Heaven did not descend in thunder.
It arrived as a breeze.
Gentle enough that only the land noticed first.
Lin Chen was in the outer fields, sleeves rolled up, helping disciples replant spirit grain after the drought. When the wind passed, the soil warmed—just a little.
Not a blessing.
An offer.
---
> System Notice:
Heavenly Contact (Non-Coercive)
Nature: Optional Alignment
Warning: Acceptance will alter trajectory
Lin Chen wiped sweat from his brow.
"…You learned how to ask."
The mountain hummed, amused.
---
A figure appeared at the edge of the field—familiar.
The observer from before. Plain robes. Calm eyes.
"You proved your premise," he said.
"Heaven adjusted."
Lin Chen tilted his head. "And now?"
"Now Heaven wishes to cooperate."
Several disciples stiffened.
Lin Chen raised a hand.
"On what terms?"
The observer hesitated.
"Minimal correction. No forced tribulations. Support only when requested."
Lin Chen considered.
"Like a consultant," he said.
The observer almost smiled.
---
> System Analysis:
Heavenly Posture Shift: Subordinate Assistance
Probability of Abuse: Low
Lin Chen nodded slowly.
"Then we'll try it."
The wind settled.
The soil breathed.
Nothing flashy happened.
That was the point.
---
Word spread quickly.
"Heaven compromised."
"No—Heaven learned."
"Azure Cloud Sect negotiated with the sky."
Lin Chen ignored the rumors.
He was busy drafting something unprecedented.
---
That evening, he posted a new plaque at the sect gate:
Heaven Is Welcome Here
So Is Disagreement
Little Green added a smaller sign beneath it:
NO YELLING
---
The system chimed late that night.
> Title Unlocked:
Sect Master of the Third Path
Effect: Authority Without Domination
Lin Chen lay back under the stars again.
"…Third path," he murmured.
The mountain answered:
First was force. Second was defiance.
Third is coexistence.
---
In distant realms, ancient beings stirred.
Not in fear.
In curiosity.
Because for the first time in immeasurable ages—
Someone had shown that Heaven
did not need to rule to matter.
And that idea…
Was far more dangerous
than rebellion ever was.