Horrid Henry Sour Susan

Hell has been sealed, the Lord of Hell has been slain. Now, no devil or demon shall ever haunt the world. Now, no sinner shall ever be banished into its horrid prisons. But what if the sinner himself... wishes to enter? —Standing parallel to this reality is an enormous opportunity. One toward which massive armies are striving for. There is no way to enter Hell but to make a pact with a Devil. But with bedazzling opportunities stoking the flames of hell, countless moths are being prodded onward. The stakes are high... it's not about some noble goal... The Throne of Hell is on the line! Inexplicably thrust into this world, Santy finds himself alone in the face of the armies of humans, monsters, and devils alike. As he digs deeper down into the pits of hell, will he unearth the answers to the mysteries surrounding him, or dig a grave so deep that it will forever ensnare him.

A reputation as ‘The Most Feared Gunslinger In the West’, and the Law hot on his heels, Henry Morgan had lived a full life. So when it all ended with a gunshot to the back of his head, he was quite ready. He embraced death… He embraced his end. Except it wasn’t the end… Some mysterious [Powerful Forces that be] wrenched him out of the world he knew and deposited him into the body of a version of himself in a Parallel world. A world where something as ‘impossible’ as Magic apparently exists. These [Powerful Forces that be] went a step further by granting Henry a System and issuing him strange prompts and Quests that send him down a road of Adventure and bloodshed all so he can etch his name in history and show this world and its many ‘wonders’ just how deadly a Gunslinger can be…

Anastasia Harrison, a young woman abused by her cruel family, thought her life was over when they forced her to marry Richard, the sleazy black sheep of the wealthy Wallace family. Meanwhile, her favored younger sister, Michelle, was set to marry Xavier, the elder brother, who was a CEO. Yet, an error at city hall ended up swapping their names on their respective marriage certificates. "What is this?! How are you married to Xavier Wallace?" "You're not getting any food or water until you sign the divorce papers!" To add fuel to the fire, the old Mr. and Mrs. Harrison passed away, leaving all their assets to Anastasia and not the rest of the family. This drove the Harrisons to their breaking point. To trade for a peaceful life, Anastasia was willing to leave her inheritance and leave the family, but the Harrisons had other plans in mind. They wanted to get rid of her. Permanently. However, it was by a stroke of luck that Anastasia was found by her new husband, Xavier, before her family succeeded. Determined to get her revenge, she struck a deal with Xavier. "Continue to be my wife and I will help you get your revenge!"

In order to survive, Perry needs to become a chef and help his system upgrade. He needs to understand the chef rules of this world and help 100 strong people upgrade through food. The chefs in this world need to get a license to cook. Perry needs to face many challenges and he also needs to act like Henry to avoid being discovered by others.

“What do you think you are doing with my father?” Henry asked in panic. “Giving him a son he would be proud of,” I replied with a slight smile. ••• The famous Musk family were known for their riches and prestige, but mostly because Hozier Musk, who came from nothing, had made a name for himself. Along the line, he realized his sons had become arrogant with his wealth. So he decided to put them to a test. He disappeared from their lives for eight years, but he gave his son a task, and whoever won would own a greater share of his wealth. Now Henry, his second son, married a wife who helped him build his reputation and wealth till he was richer and more successful than his brother, but he ended up divorcing her. But as fate might have it, Emily, his ex-wife, met his father, and she took matters into her own hands. But it doesn’t end there, as things got drastic really quickly. 

Henry is a university graduate who happens to be working as a hotel receptionist, though with big dreams of being more than that. All these change for good one day when he finds a way of cracking a very sophisticated technological system, which ultimately empowers him to formulate and develop leading-edge inventions from his bedroom. With a determined mind not only to conquer the market but also to move out of his gray life, Henry starts into his journey of fame by introducing a number of radical technologies that capture the interest of the whole world and hold it.

