Hello! You weren't kidding when you said that you were new here! And jumping in with both feet, I see... :) You've posted, found The Pub, and joined a Smackdown...I'd say you're finding your way around quite well. If you do find you are having any difficulties or questions, feel free to ask. :)
Thanks... I've been told that my writing is something like Terry Pratchett, I really, really need to check out one of his books. (I had never read anything by Terry Pratchett yet)
I was only able to glace at your story and it does look very good. (better then most fantasy stories that I had seen.)
Your story needs comments so I'll drop that when I finished reading the chapter :)