Hasegawa Kuragari (M)

# Hasegawa Kuragari

> The times where you are at your strongest, is the time where you are also the most vulnerable. Whatever you do you will always have enemies. In this world there are always people out there waiting for to get their hands on what you have
>
> Kuragari, "Battle to the strong"

**Kuragari** is one of the main characters of Fading Stars, someone that was once called ‘emotionless’ as he wasn’t able to express them, was changed overtime thanks to the help and time spent together with *Kyoko*. He appears to be nonchalant and cynical around the people he meets but deep down that mask not only hides a kind hearted person, but also the dark past that he tries to run away from. He is skilled not only in Swordplay he is also able to hold himself in hand to hand combat due to the trainings from *Zenith*.

## Appearance

Kuragari presents himself as a youthful individual, seemingly in the age range of 17 to 19. His physical attributes, including age and height, remain fluid, subject to his preferences. However, his height is confirmed at 169cm in his 18-year-old semblance. His appearance boasts short, dark black hair that bears red tips, complemented by striking crimson red eyes. These eyes emit a subtle radiance, resembling cogwheels found within timepieces, particularly when he engages his eyesight or time manipulation skills.

His attire often consists of a light black tracksuit that he pairs with practical brown running shoes. On missions designated by the Elementals, he transforms into a figure of formality, donning a black suit coupled with a vibrant midnight tie. Noteworthy accessories include a ring akin to Kyoko's, adorned on his left ring finger, and at times, the Forbidden Library's necklace gracing his neck.

A curious detail emerges when it comes to his combat style. Despite his right-handedness, he summons and wields his katana with a unique arrangement—sheathed on his right side. This peculiar choice communicates his intent; he prioritizes obedience over conflict. Should resistance emerge from adversaries, he employs an agile maneuver: a fluid spin of his katana to his left hand, the blade unsheathed, held deftly by his right hand while the scabbard remains in the other. The scabbard itself boasts a dark black hue, in harmonious contrast to the blade's radiant blue glow and intricate golden handguard.

During his period as a demi-human, Kuragari takes to wearing glasses. These lenses grant him the capability to perceive the world through human-like vision, a compromise to counteract his inability to regulate his formidable Eye of Umbra. This particular ability furnishes him with an almost overwhelming level of detail, a boon tempered by its energy-draining effects.

## Personality

### Before

Kuragari used to be reserved and silent, preferably only to speak when spoken to or when words are needed to be said. He says that he does not try to get involved in situations and although he doesn't admit it, he gets himself involved in situations or fights as long as it is justifiable to him. It is seen that he has lots of monologues, but he barely speaks his thoughts, but when he does he speaks in a slow, emphatic manner that gives authority to his words. He is also humble, not hesitating to admit his failures and also shows great deal of respect towards enemies that dare challenge him or rival against him. (In later chapters he bows in front of a *Glitcher* *Hunter*, respecting his bravery and the amount of time he has spent hunting down rogue Glitchers alone, even at the age of 58). His thinking process contains nothing more than harsh truth and logic, he wants to live, more than anything, this allows him quickly make harsh decisions that can put others lives in danger, though he tries to avoid this, if left with no choice, civilians lives no longer matter to him either, even those close to him. This does not necessarily mean that he's a cold individual, as he is seen to show something of warmth towards his apprentice, Fujimori Kaori and former friend, Nagasawa Yuriko.

### After

In later chapters Kuragari undergoes drastic personality change, he appears happy most of the time, always wearing a faint smile or grin on his face when he spends time with Kyoko. Not only that, but he can also be mischievous, going as far as to mess around with Kyoko to gauge her reactions and taunting his enemies. Despite having somewhat of a carefree personality, it has been proven that he can be very serious when the situation requires it. His moral code is as complex as his older self's, but he shows more compassion and warmth towards others than he used to. He is determined to discover his origin and become a new person, aiming to live a normal human life. He prefers to keep his dark past hidden and buried deep in his memories. However, his expression and attitude can change rapidly if his past is ever mentioned.