The blades of old samurai swords sometimes carry a terrifying history: the number of human bodies they have sliced in two with a single stroke. Indeed, each katana, or samurai long sword, has its own unique story of not only a lethal past, but also an exquisite creation. From fiery forging shops to ferocious fighting schools, discover the mysterious process behind the creation of the sword that many experts call the most effective in the world. Generations of metal smiths and warriors have worked for centuries to perfect this process of art and chemistry, trial and honor, discipline and devotion—all embodied in the razor-sharp blade of the katana sword.