Over time, the ownership of Nikkari Aoe changes. It is shortened from an Oodachi of 75cm to a Wakizashi, or a shorter curved blade. Nikkari Aoe eventually ends up in the Kyougoku family for seven generations. Later, the Kyougoku family decided to move into Marugame Castle, which was said to be haunted by an evil spirit. They believed that a sword from the religious Aoe School would protect them. Nikkari Aoe became their guardian sword for several generations. In 1940, it was labelled as Japan's Important Artistic Item. After World War II, Nikkari Aoe was bought by the Marugame City. The blade and sheath, or koshirae, of Nikkari Aoe are both kept at Marugame City Museum today. CORRECT ENDING ACHIEVED.