Legend of Hellfire

After the death of it's master, Hellfire was passed around in to various hands of collectors and was quickly associated with murder.

Summary

The sword of the famous Demon Samurai Koji Ryouichi Shimizu. After his death in battle in 1575 it was passed around to various collectors as a sort of 'prize'. While in the possession of these collectors, a series of murders happened involving the sword.

Historical Basis

The story is true to certain extents. The former wielder of the sword was a half-demon, and the sword itself is a demon-possessed sword. Not just anyone can wield he sword but simply holding it has no real consequences. On the other hand, if one were to hold the sword with the the intention of striking the demon within the sword awakens and becomes in control. This resulted in the murder of many in various circumstances ranging from simply demonstrating the sword, to domestic violence.

Spread

It is a commonly known myth amongst enthusiasts of the time period, collectors, and those who know a lot about curses (typically witches). Though a lot of doubt come from the first two parties.

In Literature

It is written in variations of history books though not really taught in school, unless they are doing a lessons on other related subjects (IE demonology, mythology, etc) There may be a poem or two, and the likeness of the sword and wielder may appear in some stories depicting them as the villain.