Good Looks: More handsome than gods. OP Skill: Perfect Copy. PP Size: Massive. Wealth: Abundant. Mission: Defeat the Demon Queen. Henry was your normal, handsome high school student; he never got in fights or trouble as he was too busy focusing on girls. Unfortunately, his life was cut short when he got in trouble with Mafias, who ended his life. Henry was given a second chance at life in a new world by a goddess–the goddess of lust under one condition, defeating the Demon Queen. In the new world, magic wasn't a myth as all humans had Mana flowing in them and different power systems, but something was different in this world: the females were stronger than the males, and 90% of the world's population were females. In this world of swords and magic ruled by females, Henry was determined to reach the top alongside all the beauties he could gather but that was easier said than done as he had to fight his way to the top, but no female could defeat his lust system. Additional tags: Smut - Weak to strong - Magic - Action - Beasts - Monster girls - Elves - Demon girls - dragon girls - No NTR - No Yuri - Handsome male lead. A/N English isn't my first language, so use the paragraph comment in case you spot any grammatical errors. Also, lots of lemon, I haven't written all of it, but I know there's going to be a lot. 200 power stones for 1 bonus chapter. 300 power stones for 2 bonus chapters. 400 power stones for 3 bonus chapters. Check out my other book: Lust system: Monster Girl Harem

Ding [congratulations you have acquired the Celestial{God of speed}System] [Do you accept the term and conditions of the system] With a huge claw at his face ready to take off his head, sending him back to the dark abyss from which he had just arrived not so long ago, already accepting his fate for a second death. Henry saw a holographic screen flash in front of him, one that would change his new life for the better... or worse, seeing no other option in his current dilemma and with nothing else to lose. "Yes, yes i accept!" he screamed out with determination and hope that this might just be a miracle here to save him from certain doom,and indeed it was. [You have successfully acquired all the functions and priorities of the system,including its benefits and disadvantages] Henry saw the screen again but that wasn't all he saw to his disbelief everything in the surroundings including the ferocious beast trying to kill him, were now completely still with the lion's claws just a few centimeters away from his head. "Wow, i guess this must be part of the benefits the system granted," he exclaimed with surprise "But what about the demerits?" I guess we'll find out soon enough as this was only just the beginning. Now with his newly acquired "cheat" system in a new world he had just been reincarnated to. From an urban civilization to an even more futuristic, civilized urban utopia where magic and technology are well versed, Henry must find his true purpose in the new world as he discovers more beings like him both good and bad. And as he navigates his way to a better second chance, making new friends and encountering old foes courtesy of his predecessor. Going against both celestial entities and monsters from other realms and doing as he pleases, defying rules of the multiverses and discovering worlds beyond. "Or maybe I'll just kick back and relax in this New World." SNEAK PEAK! Henry stood face to face with the mysterious figure, their suits a stark contrast to each other. Henry's white and gold suit gleamed in the sunlight, while the other figure's black and purple suit seemed to absorb the light around them. A mask covered the figure's face, making it impossible for Henry to discern their identity. "You're quite the legend, Henry," the figure said in a low, gravelly voice "I've heard a lot about your skills." Henry's eyes narrowed. "Who are you?" The figure chuckled. "Someone who's been watching you. Someone who's been waiting for the perfect moment to strike." Henry's grip on his fists tightened. "What do you want?" The figure smiled, their mask glinting in the light. "I want to see how fast you really are." Without warning, the figure took off, their black and purple suit blurring as they sprinted away. Henry's eyes widened, and he grinned. "Game on!" he exclaimed, taking off after the mysterious figure. The two speedsters tore through the city streets, their suits leaving trails of distorted air in their wake. As Henry left a trail of gold lightning so did the figure leave one of purple. Henry's Nitro suit glowed with a brilliant white light as he pushed himself to his limits, his feet pounding the pavement in a blur. The mysterious figure was fast, but Henry was determined to catch up. He focused all his energy on the chase, his senses heightened as he navigated the crowded streets. The city became a colorful blur as the two speedsters clashed in a battle of velocity and agility. Henry's heart pounded with excitement, his mind racing with the thrill of the chase. Who was this mysterious figure, and what did they want? Henry was determined to find out. Crap! I wanted to write more but looks like I've reached the word limit. Sigh* Well I hope I've gotten your attention with all this, i like my summary to always look like a trailer, that's why it's so long. Anyways check more of these when you read my book and support, I'll appreciate. Gracias! Check my discord link in bio, join for more info.

