desire. In a mature and amicable decision, the couple chose to part ways amicably, understanding that divorce wouldn't sever their deep bond. Instead, they chose to co-parent their children and remained steadfast friends.

Sayaka and Inoyase's relationship flourished, leading to their marriage when Nezumi was two years old. Together, they welcomed three children, Inoaka, Inoao and Inoami Yamanaka, into their family. Kurogane gracefully transitioned into the role of an uncle, fostering a warm relationship with his former wife's new family. Despite the changes, he stayed remarkably close to Sayaka, demonstrating the enduring strength of their friendship and mutual respect, even in the face of shifting dynamics.

The Uchiha Downfall, a tragedy orchestrated by the hand of Itachi Uchiha, struck the Uchiha clan like a devastating tempest when Kurogane reached the age of forty-one. It was an event of unimaginable horror, rendering the Uchiha community to haunting silence. In its merciless wake, only two Uchiha were left standing: Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha. The massacre claimed the lives of prominent clan members like Fugaku, Mikoto, as well as Furuke, all of whom held profound places in Kurogane's heart. Grief consumed him, especially for his close friends, and the loss of Itachi, whom he had watched grow from a boy into a tragic figure.

Amidst the overwhelming grief, Kurogane embraced the weighty responsibility of caring for the surviving children of Tazunada and Furuke, Fugasako and Akegorou Hagoromo, aged fifteen and eleven, respectively. As their godfather, he became their sanctuary, offering solace and unwavering support to these young souls who had tragically lost their parents.

Meanwhile, Sasuke Uchiha, a mere eight-year-old, bore witness to the horrific massacre that befell his clan. Seeking refuge, he was taken in by his closest living relative, Kenta Inuzuka, the father of his cousins. Struggling to adjust in the Inuzuka household due to conflicts with Kenta's wife and children, Sasuke turned to Kurogane, hoping he could be his guardian too. Seeing the echoes of Fugaku in Sasuke, Kurogane believed it was best for Sasuke to stay with his cousins, despite the reluctant understanding in his heart.

## Personality

Kurogane possesses a stern and disciplined demeanor, a reflection of his unwavering dedication to his duties and the village he serves. His protective nature extends beyond mere duty; it's a core aspect of his personality, driving him to shield not only his students but also those he cares about from harm. He is deeply loyal, valuing his relationships with a fierce intensity. Despite his intimidating exterior, he is a skilled teacher, imparting his knowledge with dedication and precision, and his strong work ethic is unmatched.

However, Kurogane bears the burden of regret, haunted by the losses he has suffered, particularly the students he couldn't protect during the war. His overprotectiveness, born from this regret, often leads him to shield his charges perhaps a little too zealously. This sense of regret has made him introverted, finding solace in quiet moments of meditation and reflection. In the tranquility of these moments, he finds his sense of purpose, which he fears losing above all else.

## Appearance

Kurogane cuts an imposing figure, standing tall at 185cm with a beefy physique that exudes strength and resilience. His rugged appearance is marked by a distinctive scar on his left forearm, a testament to his early years as a ninja and the challenges he faced. His dirty blonde hair is cropped short at the sides, with bangs falling slightly over his navy forehead protector, emphasizing his piercing blue eyes that hold a depth of experience. One of his most cherished accessories is a pendant bearing the symbol of the Village Hidden in the Leaves, a precious gift from his sensei upon achieving the esteemed rank of Jōnin. His attire, a modified Jōnin outfit, is not just a uniform but a reflection of his practicality and preparedness, featuring additional pockets for strategic storage and a slightly darker hue that resonates with his enigmatic persona.

## Abilities

Kurogane is not only a highly skilled blacksmith but a true artisan of metalwork. His craftsmanship is renowned, creating weapons and tools of exceptional quality. His keen eye for detail and deep understanding of metallurgy allow him to forge blades with superior sharpness and durability. This talent not only aids him in personal weapon maintenance but also contributes significantly to the village's arsenal, providing Konohagakure's shinobi with top-tier weaponry.

Kurogane possesses unparalleled skill in the art of swordsmanship, primarily wielding the ninjatō with remarkable precision and finesse. While he occasionally utilizes the tantō, his mastery lies in the swift strikes and calculated moves of the ninjatō, making him a formidable opponent in close combat situations. His techniques are honed to perfection through years of practice and real combat experience, allowing him to seamlessly blend offense and defense, adapting his style to various adversaries.

Kurogane possesses a strategic and analytical mindset, enabling him to assess complex situations swiftly and devise effective plans. His tactical acumen is highly regarded, making him a valuable asset in battle and a respected advisor in strategic discussions. His ability to foresee enemy movements and formulate counter-strategies has saved countless lives on the battlefield, earning him the admiration of his peers.

Kurogane excels in collaborative efforts, understanding the significance of teamwork in achieving victory. He seamlessly integrates his skills with those of his teammates, maximizing their collective potential. His adaptability and ability to synchronize his techniques with others make him an ideal team player, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion within his squad.

Kurogane's expertise extends beyond combat; he is a highly proficient teacher. His teaching methods are grounded in patience and encouragement, guiding his students to unlock their full potential. Through tailored instruction and constructive feedback, he nurtures the talents of the next generation, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the shinobi world.

Kurogane's unwavering dedication and diligence are the cornerstone of his success. He approaches every task with determination, investing considerable effort to achieve excellence. His relentless work ethic not only motivates those around him but also sets a high standard for his students and colleagues.

Kurogane's leadership qualities are evident in his ability to inspire, guide, and protect his team. He leads by example, displaying courage, integrity, and compassion. Under his guidance, his squad members flourish, bolstered by his guidance and mentorship. His calm demeanor under pressure and decisive decision-making instill confidence in his team, ensuring they operate at their best even in the most challenging circumstances.

Kurogane possesses a versatile range of nature transformations, including Fire (his primary affinity), Wind, Earth, Lightning, and Yin. His adeptness in these elemental manipulations grants him a diverse array of offensive and defensive jutsu. Additionally, he has a limited proficiency in Yin-based techniques, allowing him to perform basic healing and genjutsu, showcasing his well-rounded expertise in various ninja arts.

## Trivia

* Favourites:
	+ Food: Grilled fish and vegetables
	+ Colour: Green
	+ Season: Spring
	+ Time of Day: Mid-day
	+ Weather: Clear Skies
	+ Flower: Yarrow
	+ Animal: Turtles
* Kurogane holds the record of the most students
* "To protect and guide my students on the path of honour and strength."