"No. Eris would never accept a title she could only earn by relying on an outside power."
Cain folded his arms and spoke firmly.
"Is that so? She's a strong-willed girl."
"By the way, are you sure you don't want the King Dragon Sword back? I'd like Eris to have that trump card, but I still need your permission, Alexander."
"It's fine. I think my father gave up the King Dragon Sword and the title of North God so I could inherit them..."
Cain nodded faintly and thought for a moment.
"Alex... the former North God II..."
"That's right. He's my father."
"All right. Thank you on Eris's behalf."
"It's nothing. Just let me follow you, Lord Cain."
Cain said no more. He simply nodded and led Alexander onto the beach.
"Cain!"
Even from far away, Eris seemed to sense him. Her little nose twitched, and she turned around with a delighted smile.
Cain had meant to sneak up and surprise her, but she spotted him at once.
She ran over with the King Dragon Sword on her shoulder, her ruby eyes full of joy. Cain sighed and rose onto his toes to ruffle her hair.
Eris was growing far too quickly. She had completely overtaken him in height, and at night he had become her pillow...
"I saw your match. You've grown a lot, Eris."
"Hehe. Then Master Cain has to keep your promise and take me shopping!"
"But you haven't become a Sword King yet..."
"I... I can't?"
"You can... Eris, you don't need to pull your red hair into that pose. I agree... And once we're home, I'll have plenty of time to spend with you."
Eris had gathered her hair into twin tails and was blushing, on the verge of letting out a meow. Cain scratched