2 ❀ bad end meme

[konnosuke]

❝ANOTHER BAD END MEME❞ A popular fan theory is that the enemy swords you fight are actually your swords from an alternate universe who wished to change history. For this meme, feel free to make up your own starters or use one of the prompts below. Remember to state if your character is corrupted, not, or if you have no preference. △ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ △ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ △ 1. How could you let this happen? They wanted to be left alone, their mood was poor, and maybe you should have noticed the signs but now that you have, it’s too late. They can’t stop these thoughts in their head and something in their soul has turned dark and ugly. Is it too late? Maybe you can get through to them… if not, are you ready to draw your sword? 2. Possession. Even the smallest trace of doubt can attract them— evil spirits. Once the dark spirit has latched on to your soul, it takes over and consumes you. Maybe the possession is gradual or maybe it happens suddenly. All you know is that everyone has regrets and anyone can doubt… this could happen to anyone. 3. In a moment. You've been assigned on a mission. It's nothing surprising but this is one that hits a little closer to the heart and not in a good way. It's natural to wonder what you would do if you could go back in time and change a certain thing. But right now, it's actually in your power to make it happen. Can you do it? And if you do, can you deal with the consequences? 4. Becoming your own enemy. Your mission is to go back in time and let things happen as they were meant to be but their fall into despair was never supposed to happen, right? And so you went back in time to prevent their misfortunes but you keep failing again and again until, this time, you think you’ve got it. This time, you’ll be able to save your friend - but will you be able to save yourself too? 5. Reborn again. When destroyed in battle, the sword disappears only to return again anew. You can’t choose the fate you’re born with though and this time, someone has returned… on the wrong side. 6. The other side. But there are three sides to this war, aren't there? You are the third side: the Kebiishi. This army thinks they're preserving history but you know better, don't you? It's not their fault... the only history they know is the history they ruined. The saniwa's army doesn't know how to stop and that's why it's up to you to put an end to them. 7. Actually not so innocent. You don't even realize you're doing it. You go to sleep, you black out, and the next thing you know, there's blood on your sword. But from what? How? Did you do it? You don't... remember doing this but everyone is saying you did something wrong. But you're innocent! You swear! 8. The cure is ineffective. They saved you. You'd turned on them before and you were forced to commit grave sins against your will but they saved you. They stopped you. Your soul was purified by the saniwa sage. Did it hurt? Maybe you remember. Maybe you don't. But all that matters you thought you were saved... until it became clear that you weren't. You're living on borrowed time. You're a ticking time bomb. Are you ready for part two? 9. Wildcard. Bring the pain. Make your own/mix and match. △ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ △ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ △

Comments

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

How could this happen to meeeeeeee

[ This...is not what he wanted.

It was a point of pride to finally go on sortie as part of a proper team. Felt like this citadel's saniwa was finally seeing his potential (it really should have happened sooner in his opinion, considering he'd been properly assigned there.), and even though he's not the team's captain, he'd been pleased and even eager to get to work after spending WAY TOO LONG tending. fucking vegetables.

Anyway.

A mission. A sortie. Fighting the enemy, defeating the enemy, this is all great. Until one of their own...turns out to be the enemy.... ]

Shit.

[ Yep. Bad.

How is this even possible? Had he missed the signs? How could he have missed the signs? Chougi knows he's not exactly Mr. Popular at the citadel and he honestly still doesn't even know everyone's names, but something like a danshi actually being an enemy or turning into an enemy or whatever has just happened should be pretty obvious right? Well apparently not because here we are, and Chougi's turning his sword on a -- well, maybe not a friend, but at least a comrade, and for all that he's a salty boy sometimes, this is the last thing he ever wanted to do. ]

Dammit! Why?!

What possessed you??

[ Maybe this is what he wanted. Integrating into the citadel has been...rough. The fake that stole his name is here and everyone seems to like him (the worst part is that he's so likeable. Fuck you, Fakey.), and okay, nobody is outright an asshole to Chougi but they're all merely civil and he hates it here. He hates that he's been assigned here for who even knows how long (permanently? Oh god please no) and he hates that he's been totally overshadowed by a fake and he hates stupid fieldwork and he hates that whenever someone says "Yamanbagiri" the fake responds to it, too and he hates that most of the time it's the fake they mean when they say "Yamanbagiri" and--

It's thoughts like these that create the first chinks in his armor, so to speak. Thoughts that start out as simple complaints from someone struggling to find his feet in unfamiliar territory, but that gradually turn darker. He doesn't even notice at first when his internal grumbling starts to take on a more sinister tone.

Chougi's always thought his life would be easier if the fake wasn't around to confuse people, but somewhere along the line he starts to also think his life would be easier if nobody who knows the fake existed was around, too. And once he thinks about that it starts sounding like a good idea. ]

Hey. You.

