As with many complex online games, not all the information is going to be handed out to you immediately. Many players that do start Age II wouldn't find it hard to grasp things like Mount (which has a description about what it does, although slightly vague). Players who write the guides that are presented on the forums often do not state the things that seem obvious to them, so much so that its a given that "everyone" would already have the knowledge or be able to figure it out.

I know you are chronicling your experience in Age II, and I do not mean to demean you at all, but the way you present your thread makes me think it is half a guide for the Age I players that decide to try Age II, and half a complaint thread for the hurdles you have to pass over in your transition. I do wish you luck however, and I'm sure if you keep a positive outlook, you will have a lot of fun.

As for advise, like others have said, there are some comprehensive guides out there on the forums, that though may not cover everything, do give a solid run through of the basics; you might have to search a bit harder, as they aren't often sticky-ed, but they do help. They most useful advise I can give you though is to attach yourself to the more experienced Age II players, as that will give you a chance to have a live person to voice your discrepancies to, as well as point out the aspects of the game you might not have thought to look into. The players that have replied on this thread are good candidates, especially tipperary1 (he might suck at AoE, but he makes it up on being an awesome spammer), or the more knowledgeable players in alliances that you join.

Again best of Luck, I hope you come to enjoy the game!