Ten years ago, Susan Hart made the hardest decision of her life: to let Elliot Graves go. He was the love of her life, a charming, ambitious college heartthrob with a future that could have taken him anywhere...and it did. Elliot chose his family’s legacy over her, leaving her shattered and determined never to look back. The life she built since then? It’s been all about survival, grit, and self-reliance. But just when she thinks she's moved on, fate has a cruel sense of humor. When Susan lands a high-stakes project for a prestigious client, the last person she expects to see at the contract signing is Elliot...the now-billionaire CEO of the company she’s working with. He’s just as devastatingly handsome as she remembers, just as powerful, and just as impossible to ignore. But it’s not just business. As they are forced to collaborate, sparks fly and old wounds resurface, leaving both of them questioning everything they once knew about love, loyalty, and each other. Elliot Graves, the man who once broke her heart, has never fully moved on. His family's expectations, his ambitions, and his fears of love pushed Susan away all those years ago. Now, seeing her again, he’s consumed by memories of what he lost. He might have built an empire, but without her, it feels hollow. As they navigate their professional relationship, buried feelings bubble to the surface. Will Susan give him a second chance to make things right? Or will Elliot be left to wrestle with the consequences of a love he never truly understood until it was too late? Rekindled Flames: Falling Again is a powerful, heart-wrenching journey of love lost, found, and tested. A story of exes forced to confront their past and redefine their future. It’s a story about second chances, regrets, and the impossible choices that shape our destiny. Elliot and Susan’s story is about the roads we take, the ones we leave behind, and what it means to risk it all for love. Because sometimes, the past isn’t just something we run from...it’s the only way forward. So, turn the page and dive into their world. Let their journey captivate you, break your heart, and piece it back together again. Because some loves are too powerful to stay buried. Welcome to Rekindled Flames: falling again

Henry Esprit and Andrea Leno are a new couple in their Junior year of high school, however they both have their own hidden sides. Henry come from a clan of exorcists, specializing in exorcising evil spirits and other spiritual beings. Andrea comes from a family of demon slayers, who specialize in killing and sealing demons. This is a story of Henry and Andrea who seek to advance their lives and relationship while hiding their secrets and protecting each other.

What if, you were thrown into an unknown world not as baby, but a mere teenager? A world of horrid creatures that seek to kill and rend your flesh? Fighting monsters that exist within the waking world - and the dream world as well. To survive, one must become strong and outpace what seeks to kill those who are attempting to survive. So come along and watch a boy rise to the top - or fall to the very bottom, never to see the light of day again...

At the meager age of 27, a young man lost his life in an unfortunate accident but by the mischievous tides of fate, he was a given a second chance at life in a world of swords and magic. With the goal to conquer the great labyrinths and explore the vast world, a legendary adventurer will be born in the lands of Merusia. This is the story of the man who was once named Matteo Alcantara, as he enjoys his new life in a world of fantasy and adventures as Grey Silverdrake. A sweet, sour, and slow slice of life with hints of adventure, romance, and cooking! A second life he's always dreamed of with novel and friendly encounters! The adventure of a lifetime! Disclaimer: This work is a reboot of my previous work titled "Gokaiku", so don't report it or something because of the similarities.

Sanchez Oliver Twist is the young, charismatic heir to Cruz Oil, one of the largest companies in Europe. Born into unimaginable wealth and privilege, his life takes a tragic turn when a devastating car crash claims his entire family. Left to shoulder the immense weight of his family's legacy, Sanchez makes the painful decision to sever ties with Susan Hopkins, his childhood sweetheart and the only person who ever truly understood him. Susan Hopkins, a half-Indian, half-American woman, grew up alongside Sanchez in London. Her father, a business partner to the Cruz family, ensured their families were deeply intertwined. As children, Susan and Sanchez shared an unbreakable bond, and as teenagers, they fell in love. But when Sanchez disappeared without explanation, Susan was left heartbroken, believing he had abandoned her. Years later, their paths cross again. Susan, now a successful entrepreneur, returns to London on business, determined to confront Sanchez and the wounds he left behind. But neither of them is prepared for the emotions that resurface—or the secrets that come to light. As they navigate their complicated history, family betrayals, and the pressures of their respective legacies, Sanchez and Susan must decide whether the love they once shared is worth fighting for or if some wounds are simply too deep to heal. “Please Don’t Go” is a heart-wrenching tale of love, loss, and redemption that explores the enduring power of first love and the courage it takes to confront the past.