[ Yeah. That's it. He just has to get rid of all of them. Doesn't matter where he starts as long as there's only one Yamanbagiri when he's finished and nobody who can say otherwise. ]

Wildcard

[ Hit me! (No, don't hit me, I'm delicate -- Hit Chougi! He probably deserves it) ]

Possession

[shishinoko]

[Chougi could not possibly have chosen a worse sword to target first, really. The older Genji brother is a legendary killer of demons and of other swords. He was called 'Tomokiri' and 'Onikiri'. Someone coming at him with a dark aura and murderous intent is only likely to get a smile thrown back at them. Possibly a smile that should make them run for the hills.

But of course, there's another reason why this was a really bad choice.]

Eeeeeettooooooo.... who are you again?

anija why

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ It's a shame Chougi's already too far gone to go running for the hills when he sees Higekiri smiling. Maybe that would have saved him (but probably not.).

Doesn't matter anyway; the second he hears Higekiri's question, something inside Chougi snaps. The blow to his ego is the last straw. ]

Don't lie! You know exactly who I am!

[ Or he should but with the way the fake has mixed things up, who knows? That just makes him angrier. His eyes flash red -- very much the wrong color -- and he draws his sword.

Chougi, what are you doing, drawing your sword against a comrade and inside your own citadel? ]

[shishinoko]

[Higekiri blinks, and cocks his head to the side, his unnerving smile widening slightly.]

Hmmmm, do I? Names don't really matter to me....

[He gives a pointed look to that blade, because really? Really? A puny, low-level uchigatana is drawing his sword against him? No matter the comrade thing, this is what's ridiculous here.]

Now, now, do you really want to get hurt, Ginpatsu-kun?

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ Chougi's howl of anger is probably audible miles away. Anija, that's mean. ]

Yamanbagiri, the name he stole from me! You know it! You know that name, I know you do!

[shishinoko]

Yamanbagiri? Hmmmm.....

[Tapping his chin with his finger, then...]

Ah! But that's Kinpatsu-kun's name, isn't it? Is it yours too? That's confusing.

[Another pointed look at the blade.]

What exactly do you think you're doing here?

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

A fake! He's a fake!

[ Anija, you broke it. ]

It stole my name from me, it shouldn't even exist!

[ He's going to make sure it doesn't exist -- and if it gets reforged he'll break it again and and again and again until they finally learn and if they don't he'll break them, too-- ]

I'm Yamanbagiri. That one's just a fake. [ He lifts the blade and points it at Higekiri. ] You don't need to remember a fake.

but what possessed you!!!

[tosa]

( Things have been a little different since Chougi arrived but the same can be said whenever any new sword arrives. Sure, Chougi's circumstances had been different from most since he'd come from a different citadel but at the end of the day... well, at the end of the day, most touken danshi settle into their new life here and things carry on as normal. Chougi's integration had been a little more difficult given his issues. It's no secret that he isn't the most popular sword at the citadel. That kind of happens when you antagonize a well established member of their group.

Mutsu is a friendly spirit, the type that gets along with most. Sure, he might pick on those Shinsengumi guys from time to time but after all of their time together, you might even call them friends and their fights just being the nature of their friendship. As one of the older swords at the citadel, he's tried to help keep the peace. He doesn't really give Chougi a difficult time like the others-- enough people are doing that already and adding to it would just make it worse. There are times when he might comment that Chougi can lighten up or give Yamanbagiri a chance but he doesn't push it. Chougi is already aware of his situation and it's one that he has to resolve on his own.

He's an observant spirit like that, able to read people fairly well when he isn't being stubborn. He's noticed that something seems to be troubling CHougi these days but given their current level of familiarity, he can't quite put his finger on what it is. It's probably why he answers so casually when Chougi calls him.

Mutsunokami is getting ready to go on an expedition so his sword and gun aren't too far away but he isn't exactly armed, )

Yeah? What's up? Are ya going out too? I don't remember seeing your name on the assignment board...

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ Mutsunokami's been nice enough to him. Under other circumstances, that would definitely make him stop and think about what he's doing but regrettably, Mutsu knows the fake and is friendly with the fake. He has to go. It's a shame, but it has to be done. Everyone who knows the fake or has spoken to or of him has to be taken care of.

It hasn't occurred to him yet that'll eventually include the saniwa, too, but at this point he probably doesn't care. ]

For what it's worth, I'm sorry it had to come to this.

[ Really? Not even a greeting? ok.jpg

But he does actually sound regretful when he draws his sword -- fast, like the fake -- and slashes at Mutsu.

It's not his best attack, but then, his mind and body aren't totally his anymore. ]

[tosa]

What--

( Something is wrong and he notices it almost instantly, feeling something in the air that suggests he should be on guard. Before he can really ask what's wrong, though, he finds at the end of Chougi's blade. He steps back quickly, stumbling back in surprise as he tries to grab his sword, )

-- The heck's wrong with ya?!

