After the Grand Priest explained some things to Whis, he allowed Katakana and Whis to leave.
This time, Katakana didn't let Whis guide him. Instead, he grabbed Whis and used Instant Transmission to return directly to the Seventh Universe. As for the temple, Katakana really didn't want to stay for long. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call that place a living hell.
Both the Grand Priest and Zeno were far too powerful, far beyond Katakana's league. What unsettled Katakana the most was Zeno's mentally immature games. Just thinking about it made him want to vomit.
"What?!"
"I returned to the Seventh Universe, the world of the God of Destruction, in an instant?!"
Seeing the familiar surroundings, Whis exclaimed in astonishment. Although he had guessed that Katakana possessed a teleportation ability that could cross universes, witnessing it for himself still shocked him.
"It seems that Mr. Katakana has mastered a very powerful movement technique! To move from the Grand Priest's palace directly to the Seventh Universe... No wonder you were able to dodge the Grand Priest's attack!"
Whis smiled as he spoke.
This time, Katakana didn't intend to continue hiding it, because he felt confident enough to be open. Whis would certainly keep it a secret. After all, Katakana now held an additional title: Apprentice Law Enforcement Officer! Even if it wasn't the official position, it was almost as good as one. When the time came, and when he possessed enough strength, he would undoubtedly rise to the position of Temple Law Enforcement Officer.
Katakana was very confident about that.
"Heh heh! You can't just tell anyone about the method you use to save your life, right?" Katakana said, nudging Whis with his elbow and grinning.
"Ho ho! Very true, Mr. Katakana. As a trainee law enforcement officer, and one who will certainly rise to a full temple enforcement role in the future, I'll be relying on you to let me relax and fish a little when the time comes!"
Whis said with an amusing smile.
"No problem! But before that, I must focus on getting you stronger."
Katakana nodded.
Whether one aimed to become a trainee or a full temple enforcement officer, strength was the foundation. Without strength, one wouldn't have any deterrent effect when supervising others, especially after having offended the Gods of Destruction like Champa of the Sixth Universe and Vermut of the Eleventh Universe. They would surely seek revenge if given the chance.
Although Katakana could temporarily rely on the Grand Priest and Zeno for protection, he didn't like relying on others. True strength had to come from himself.
"Mr. Katakana, leave your training to me! In the coming days, I'll teach you everything I know. I'm sure that with your talent, it won't take long before you surpass even me!"
Whis said with fervent sincerity. He knew Katakana would one day become a Temple Law Enforcement Officer, and perhaps even rise to stand alongside the Grand Priest. To have been the teacher of such a person was a rare honor.
After that, Katakana didn't immediately begin training with Whis. Instead, after bidding him farewell, he left the world of the God of Destruction and returned to Earth.
He knew he would be spending the next five years or more training in the God of Destruction's realm. Whis had already wiped out all the food Katakana had brought with him, and the food available in that realm was nearly inedible. So Katakana returned to Earth, both for a proper meal and to stock up on food capsules for the future.
Another reason was that he wanted to see Number 18 again. It had been over a year since he'd left, and he was sure she missed him very much.
Still, Katakana had no intention of bringing Number 18 with him. The enemies he was now dealing with were far too strong. It would be too dangerous for her. According to the original storyline, when Majin Buu appeared, the Earth was largely safe. So it was best to leave Number 18 where she was.
"Shuu!"
After a hearty meal, Katakana activated Instant Transmission and arrived at Number 18's residence.
At that moment, Number 18 was standing alone on the balcony, gazing out into the distance, her eyes slightly red.
"Two years... Katakana, when will you come back?"
Then, suddenly, a pair of strong hands embraced her from behind.
"I'm back."
Katakana whispered softly into Number 18's ear.
"Ah... Su–Su Han?!"
Hearing the voice she longed for, Number 18 felt herself melt, her body going soft. Was she dreaming? Was Katakana really back?
Katakana scooped Number 18 up into his arms.