I wanted to get more done before posting the progress, but because it's taking a while, I'll post what I got done so far.
I applied some of suggestions you guys gave me. let me know what you all think of the progress.
I can understand that the dithering may be a little much, Faceless. It's just something I want to work with. I may do a non-dithered version later.
Oh, and about the stereotype of reptiles being slimey, I can assure you, Faceless that they're not. I've handled reptiles and there's no hint of slime on them. I believe you may be confused with snails and slugs (which are not reptiles).
As for anatomy, yeah, it's certainly not of human proportions, but that's how they're supposed to be (especially in the comics universe).
The plastron in your edit is nice, but it looks like his torso is facing mostly forward, which is not what I want.
Here's some pics of the style I'm working with so you all know where I'm coming from with this art peice...