Embark on a thrilling journey in the Persian steampunk empire of "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," an interactive retrofuturistic fantasy novel by Peter Adrian Behravesh. Inspired by eighteenth-century Iran, this text-based adventure spans 270,000 words and offers hundreds of choices, powered solely by your imagination. Will you harness your arcane alchemy to repair a khalicraft spaceship and escape to another world, or pilot a formidable mech into the heart of battle? The choice is yours.
In the ancient city of Seyj, teetering on the edge of revolution, you find yourself at a crossroads. Fifty years ago, the She'ri Empire invaded, toppling the old ruler and occupying your planet. With your mixed heritage from both She'ri colonists and ancient Seyj families, your loyalties are divided. As a citizen, you're obligated to serve in the Royalists' army, defending the satrap governor. Yet, the Revolutionists' protests grow louder each day, demanding the overthrow of the satrap and the restoration of the old regime.
When the Revolutionists approach you, will you align with their quest for justice? Or will you uphold your duty to the satrap, remaining loyal to the Royalists? Perhaps you'll choose a more perilous path, acting as a spy and playing both sides against each other. Be cautious, for the wrong move could place you on the sharp end of a shamshir's blade.
Your mastery of arcane astralchemy places you at the forefront of magic and technology. You can craft gunpowder, design intricate machines, brew potions to combat the gravest diseases, and create exquisite perfumes. With the lost knowledge of astralchemy at your fingertips, you have the potential to revolutionize the empire or escape its confines.
In "Heavens' Revolution," you can:
- Play as male, female, or nonbinary; gay, straight, bi, or asexual.
- Master arcane astralchemy to craft powerful weapons, open your own workshop, or secure a professorship at the University.
- Rise through the military ranks and command an army to defend the satrap.
- Join the revolution, overthrow the usurper, and restore the old ruler to her throne.
- Find love with a fellow soldier, a blacksmith-turned-rebel, or a princess.
As you navigate this intricate world, you must ask yourself: Is gaining the world worth losing your soul?
