Kyo Shiranui is a demon allied with the Chōshū domain against the Shinsengumi. He possesses a flippant and proud personality, proudly referring to himself as "ore-sama." While he often asserts demon superiority based on physical power, he does not universally disdain humans, a perspective rooted in his deep respect for his close human friend, the warrior Takasugi Shinsaku. Following Takasugi's death from tuberculosis, Shiranui continued fighting for the Chōshū cause solely in his friend's honor, prioritizing loyalty to Takasugi's memory over broader racial allegiances. As head of the Shiranui demon clan, he maintains independence in his alliances. Though other demons cite historical clan debts to Chōshū dating back to Sekigahara, Shiranui consistently attributes his service only to his bond with Takasugi, rejecting any sense of obligation. He has little tolerance for narrow-mindedness or stubbornness, instead appreciating individuals who grasp larger strategic contexts, regardless of race. This trait fuels his strained relationship with fellow demon Chikage Kazama, whom he openly dislikes and refers to with derision. Despite this animosity, pragmatic concerns about domain alliances sometimes force their cooperation. Shiranui actively seeks entertainment through conflict and provocation. He deliberately prolongs fights for amusement, using firearms instead of relying solely on his demonic abilities. He rationalizes this as encouraging human adversaries to adapt to modern warfare, aligning with Takasugi's legacy, though he also admits to doing it purely for personal enjoyment. This tendency manifests in his persistent rivalry with Shinsengumi member Sanosuke Harada, repeatedly seeking duels across multiple storylines with the declared intent to "fight until one of us dies." Their confrontations occur during various encounters, including covering retreats at Nijo Castle and raids on the Shinsengumi compound. His actions reveal layered motivations. He will intervene against shared enemies like the Rasetsu (Furies) even when aiding adversaries, showing personal conflicts can be overridden. During the Battle of Toba-Fushimi, he confronted Chizuru Yukimura to emphasize her demon heritage and alienate her from the Shinsengumi. In some narrative paths, he shot her to provoke recognition of her non-human nature, though he refrained in others due to the rarity of female demons. His involvement varies: in Kazama's route, he delivered news of Harada's death at Ueno and later returned Harada's spear to Chizuru in Aizu, acknowledging Harada as "one of the bravest, most ferocious warriors" he encountered, demonstrating respect for worthy opponents despite enmity. In later narratives like "Ginsei no Shou," Shiranui visited Chizuru and Harada abroad, sent by Senhime to check on their wellbeing. He informed them of political pardons in Japan enabling Harada's safe return. Discovering their child, he expressed surprise and amusement, noting the rarity of demon births and explaining this leads demons to be particularly attentive toward young ones. He interacted playfully with their son, teasing Harada about the child's superior personality. Before departing, he admitted concern for their welfare, signaling an evolved rapport with former adversaries, illustrating a shift from antagonism to reluctant camaraderie.

Titles

Kyo Shiranui

Guest