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ He missed. The fake won't miss, the voice in his head whispers at him. But you're better than that. You have to show them. Make them forget the fake. Cut them down!

What's gotten into him, indeed. ]

I have to--

[ A slight adjustment. He was clumsy, but his movements now are a little more sure. The thing inside him is getting used to having control. ]

I'm really sorry, but if I don't do this... There's only one Yamanbagiri! There's only me!

[ Another slash, aimed at Mutsu's hands. If Mutsu gets ahold of his own sword, this might turn out all wrong for Chougi, and he can't have that.]

[tosa]

( A candle lit room at the of the hall. Unaware, a man answers the door only to find himself face to face with his assassin. He reaches for his sword and--

Mutsu grits his teeth when he's struck. The steel of Yamanbagiri's blade cuts into his hand and he only barely manages to grab his sword. His hold is weak as blood drips from the back of his hand and down his finger tips. This isn't good. ven if he's managed to get ahold of his sword, his dominant hand is injured. It isn't a complete loss. Mutsu's fighting style is unconventional. He uses a sword and gun (which he also needs to grab now) but he's used to switching hands to use both as necessary. He isn't nearly as good at fighting left handed but it's not impossible. )

It's not just you.

( Even he can see that much. He's fought enough enemies to know. )

You... Yamanbagiri Chougi might not like Yamanbagiri Kunihiro but he'd never raise his sword against an ally. Who're you really? Let him go!

( True to his spirit, he'd rather talk first than fight. )

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ It's not as deep as intended. Mutsu's reflexes are too good; Chougi had been aiming to take his hand off. ]

Don't call it that!

[ Despite the raw anger in his voice, Chougi's eyes flick to Mutsu's hand. They widen briefly before narrowing again. He's still in there. Keep talking. ]

That thing isn't Yamanbagiri -- it shouldn't even have a name!

[ Stop talking, Chougi. Stick to the plan and cut Mutsu down already! ]

how could this have happened?? oh no

[replicatedform]

[Everyone have seen how much Yamanbagiri Chougi's arrival affected Yamanbagiri Kunihiro. For most part, they respect his—Yamanbagiri Kunihiro's—wishes and stay... as civil as they can. Because he will eventually face his original.

But it's hard, hearing every harsh, spiteful words from him. Even if it's not his fault, it's still true. Humans believed the replica to be the original witch slayer, they thought the original get named after the replica. He received their attention and admiration, instead of Yamanbagiri Chougi.

As far as he sees it, Yamanbagiri Chougi have the right to hate him. Yamanbagiri Kunihiro's slowly building self-esteem started to show chinks, and he became more uncertain, shaky in himself around his original's presence.

It's only during missions, where the adrenaline and threat of being broken on the battlefield, that can distract him from it. Just enough. Just enough for the enemy to reach out to him. No one noticed until Yamanbagiri Kunihiro slashed at a comrade's back.

The adrenaline's still running throughout his body, his sword is held tightly in his hand and pointing at Chougi, his original.

'Strike him down. He's the source of your worries. Strike him down. No more comparisons.']

Yaman... bagiri...

[The look in his eyes look confused, scared, uncertain and hungry. All he's paying attention to is Chougi, as if ignoring their other teammates. Some of them are probably attending to the comrade he just attacked.]

oh no!!!!

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

Why?

[ Saying it again isn't going to get him an answer.

Chougi has himself between his replica and the rest of the team; the tantou that was damaged is already being tended to. If it weren't for the look in Yamanbagiri's eyes, Chougi could almost convince himself this was just a terrible accident. But the sword pointed at him is no accident. ]

Being a fake wasn't enough for you? Now you want to take my place?

[ He should have expected it. He'd been afraid from the beginning that something would happen to finally push him, Yamanbagiri Chougi, out of the light completely. He just hadn't expected...

But no, what is this? The fake is acting all wrong, even for him. Chougi shifts into a ready stance, more cautious. ]

Coming after me is one thing, but why them?

whatever could have caused this!!!!

[replicatedform]

[It's all wrong. No matter what, they all know Yamanbagiri Kunihiro cared deeply for his comrades. Maybe a little too much at times. It's just undeniable that he would never raise his sword against them like this.

And yet, it happened.

In his confused haze, Chougi's words seem to cut through. That one word he always hate and deny.]

I'm not a fake.

[It's just a whisper, but the strange voice he's hearing keep on speaking to his mind.

'Strike him down. No one will call you a fake. Strike him down. Who knows how many he will convince. Strike him down.']

I'm not... I'm not a fake!

[And suddenly, Yamanbagiri rushes at Chougi with his blade.

No, no, he didn't want this, but the voice is still talking, his body's moving...]

it is a mystery!!!

