  Recent advances using Density Functional Theory (DFT) to augment Multiplet
Ligand Field Theory (MLFT) have led to ab-initio calculations of many formerly
empirical parameters. This development makes MLFT more predictive instead of
interpretive, thus improving its value for understanding highly correlated 3d,
4d, and f-electron systems. Here, we explore a DFT + MLFT based approach for
core-to-core K{\alpha} x-ray emission spectra (XES) and evaluate its
performance for a range of transition metal systems. We find good agreement
between theory and experiment, as well as the ability to capture key spectral
trends related to spin and oxidation state. We also discuss limitations of the
model in the context of the remaining free parameters and suggest directions
forward.
