Discover the rich tapestry of Samarqand in "Samarqand: Prelude," a collection of origin stories and foundational tales set in the thrilling universe of the Golden Road Chronicles. Before the corporate wars and the struggle for independence, Samarqand was a world awakening to its own potential, unaware of the forces circling like vultures.

"Prelude" begins with "Echoes," a pulse-pounding novella of rediscovery, oppression, and desperate rebellion as the iron fist of Krasnaya Rechka descends upon the isolated village of Pristan' Zorya. Witness the birth of resistance and the forging of unlikely alliances in the fires of conflict.

Then, journey deeper into Samarqand's past with "First Interests," revealing the early incursions of powerful pharmaceutical corporations drawn by the planet's unique biosphere and unimaginable riches. Explore the subtle betrayals and hidden agendas that laid the groundwork for future struggles.

Finally, delve into the formative years of three key figures in the coming fight for Samarqand's destiny: Brynn Winterborn, the brilliant bioprospector haunted by loss; Nikolas Kusuma, the disgraced chemist with secrets to sell; and Siobhan Hu Tang, the daring pilot with a past she can't outrun. These are their origin stories – seeds planted in fertile ground, waiting to bloom amidst the thorns of corporate greed and political machinations.

"Samarqand: Prelude" is your essential gateway to the Golden Road Chronicles, a journey into a world teetering on the brink, brimming with danger, and ripe with possibility.