Shigure leads the Five Sword Clan, a group of spirit-interacting individuals operating in the turbulent final years of the Taisho era. They face persecution from the Imperial Japanese Army, which seeks to exploit their supernatural abilities. His fate intertwines with protagonist Hiiragi Kyoichiro during an army pursuit, binding them to the era’s political and supernatural conflicts.

Ostracized in childhood for his spiritual powers, Shigure left his birthplace and rose to clan leadership. The clan traditionally aided spirits' transition but descended into darker practices—kidnapping spiritually gifted children and eliminating families to maintain secrecy. This moral decline caused internal strife, particularly with Yuuma, Shigure’s predecessor and childhood friend. Yuuma initially failed to stop these atrocities and later appeared to defect to the military after a violent ambush that killed or captured numerous clan members.

Driven by loyalty, Shigure dedicates himself to rescuing captured comrades and children while wrestling with Yuuma’s perceived betrayal. His leadership blends straightforward determination with occasional impulsiveness. He accepts Kyoichiro’s assistance, trains him in basic spiritual magic, and forges a partnership rooted in mutual protection. Their bond deepens beyond camaraderie through physical affection—resting his head on Kyoichiro’s lap, sharing vulnerability during bathing. When Kyoichiro sustains life-threatening injuries defending him, Shigure experiences profound guilt and vows lifelong protection.

A pivotal confrontation with Yuuma unveils truths behind the clan’s conflict with the military, including revelations about the Higurashi village massacre and Yuuma’s covert efforts to protect the clan despite his apparent defection. Shigure confronts his inherited guilt and perceived "doom," finding emotional anchor in Kyoichiro’s steadfast presence. Intimate exchanges, including a significant kiss framed as a "good luck charm" before critical battles, further cement their connection.

Shigure’s arc resolves diversely across narratives. Certain conclusions see him reclaim leadership, dismantle the military’s supernatural threats, and remain with Kyoichiro despite divergent life paths. Others culminate in tragedy—accidental deaths, permanent separations, or failure to prevent further clan losses. His journey consistently centers on protecting his found family, reconciling past trauma, and embracing vulnerability through his bond with Kyoichiro.