Heavens' Revolution

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, your skills in alchemy place you at the forefront of magic and technology. You can create gunpowder, design intricate machines, brew potent potions, and distill exquisite perfumes. With the lost art of astralchemy at your fingertips, you have the potential to shape the future of this world—or escape it entirely.

Half a century ago, the She'ri Empire invaded Seyj, overthrowing the old ruler and establishing a new regime. As a descendant of both She'ri colonists and ancient Seyj families, your loyalties are divided. You are bound to serve in the Royalists' army, defending the satrap governor, yet the Revolutionists' protests grow louder each day, calling for the restoration of the old regime.

When the Revolutionists approach you, will you align with their quest for justice, or remain loyal to the satrap, fulfilling your duty as a soldier? Alternatively, will you navigate the dangerous game of espionage, 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 journey allows you to play as male, female, or nonbinary; gay, straight, bi, or asexual. You can master arcane astralchemy to craft powerful weapons, open your own workshop, or secure a professorship at the University. Rise through the military ranks to command an army in defense of the satrap, or join the revolution to overthrow the usurper and restore the rightful ruler to the throne. Along the way, you might find love with a fellow soldier, a blacksmith-turned-rebel, or even a princess.

In "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," the power to ignite a revolution—or snuff it out—rests in your hands. Is gaining the world worth losing your soul? The choice is yours to make.