Liv, a 34 -year-old woman struggling with depression after the death of her mother, feels as though she has reached the end of her road. On the anniversary of her mother’s passing, she decides to end her life, believing there's no way out of her overwhelming grief. However, when she jumps, something unexpected happens: instead of dying, she wakes up in a hospital, confused and disoriented. But Liv quickly realizes that she is no longer in her own body. She has somehow found herself in the body of a girl she used to know in high school—Susan, a classmate who also took her own life years earlier. Now trapped in Susan's body, Liv must piece together the mystery of why this girl ended her life and how her own soul ended up in Susan's place. As Liv navigates this new life, she uncovers dark secrets about Susan’s past and the people around her. She discovers that there are those who are aware of her soul’s switch and will stop at nothing to find out the truth of what happened. Among these people is a boy, the son of a dangerous man, who finds himself torn between his loyalty to his father and his growing feelings for Liv. Unbeknownst to Liv, his father is also hunting her, believing that she holds the key to something much larger than she can comprehend. Caught in a web of mystery, danger, and forbidden love, Liv must uncover the truth behind Susan’s death, all while grappling with her own identity and the growing connection she shares with the boy who may hold the answers—and the key to her survival.

Liv, a 34 -year-old woman struggling with depression after the death of her mother, feels as though she has reached the end of her road. On the anniversary of her mother’s passing, she decides to end her life, believing there's no way out of her overwhelming grief. However, when she jumps, something unexpected happens: instead of dying, she wakes up in a hospital, confused and disoriented. But Liv quickly realizes that she is no longer in her own body. She has somehow found herself in the body of a girl she used to know in high school—Susan, a classmate who also took her own life years earlier. Now trapped in Susan's body, Liv must piece together the mystery of why this girl ended her life and how her own soul ended up in Susan's place. As Liv navigates this new life, she uncovers dark secrets about Susan’s past and the people around her. She discovers that there are those who are aware of her soul’s switch and will stop at nothing to find out the truth of what happened. Among these people is a boy, the son of a dangerous man, who finds himself torn between his loyalty to his father and his growing feelings for Liv. Unbeknownst to Liv, his father is also hunting her, believing that she holds the key to something much larger than she can comprehend. Caught in a web of mystery, danger, and forbidden love, Liv must uncover the truth behind Susan’s death, all while grappling with her own identity and the growing connection she shares with the boy who may hold the answers—and the key to her survival.

Susan Mitchell , a frustrated office assistant discovers a rare relic in the confines of her office walls. out of curiosity to decipher the contents of this relic, Susan Mitchell gets transported to ancient Qin dynasty in China as Ru Lingyi who is a palace maid in the palace of an overbearing concubine. Will Susan Mitchell, who is now Ru Lingyi find her way out , or becomes entangled with palace drama?, how is she going to navigate this discovery?...why not read to find out.

This is the story of a boy, a boy who is destined to safe the world,…multiple times. But like every story, the tale has to start somewhere. Henry Dreherg is a young boy who leaves his mothers house to pursue what every young boy dreams of, an adventure. Together with his friends and companions he gains throughout his path, he meets strong enemies and wild adventures he has to face to ultimately make a name for himself in this gigantic and dangerous world.

Daus Moore grew up in a home devoid of love or affection, constantly being abused and mistreated by people who are suppose to be family. His only solace was school, hoping he could graduate and getting into his dream school. One day on his way home he unfortunately meets a horrid end wondering why he was dealt with such an unlucky life. He ends up waking in the body of Simuel Grey the protagonist of a novel he used to read at the library to avoid going home early. Now thrown with yet another life he didn't ask for, what is Daus going to do now? Will he finally find the happiness he so longed for? *Cover doesn't belong to me

have you ever thought of love at first sight if no, then come and enjoy yourself with some sweet & sour journey of youngsters experiencing their thrilling first meetings . The short stories expressed through heartfelt diary enteries will make you feel known with suspence , love , thrill and much more!!.

