No problem, I used to moderate for a group a while back so I have some practice conveying critiques.
Well I was glad I ran into this page, as I really though it was one of the best modern anthros I had yet seen, I'm honestly surprised you don't have a lot more views given the quality of your artwork.
The only time I've been able to replicate the smooth lines effect is if I draw the colors in layers on top of each other and then delete the outlines, but it really only works for me when it's not the outer edge of the character. Also I sorta get what your saying, you start with a silhouette, then add details to that, then colors.
Of course, practice always yields greater results over time, typically one gets better without even consciously trying to do that in the first place.
Anyway, great job. Good luck with future art.