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ WHAT IS GOING ON. ]

Kuni--

[ No time for more questions. Chougi's on the defense immediately, blocking the first strike and then a second, though he's forced to take a step back with each one. When did the fake get this strong? Was he always? Dammit. He should have tried sparring with him and gotten a good idea of his strength. As it is, Chougi isn't entirely sure what he's up against here.

Even so.

Most of the team has scattered -- their tiny captain is badly damaged and needs immediate repairs. One of them shouts to Chougi, but he's a little busy right now. ]

Stay out of the way! I'll handle this!

[ He hopes he can. But surely the other Yamanbagiri will come back to his senses any moment now. Right? ]

who can solve it!!

[replicatedform]

[Chougi almost called him "Kunihiro". It would normally make him happy. It's acknowledge from Chougi, his important original.

'He's trying to lower your guard. Strike him down.'

But he pushes back harder, striking at Chougi with increasingly stronger blows. Behind Chougi, one of their teammates shout that they need to retreat.]

Yaman... bagiri... I-I'm not a fake! Stop calling me that! Stop...!

[Yamanbagiri Kunihiro have always been strong, but also controlled. Right now, his movements are wild and reckless, pushing against Chougi more and more.]

Stop... me...

[For a moment, his voice drops into a shaken whisper and sounds like he's pleading. Before he deliver another strong strike against Chougi, the strange hunger is back in his eyes again.]

uh oh chougi it's up to you buddy

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ This isn't right. Chougi may not know what's come over Yamanbagiri but he'd have to be the least observant sword in the world to not see the conflict happening. Something's got control of him, that's obvious enough. He's wild, unpredictable, and Chougi is barely able to counter each strike in time. He's being pushed back too far. ]

I don't know what you want me to do!

[ He's never encountered something like this before. He's not a spiritual sword like Ishikirimaru, he wouldn't know how to purify something if he was led through the process. And the middle of a fight isn't the best time to learn.

Their swords ring against each other and Chougi winces. They're going to end up damaged at this rate. ]

Stop fighting me, you idiot!

Possession

[niisamonji]

[Out of all the swords in the Citadel, Kousetsu Samonji is probably one of the few that has not been outright giving the cold shoulder to Chougi. They are, after all sort of acquainted. He has made it rather clear that he disapproves of the attitude Chougi has with regards to Yamanbagiri Kunihiro, but he also has been giving all of the issue space, because in the end, it is something they need to work out between themselves.

He is rather puzzled by the animosity he can hear in Chougi's voice when he is called out to.]

Yamanbagiri Chougi. What is it? Do you need something?

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ He's not as prepared for this as he could -- should -- be. The compulsion came over him too fast, his sword is back in his room and it's just sheer luck that he's run into Kousetsu on his way there to retrieve it.

There's a voice in his head hammering at him to cut them down, cut them all down! but right now he has nothing to cut with.

He's got his hands, though.

So rather than answer Kousetsu like he should (like he normally would), Chougi balls his hand into a fist and aims a blow at Kousetsu's jaw. ]

[niisamonji]

[There is one thing that people normally learn fast when being around Kousetsu, it's this: he absolutely loathes fighting. Hates it with every fiber of his being.

He also happens to be very, very, very good at it.

Blocking the blow is pure reflex, but Kousetsu's hand catches Chougi's wrist before it can even make contact, holding it in a vice grip tight enough to make bones creak.]

What do you think you're doing, Yamanbagiri Chougi? Get a hold of yourself!

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ Yeah this wasn't particularly well thought out.

The ache in his bones and Kousetsu calling him by name is almost enough to snap him out of whatever has possessed him, but the seductive voice in the back of his head reminds him that even if Kousetsu calls him by his proper name, there's still the fake using it, too. Trying to take it from him.

He lashes out at Kousetsu with his other hand this time -- which seems like a good way to just end up with both his hands caught, really. ]

Tell me-- Tell me I'm the only one!

[ Tell him he's the only Yamanbagiri that matters. Which of course, he isn't, Yamanbagiri Kunihiro has been here longer than he has, is loved by the whole citadel, but there's a tiny part of Chougi underneath that dark, little voice, that wants to claw his way back up to sanity.]

[niisamonji]

[No, none of this was well thought out at all, and true to what anyone could predict, Chougi's other fist gets blocked too.]

... The only one? What are you talking about?

[Everyone knows you are salty over the very existence of Yamanbagiri Kunihiro, Chougi, but Kousetsu is not going to deny another sword's very existence just because of you.]

[xx_ogsalty158_xx]

[ Chougi opens his hands, spreading his fingers wide like he's reaching for Kousetsu. ]

Help me.

[ A flash of the real Chougi but it's there and gone again in a second. He snarls, throwing his weight forward -- for all the good it'll do when Kousetsu is so much bigger than he is. ]