BD area exhibits the same characteristics for me as well.  i figured it was because my systems a little bit older.  Logging out and in does minimize the jerky play.  I also note that my stamina drains very quickly when the display shudders but my travel distance remains dismally small.

On a similar yet different topic.  When zoning (changing maps) if I'm running my stamina completely drains.  Bit of a drag.  At lease most map change area's have a color or light variance that I can use to stop running and minimize the stamina drain.

For me, I received the blades book and shields book before the working with stock book.  I believe this was by design; it requires players participating with other players in order to accomplish the quests.

Quite clever, even with out mining skills you can still perform the quests.

This is certainly an interesting game.  I for one don't mind when it must be taken taken for maintenance, updates, or other additions.  The testing of new features or protocols requiring reboots and tweaking is also fine. javascript:void(0);
thumbup

javascript:void(0);
Off Topic

The quest system takes some getting used to.  Granted I've not been playing very long.  I often am stumped with what the NPC is looking for.