One word:  Short.  Really, really short.  But the next chapter and probably more interesting.  ^_~  I have the whole duel written out now, so I'll post the next chapter tomorrow after I proof it.

Chapter 26: Sanctuary of Stone

            "It's my turn again," said the figure.  It drew two cards and studied its hand for a moment.  "I place one card facedown, and summon Gate Dragon in attack mode."           

            The giant blue dragon materialized across from Serenity, growling and showing its rows of gleaming teeth.  It had 1800 attack points and 1900 defense points.

            Could that be a trap card?  thought Serenity to herself, staring at the facedown card across the field.  If it is, I'd be walking right into it. My Earth Guardian is safe, though.  Forest shield protects it for two turns.  In the meantime, I'd better wait to attack and play this instead.

            "I play Keeper of the Temple, in defense mode, with 1700 attack points and 1900 defense points."

            "Too bad," said the figure.  "You really should have attacked me when you had the chance.  Reveal facedown card!  Floating Fortress in defense mode!"

            "Floating Fortress?!" exclaimed Joey.  "What the heck is that?!"

            "It's a rare and powerful card, Joey," answered Yami, who was still in solid form.  "But I'm not sure exactly what it does . . ."

A huge stone fortress with no attack points and 3500 defense points appeared in the air.  It resembled the citadel they were in.  A drawbridge lowered, and the Gate Dragon flew through the large opening.  As it entered the castle, the dragon's attack points rose from 1800 to 2300.

            "Floating Fortress not only raises the attack points of my Gate Dragon, it protects my dragon when it isn't attacking!" proclaimed the figure triumphantly.  "And now, Gate Dragon, attack Keeper of the Temple!"

            The Dragon charged out of the fortress door with alarming speed.  It destroyed the purple-robed monk with one slash of its razor-sharp claws.

             "How does it feel to be on the short end of the stick?" snickered the figure.

            "You haven't won yet," said Serenity.  "I'll beat you even with that fortress protecting your dragon."

Hmm, thought Seto.  Let's see what she does now.  I know a card like Floating Fortress isn't enough to stop a resourceful duelist.

            Okay, two syllables this time: Review!!!!