Kogoro Katsura leads the Choshu faction in opposition to the shogunate during the Bakumatsu period. Sent to live with other families as a child, he mastered practical skills such as cooking and cleaning, cultivating both a refined demeanor and a tactical intellect. His strategies rely on pragmatism, from spreading calculated rumors to orchestrating an infiltration of a red-light district disguised as a geisha. There, he confronted an imposter exploiting his name to massacre innocents in a bid to eliminate spies—a plan Katsura thwarted by collaborating with the substitute Shinsengumi.

Though he regards the substitute Shinsengumi as rivals, Katsura acknowledges overlapping ambitions, notably opposing the Masked Demons. He forged a tactical alliance with Akira, a member of the group, driven by shared objectives and a personal respect for her prowess, intellect, and presence. His leadership balances charisma with calculated ruthlessness, chastising Choshu spies who act independently without grasping political complexities, denouncing their alliances with extremist factions like the Masked Demons. He distrusts the latter, accusing them of manipulating allies such as the Sonnou Joui faction for self-serving ends.

Katsura’s striking appearance—gray hair tied in a ponytail, golden eyes, and a distinctive mole—complements his traditional hakama and kimono, symbols of his status. Each decision underscores his dedication to forging Japan’s future through strategic alliances and unwavering principles.