That night, Li Chen made his decision.
He stopped cultivating.
Completely.
He transferred formation credits to Mo Yun, redirected attention toward other disciples, and subtly encouraged rumors that Xu Ming was the anomaly of interest.
He dismantled half his offensive preparations and doubled his concealment measures.
The Observer stayed three more days.
Then he left.
No farewell.
No explanation.
Just a quiet departure, like a shadow slipping away at dawn.
Far above, a final notation was made:
"Irregularity exists."
"Not ripe."
"Continue monitoring."
Li Chen survived.
Not by power.
Not by brilliance.
But by understanding a single truth:
The heavens do not fear blades.
They fear what they cannot predict.
And for now—
He would remain unseen.