Rei felt a sense of unease after the attack on her school. She had used her powers to save lives, but she knew that she couldn't rely on them alone. She needed something more, something that could help her defend herself and others.
She remembered a shop in the city that specialized in custom-made weapons. It was run by a man named Takashi, who was known for his skill in smithing. Rei had met Takashi a few times before and knew that he was trustworthy.
Without hesitation, Rei made her way to Takashi's shop. She pushed open the door and was greeted by the sound of metal clanging against metal. Takashi was busy at work, hammering away at a piece of steel.
"Rei! What brings you here?" Takashi asked, looking up from his work.
"I need your help," Rei replied. "I need a weapon."
Takashi raised an eyebrow. "A weapon? What kind?"
"A katana," Rei said firmly. "A red one."
Takashi nodded, studying Rei for a moment. He knew that she was serious. "I can do that. But why red?"
Rei hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to explain. She didn't want to reveal her powers to Takashi, but she knew that he would be able to sense something was different about her.
"It's just a preference," she finally said. "I like the color red."
Takashi nodded, accepting her explanation. "Alright. I'll need some time to make it. Come back in a week and I'll have it ready for you."
Rei felt a sense of relief. She knew that she was one step closer to being able to protect herself and others.
As she made her way out of the shop, Takashi called out to her. "Be careful, Rei. The city is dangerous these days."
Rei nodded, feeling a sense of unease once again. She knew that Takashi was right. The city was becoming more dangerous with each passing day. But she also knew that she couldn't live in fear. She had to be brave, for herself and for others.
As the week went by, Rei waited anxiously for Takashi's call. She spent her days practicing her powers, honing her abilities. She knew that she had to be ready for anything.
Finally, the day arrived. Rei made her way to Takashi's shop, feeling a sense of excitement and apprehension. She didn't know what to expect.
Takashi greeted her at the door, a small smile on his face. "Rei, it's good to see you. Are you ready to see your weapon?"
Rei nodded eagerly, following Takashi to the back of the shop. There, on a wooden stand, was the most beautiful weapon Rei had ever seen. It was a red katana, the blade shimmering in the light.
Rei couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. She reached out to touch the hilt, feeling the smoothness of the wood against her skin.
"It's perfect," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Takashi nodded, a sense of pride evident in his eyes. "I'm glad you like it. Remember, it's more than just a weapon. It's a part of you."
Rei nodded, feeling a sense of reverence for the katana. She knew that Takashi was right. The weapon wasn't just a tool. It was a symbol of her strength, her courage, and her determination.
As she made her way out of the shop, Rei couldn't help but feel a sense of confidence. She knew that the city was dangerous, but she was ready for the battle