The reason he had kept a low profile everywhere before, even deliberately concealing his true strength, was entirely because he feared the Soul Clan would set its sights on him and have him assassinated.
Back then, he was not strong enough, and the Stone Clan was not powerful enough either. They could only tread carefully and avoid drawing attention as much as possible.
But things were different now. He was already a Nine-star Dou Saint. Looking across the entire continent, there was no one left who could threaten him.
With things as they were, he no longer needed to hide his strength like before.
It was time to make his return!
Thus, news of Shi Kang's breakthrough to the Nine-star Dou Saint realm quickly spread throughout the Stone Realm.
At once, the entire Stone Realm erupted.
Clan members poured out from their residences, their faces brimming with excitement. Some could not even stop themselves from cheering aloud.
"The Young Clan Leader has broken through to Nine-star Dou Saint!"
"That's wonderful! Our Stone Clan finally has a Nine-star Dou Saint expert too! We won't have to fear any faction ever again!"
Someone beside them chimed in, "Exactly! With the Young Clan Leader here, we won't have to fear any faction anymore! We won't even fear the Soul Clan!"
Cheers and discussions rose one after another, and even the air seemed filled with joy.
Those who came to offer congratulations arrived wave after wave. There were Shi Clan Members, as well as members of the Ancient Void Dragon Clan.
After sending away the people who had come to congratulate him, Shi Kang was finally able to be alone with Zi Yan.
In the room, Shi Kang gently reached out and touched her swollen belly.
The moment his palm rested against it, he