Two things: Firstly, I reworked the database to be much more organized. And I think I will be needing to continually rework the database setup as time goes on, to ensure maximum reliability and minimal queries.
Secondly, I've decided that certain aspects of the game would just be so much better utilizing Flash. So I decided to (re)take up learning AS3. So far so good; managed to learn to build an avoider game with the assistance of some tutorials. I'm learning slowly, but soon I'll be able to utilize all the great features AS3 and Flash have to offer.
I plan on using Flash for: Character Creation, Exploration and Battles. Possibly more. I found tutorials for how JS and AS3 can work together as well. All of this makes for a very powerful combination.
I'll let you guys know when more has come up