Enchantress of Venus

by Leigh Brackett

"Enchantress of Venus" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction short story published in 1949. Eric John Stark ventures into the mysterious depths of Inner Venus, seeking his missing friend Helvi in the enigmatic town of Shuruun. After plunging into the legendary Red Sea, Stark discovers a world ruled by god-like beings called the Lhari, who command legions of slaves beneath shrouding veils of mist. Betrayed, enslaved, and fighting for survival, Stark must ignite a rebellion to escape this hidden city of secrets.