Well, there you go. Not as long as the last, but definitely longer than the first! I've improved a lot artistically, but I don't think I've yet recaptured the dramatic punch of that initial story. This chapter, in particular, had a habit of meandering, as its "theme" - getting to know some older, more experienced characters, to go with finding out about the starmetal key - was quite vague, though hopefully it helped give an impression of the world as being beyond just the main characters. I'll have to see what I can do to improve on my writing.

To add a little extra punch to the chapter end, a fine helping of fanart is available for your pleasure.