The story of Alexander IV
The first character we meet is the half-Persian prince and son of Alexander the Great, Alexander IV. Alexander's legacy is revealed through his son's adventures. Illustrated by animator Umeka Asayuki in a clear, flawless line; colored by Bobby Widjaya.

Pages 140-141 (PDF, 582k): Hephaestion warns Alexander IV about the conspiracy against him.

Pages 210-211 (PDF, 813k): Alexander's mother, Olympias, sends Alexander IV's guards to the capital to protect him.

Page 274 (PDF, 316k): A sacrifice is prepared.

Hephaestion's memories
In retelling his memories of Alexander's boyhood and early conquests, Hephaestion is our guide to the past--and the portion of the story that takes place before history becomes "alternate." Drawn by illustrator Seijuro Mizu and colored by Alexander Andy in impressionistic watercolors.

Pages 48-50 (PDF, 960k): The story of Hephaestion's father and mother.

Pages 72-75 (PDF, 1.17mb): Young Alexander's nightmares.

Pages 122-123 (PDF, 593k): With Hephaestion's help, Alexander overthrows Darius III, the Great King of the Persian Empire.

Alexander's letters
After retelling Alexander's early history, Hephaestion gives the prince a collection of letters from the late emperor. The letters, originally written to Hephaestion, recount Alexander's further conquests--the "alternate" history so crucial to the premise of The Golden Vine--in the conqueror's own voice. Illustrated by manga artist Shino Yotsumoto and colored by Heru Arman in rich hues and gold washes reminiscent of an illuminated manuscript.

Pages 193-194 (PDF, 670k): Alexander establishes the eastern edge of his empire.

Pages 215-217 (PDF, 1.2mb): Alexander visits the Egyptian court of his cousin, Ptolemy I.

Pages 230-231 (PDF, 706k): Alexander learns of the Mayan civilization, located far across the Atlantic Ocean.