6K words is quiet an effort. That isn't a problem necessarily. I personally find such a lengthy post difficult to read on a computer. My concentration starts going. And that has nothing to do with the quality of the writing. I find that I naturally write a little different for a computer based audience. Like breaking parts up into approx 1500 word segments, so long as it keeps in flow with the story.

You do what works best for you, and you seem to be getting good help from the Workshop on that front. I think their advice is leading you in the right direction.

But back to your story - well worth reading. I am not a big reader of fantasy itself, but if the key elements are done well then I can get pulled into the story. And you did that. I am intrigued and curious about the direction, the backstory, the setting. Keep going.