In the enchanting world of "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," a Persian steampunk empire awaits your mastery of arcane alchemy. Will you harness this ancient art to repair a khalicraft spaceship and escape to new realms, or will you command a formidable mech into the heart of battle? The choice is yours, as you stand at the precipice of a revolution in the ancient city of Seyj.
This interactive retrofuturistic fantasy novel, penned by Peter Adrian Behravesh, draws inspiration from eighteenth-century Iran. With a staggering 270,000 words and countless choices, your journey through this text-based adventure is powered solely by the boundless expanse of your imagination. No graphics or sound effects are needed; your decisions shape the narrative.
As an adept in alchemy, you stand at the forefront of both magic and technology. Your skills allow you to concoct gunpowder, engineer complex machines, brew potent potions to combat the gravest of ailments, and create exquisite perfumes. Yet, the lost art of astralchemy beckons, offering the potential to repair a khalicraft spaceship for interstellar escape or to pilot a giant mech into the fray.
Seyj, your home, teeters on the edge of revolution. Fifty years ago, the She'ri Empire invaded, toppling the old ruler and occupying your planet. With 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. However, the Revolutionists' protests grow louder each day, demanding the satrap's overthrow and the restoration of the old regime.
When the Revolutionists approach you, will you align with their quest for justice? Will you remain steadfast in your duty to the satrap? Or will you navigate a perilous path, acting as a spy and playing both sides against each other? Beware, for the wrong move could place you on the sharp end of a shamshir's blade.
Your journey offers numerous paths:
- Choose your gender identity as male, female, or nonbinary, and your sexual orientation as gay, straight, bisexual, or asexual.
- Master the arcane art of astralchemy to forge powerful weapons, establish your own workshop, or secure a prestigious professorship at the University.
- Ascend the military ranks and lead an army in defense of the satrap.
- Alternatively, join the revolution, topple the usurper, and restore the rightful ruler to her throne.
- Find romance with a fellow soldier, a blacksmith-turned-rebel, or even a princess.
In "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," the question looms large: Is gaining the world worth losing your soul?