Wyne Wilson, CEO of Wilson Group who is Kate Wilson's only granddaughter and heir to the throne of the Wilson family company does not want to be matched with Ricardo Elmer, CEO of Elmer Group who is Gordon Elmer's grandson. She reasons that she does not like the CEO more than her and the man is small. The CEO often teases her. Then she is still hurt by being dumped by Arifin Cahyadi, her lover, which caught joking affectionately with Susan Pratama. But she doesn't know that the one who helped her at that time was Ricardo. Likewise, Ricardo doesn't realize that the woman he helped was Wyne, Kate's granddaughter. Then when Gordon asks him to marry the woman, he doesn't want to, because he is upset because Wyne doesn't like him since they were little. So the two humans ran away from Kate and Gordon, living as ordinary people. Wyne worked as a mini market cashier and Ricardo walked chicken sempol. Both of them meet again and keep each other's real identities secret. Ricardo told Matt to get Wyne fired from the mini market. Wyne was fired, even pickpocketed and Ricardo became a savior god. They lived in Ricardo's rented house, selling chicken sempol and love began to grow between them. One day, Kate and Gordon saw the couple selling on the side of the road and rushed over. At that time, Arifin and Susan came, insulting Wyne in front of Ricardo, Kate, and Gordon. Will Wyne and Ricardo's true identities be revealed?

to be born into a world absent of freedom. Vivshi Viltrano witnesses the world’s horrid truth. stricken of his freedom, the powers of liberation flow forth and ascend him to another plane. In the world, Aeons represents different human state of mind forms, giving life to humans with those with the best affinity. 12 Aeons exist in the world but the day Vivshi is activated, the world goes out of balance. Some strive to end him, others befriend him. To continuously strive for his freedom and the freedom of others, he slowly pieces together a picture of what true liberty is like.

This is a story about a modern man inspired by great conquerors, like Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan, to conquer another world. And, for that, he will utilize modern knowledge to develop his kingdom and innovative war strategies to conquer everything. Since he was a child, Henry loved reading about Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Genghis Khan, the greatest conquerors of all time. He idolized these important characters that molded humankind history with their own hands. Henry was always amazed by their great war tatics and strategies, that allowed them to conquer the world. He wanted to become someone like that. Unfortunately, he was born in the modern times and in a place that war was not a common occurence. Alone, he began to play hundreds of strategy games and eventually became a professional player, famous for his crazy and intelligent way of thinking. However, one day, due to unknown circumstances, Henry died and found himself on the long road to reincarnation, from where he jumped into the Dimensions River and reincarnated as the King of the Stahl Kingdom, a poor and cold nation surrounded by barbarians and wild life. He was finally in a place where he could conquer and dominate. A place where his brilliant tatics and strategies could dictate the way of the whole world. He wanted to follow the steps of his heroes and become the conqueror of the world. ______x_______ Note: I will be uploading a minimum of two to three chapters a week. Also, english is not my first language, so if you see any mistakes, please drop a comment on the paragraph. _______x_________ If you are liking this novel, leave your vote and review!

Young Tom had finally been chosen in Hogwarts as he anticipated to find the mystery of his parents with his friends; Bric Raily, Henry Potter and Sofia Weasley. Join Tom in his adventure in the Harry Potter world and unravel mysteries.

in this world wild beast roam Killing others devouring them in the dark, but in truth the worst beast hides it's identity in the light calling themselves humanity. reincarnated in the body of a beast watch as Adam walks in this world gaining strength and influence on his road to the peak

Captain Henry Donnager expected a quiet career babysitting a dusty relic in Area 51. But when a test unlocks a portal to a world of knights and magic, he's thrust into command of Alpha Team, an elite unit tasked with exploration. They join the local Adventurers Guild, seeking to unravel the secrets of this fantastical realm and the ancient gateway's creators. As their quests reveal the potent forces of magic, they inadvertently entangle in the volatile politics between local rivalling factions. With American technology and ancient secrets in the balance, Henry's team navigates alliances and hostilities, enlisting local legends and air support in their quest. In a land where dragons loom, they discover that modern warfare's might—Hellfire missiles included—holds its own brand of magic

