Imperatore Hotohori, born Seishuku, ascended as Konan's fourth emperor at age fourteen following his parents' deaths. His early reign endured significant bloodshed orchestrated by his mother's political manipulations to secure his throne. Raised in isolation among advisors, profound loneliness defined his childhood, leading him to perceive himself as a "bird trapped in an elaborate cage." This solitude fueled an intense fixation on the legend of the Priestess of Suzaku, whom he believed would end his emotional isolation and offer genuine love, untainted by his imperial status.

Hotohori possesses striking feminine beauty, frequently causing initial misidentification. He stands 182 cm tall with dark brown waist-length hair, brown eyes, and fair skin. When utilizing his powers, the crimson Suzaku warrior mark—the character for "star"—appears on his left throat. As emperor, he dons elaborate ceremonial robes, though he adopts simpler crimson attire while assisting the priestess Miaka. His warrior garb features red and gold armor.

Dedicated to Konan's welfare, Hotohori prioritizes peace, signing treaties with rival nation Kutou to prevent unnecessary conflict. He initially seeks protection through summoning Suzaku but later acknowledges over-reliance on divine aid, urging his people to cultivate their own strength. Despite his aversion to war, he personally leads his army during invasions, declaring, "Konan is my kingdom, so I must protect it personally." This duty frequently overshadows his personal needs, including delaying marriage to produce an heir due to his unrequited love for Miaka.

His initial romantic fixation centers on Miaka, whom he views as the embodiment of his childhood ideal. He openly declares his love and protects her despite knowing she loves the warrior Tamahome. After a non-consensual kiss and a rejected proposal, he accepts her choice, supporting her relationship with Tamahome and providing financial aid to Tamahome’s family. He eventually marries You Houki, a noblewoman moved by his selflessness. Though their union begins as duty, genuine affection develops. Their marriage lasts only one month before his death, resulting in one son, Boushin.

Hotohori dies during Konan's war with Kutou, mortally wounded by the Seiryuu warrior Nakago. His final thoughts express guilt for abandoning Houki and Boushin, yet his last words wish for Miaka's happiness. Symbolic bird imagery upon his death suggests release from lifelong constraints. Posthumously, he appears as a spirit in OVAs and light novels, comforting Chiriko’s family and expressing regret for leaving his own. He assures Houki and Boushin of his enduring spiritual presence, emphasizing his dual legacy as ruler and warrior.