Kasumi Umetsuki, whose real name is Makoto Akizuki, lives as a haiku poet during Japan's Bakumatsu period. He first seeks refuge from his perceived fate through a hedonistic existence until his path crosses the Dragon Flash group and a young woman named Mana. This encounter sparks profound change, shifting him from aimlessness to purpose fueled by deepening feelings for Mana and an acceptance of duty. His haiku channel supernatural forces, allowing predictions of future events and influence over outcomes, a power intrinsically linked to his emotional state and artistic expression. His journey forces a reckoning with past avoidance of destiny, leading him to embrace a life dedicated to safeguarding others, especially Mana. This bond acts as the catalyst, steering him from fleeting indulgences toward commitment and sacrifice.

Kasumi Yoshizawa is a nationally recognized rhythmic gymnast and first-year student who transfers into Shujin Academy. She joins the Phantom Thieves, a group reforming corrupt adults by navigating metaphysical realms reflecting distorted desires. Within one such realm, mirroring Bakumatsu-era Japan under the watch of a ruler named Yoshiki, she undertakes missions to free oppressed citizens. She fights using the persona Cendrillon, which grants her tactical combat abilities. Her role also involves probing mysteries, including the appearance of Arsène-depicting graffiti recognizable only to persona users, prompting her collaboration with Goro Akechi to uncover the truth behind the artist Guernica. Her rhythmic gymnastics foundation enhances her agility and precision during both physical confrontations and strategic operations.