Kyō Shiranui recurs throughout the Hakuoki narrative as an antagonist. He displays long blue hair tied in a ponytail, violet eyes, visible tattoos, and olive skin. His personality merges overconfidence, rudeness, and a cruel enjoyment of conflict; he fights for pleasure or hire. He favors modern weaponry, notably brandishing a handgun alongside traditional swordsmanship, reflecting his attraction to novelty. Aligned against the Shinsengumi, he is hired by the Choshu domain to attack them. His associations extend to the demon world, frequently operating alongside or under Chikage Kazama and other demons like Kyūju Amagiri. This connection places him within the broader supernatural conflict intersecting the historical Bakumatsu period. Within Kazama's group, he aids their objectives concerning Chizuru Yukimura and disrupting the Shinsengumi. His narrative role enables significant plot developments through violence or strategic interference. During Warrior Spirit of the Blue Sky, he actively assists Sanosuke Harada by creating a diversion against a Fury army, facilitating Chizuru's escape yet contributing to Harada's demise. He exhibits a cynical, mocking demeanor, often intruding on emotional moments between other characters with crude commentary. His combat style integrates his firearm with physical prowess, making him a persistent threat in skirmishes. The name "Hakuoki" (Demon of the Fleeting Blossom) is later bestowed upon Toshizō Hijikata by Kazama following their duel, indirectly linking Shiranui's faction to this title. While not central, his presence consistently signals danger, challenges for protagonists, and reinforcement of darker, supernatural elements. Information regarding extensive background, development, or specific spin-off appearances beyond his established antagonistic role and affiliations is not detailed.