You're correct that skills are raised by usage. When you fight something, you get XP based on combat skills you've used in the past 60 seconds. Which means if you punch monster A to death and then stab monster B to death, you'll still likely get part of the monster's XP as Unarmed XP. It's set up that way because it seems to make more sense for groups. There's no limit to the number of skills you can max out.
Here's the map pics... not super helpful but it's what I have handy! Though those maps really show how much of the area is still undeveloped.
Hmm, race info... the race pages aren't done yet, they're just a bunch of bullet lists right now. Ah, how about this from an upcoming character generation screen. The text is still in the works, but it's ... again, what I have handy
Might be of some use. Or not.
Humans
Racial Culture: Humans are notoriously prudish and petty, but they are extremely loyal to their friends. They value honesty and hard work, and hate lazy people.
Everyone agrees that Humans make excellent traders and negotiators.
Elves say: "They're rude and greedy. And for how much they hate sex, you'd be surprised how horny they are. Oh, but they make great friends! They love trading."
Rakshasa say: "They're trustworthy merchants and they make charismatic leaders. They love feeling in control... it makes them happy. They work incredibly long hours."
Orcs say: "The smart ones have silver tongues and can trick an orc out of his breakfast. But the dumb ones are dumber than any orc! Their warriors are no match for orcs, but their wizards are feared. Human merchant camps are neutral ground, so try not to burn those down too often."
Elves
Racial Culture: Elves are sex-addicted, forest-loving, and obsessively clean. They live a long time and tend to master a lot of skills, but prefer to live a simple life when possible.
Everyone knows that it's nearly impossible to piss off an elf... they're just so friendly! But if you DO get them angry somehow, they never forgive and they never relent.
Humans say: "They're friendly and honest, but don't be fooled: all Elves are disgusting perverts. Many are charm-rapists, too!"
Rakshasa say: "Their laws are surprisingly primitive, they're prone to bouts of depression when lonely, and they're constantly washing their hands. But they're generous and fair, in their way."
Orcs say: "They're easily manipulated. They're dangerous warriors, but then they get freaked out about blood and dirt. That's hilarious. Their men make good stud slaves for our women."
Rakshasa
Racial Culture: although their culture is extremely advanced, many Rakshasa have recently "gone savage", as the Humans put it, leaving their cities and forming camps in the wilderness. It's unclear why.
Rakshasa laws are very unique, and often cause conflict with other races.
Everyone knows that Rakshasa are quick to anger, but most are also quick to forgive. They're also known for their complex sense of justice and their dry sense of humor.
Humans say: "There's two kinds: the city dwellers and the nomads. The city ones keep slaves, which is obscene. But the nomads are pretty lazy, preferring to hunt for sport rather than work to improve themselves."
Elves say: "Talking with Rakshasa is exhausting. It's so easy to upset them! But they're pretty open about sex, and they're very generous."
Orcs say: "Rakshasa are good allies, 'cuz what's not to like about a swordfighting tiger? But never trust 'em. They can turn on you in a second. One second they're helping you 'achieve justice,' and the next second 'you've gone too far and now you must die.' Watch your back around 'em."
