My Lands: Black Gem Hunting

I am pretty new. I currently have 2 lands and a pit. I specialized in architect. I am finding it tough to develop my pit and main land, so pretty much just slowly monitoring my 2nd land.

What are some strategic goals early game and mid game?

Is the purpose of other domains to build more armies etc to extend your ability to explore and attack ruins?

I have noticed I am gaining Black Gems, but never notice how Iv'e gained them. I thought they only came through salt lakes?

Is there a chat system people use to talk about strategy?

Thats a few questions to start.

In this game, there are three type of the game.
1. stay low rank.
     1.a - rob ruins and offend kids.
     1.b - set up the golden city, and harvests of pearls on auction.
2. create a small army. come to the suzerain rank. and focus on the heroes. - The best option.
3. Create a large army. be online 24/7. - The worst option.(top by A.S.).

one way or another.
at the beginning is focusing on science.

about black gem - lake, grail, ruins, auction.

about chat - helf real players use skype.
but 80% of all players are multi and never answer you.

alone you can't do nothing here. first what you need find a some ally, clan.
you can try find good clan but nobody take you in the good clan.

Thats a few answers to start.