Horror stories written by Joseph Kohtz The Ghoulish Haunted Mansion: On Halloween, a group of kids decides to go inside an old abandoned mansion to see if it's haunted and end up getting scared out of their minds by all sorts of monsters and ghosts. While inside, the kids meet up with a talking cat and jack-o-lantern who try to protect them from the spirits and try to convince one of them to read a spell from a book to get rid of the ghosts. Return to The Ghoulish Haunted Mansion: On a field trip, Susan Piper takes her class to The Wellington Mansion and tells them how it was haunted before she got rid of the ghosts a decade ago on Halloween with her friends' help. She also told her class how to re-haunt the house and warned them not to do so. The next day, on Halloween, six of Susan's students enter the mansion, bring the ghosts and monsters back, and get scared out of their wits. Jack, the jack-o-lantern who knew their teacher, protects them with help from Alvin, the ghost puppy, and tries to convince Victoria to read the same spell Susan read when she was in the mansion to get rid of the ghosts. The Spooky Halloween Sleepover in The Haunted Woods: After a few of their friends go missing, a group of kids investigates The Dead Woods to find them. While there, they run into monsters and ghosts that pick them off. Since their friends are disappearing, they decide to have a sleepover in the haunted woods until they find their friends, but they soon all go missing after the hauntings get worse. Fear Itself: After being told a ghost story around the campfire, a group of kids who go to a camp gets scared to death while ghosts and monsters haunt the camp and forest. They get scared, but some think it's all a prank by one of the counselors at first, even when the campers and the counselors start to get picked off one by one. Even though things look bad, some campers still think it's a fraud, at least until things get worse. Because the longer they stay and ignore the ghosts' warnings, the worse the hauntings get. Then they become convinced and start to get scared out of their wits.

Gary is the cheater with a famous artist. While his wife, Isana, had to work hard to pay off mortgage installments. Winola is a top artist who tends to shackle Gary with her charm since seven years ago. Henry is a dark horse. Henry had to get engaged to Winola due to family compulsion for business reasons. How can these four people relate to each other?

Gary si tukang selingkuh dengan artis ternama. Sementara istrinya, Isana, harus bekerja keras untuk melunasi cicilan KPR rumah. Winola adalah artis papan atas yang cenderung membelenggu Gary dengan pesonanya sejak tujuh tahun lalu. Henry sebagai kuda hitam. Henry harus bertunangan dengan Winola karena paksaan keluarga demi alasan bisnis. Bagaimana empat orang ini bisa saling berhubungan?

Henry Calder always dreamed of becoming a Formula One legend, but betrayal from his best friend, Liam Parker, crushed his ambitions before they could take off. Missing his chance at the Formula One Academy tryouts, Henry spent his life watching others live his dream until tragedy struck. At 43, a fatal car accident ended his unfulfilled life, but in his final moments, he wished for one more chance to race. When Henry wakes up as his 18-year-old self, on the very morning of the tryouts he once missed, he realizes he’s been given a second chance to chase his dream. Armed with the mysterious Racer’s Edge System a powerful tool designed to sharpen his skills and guide his journey Henry is determined to rewrite his destiny. But the road to Formula One is treacherous. Old rivalries resurface, shocking truths come to light, and the pressure of the racing world threatens to overwhelm him. Can Henry overcome his past, outsmart those who stand in his way, and rise to become the greatest driver of all time? The green flag is waving. This is his second lap and this time, he’s going full throttle.

In a world where ancient secrets and advanced technologies collide, Dr. Sophia Kim, a brilliant Korean archaeologist, uncovers a hidden civilization deep within the Amazon rainforest. As she delves deeper into the lost city, she discovers eerie ruins, mysterious artifacts, and cryptic messages hinting at an otherworldly origin. *Main Characters* 1. *Dr. Sophia Kim* (Protagonist): A determined and resourceful archaeologist driven by curiosity and ambition. 2. *Kael*: A rugged, skilled warrior with an unknown past, who joins Sophia's expedition. 3. *Dr. Henry Lee*: A rival archaeologist with ulterior motives. 4. *Aria*: An enigmatic, technologically advanced being from the lost city. *Conflict* 1. *Treacherous Jungle*: The team faces deadly creatures, treacherous terrain, and ancient traps. 2. *Rival Expeditions*: Henry Lee's team threatens Sophia's discoveries and claims. 3. *Ancient Technology*: Unsettling powers and machines awaken, posing existential threats. 4. *Internal Conflict*: Sophia's obsession with uncovering secrets tests her relationships and morality. Action-Packed Plot Twists 1. *Lost City Revelation*: The team discovers ancient structures, artifacts, and writings. 2. *Technological Marvels*: Advanced technology and energy sources are uncovered. 3. *Alien Connection*: Aria's true nature and purpose are revealed. 4. *Battle for Survival*: The team fights against rival expeditions, creatures, and the lost city's defenses.