The Ages Beyond Myst

The ending may have been written

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 02:58:09 GMT

Myst Online: Uru Live will be shutting down in 60 days. It's purely a business decision. Cyan is happy enough with GameTap that they're going to remain partners, but Uru will be no more.

I can only hope they provide us with another opportunity to start new Untìl Uru servers.

I hope to see some of you in the cavern for the remainder of the time it's available to us.

episodes?

Sat, 02 Jun 2007 18:47:55 GMT

I go on vacation for 10 days and get back to "welcome to episode 5: scars"?? How much have I missed? How do I catch up??

Updates: March 4th

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 18:43:21 GMT

No "official" events, but the Cavern Choir made its debut. They sound gorgeous. Over 80 people were in attendance, and it was so popular, they had to hold a second concert.

You can listen to a recording via the Choir website, here.

Updates: March 3

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 18:40:55 GMT

The eponymous Nick White visited Ae'gura and announced that Douglas Sharper was meeting with the DRC today. He claims Doug is a "changed man" and regrets much of what happened here several years ago.

Nick also discusses the animal population situation in Negilahn.

Theory: Negilahn's new "big predator" is their reason for why animals don't seem to show up very often in Negilahn compared to what they should. Sharper's connection with hunting poses an elegant solution: the DRC bring him down to hunt the predator, which conveniently re-introduces him to the cavern.

A little while later, Nick visited the Guild of Greeter's Bevin, repeating a lot of what he said earlier. He also mentions that someone "stole" a copy of the Dereno linking book (probably acquired due to a bug). Dereno is another pod Age. The person with Dereno has been sharing it with others. Nick urges people not to use any Dereno book until it's been officially approved for release by the DRC.

Chatlogs

Updates: March 2nd

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 18:34:32 GMT

Nick White was in Ae'gura for a short time. He discussed the gradual disappearance of the animal population of Negilahn. Apparently it's been dwindling for as long as the DRC has been watching it. The remaining population has been very skittish.

Of note: "There's some evidence of what is happening to them.... it's not pretty."
DocOlanA asked, "Predation, or what?"
"I'm going to have to pull a Kodama here... too early to tell. And you know me, I like to talk. But... Imagine a water buffalo in the sahara a few days after a pride of lions has been through the area."

A few hours later in the Great Tree Bevin, explorers were holding a "summoning" vigil for the infamous Douglas Sharper. This echoed the successful "Yeesha summoning" from Feb 20th, but instead of a spiral, explorers arranged themselves in the shape of Sharper's mustache. It was never a serious attempt, but explorers did it for fun regardless. Nick White made an appearance here, as well.

Of note: "Not sure the stache is exactly right. Maybe you could all form the Patriots logo next?"
And then: "There he is on the fountain! Oh wait...."
And finally: "Oh my gosh! You guys won't belive this! I just got a message on my KI... From the man himself. This is nuts!"

Chatlogs

Updates: March 1st

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 19:30:47 GMT

Nick White came to the main city to check on the museum doors, finding them stuck closed he hurried off in search of Victor Laxman.

The mysterious spark (#2) has gone missing from Kadish Tolesa. However, a new one (#3) has appeared in Eder Gira, at the edge of the waterfall just past the large bones. As before, this adds a lantern to the calendar in your Relto. Oddly, this one appears to "blink." Not known if this is intentional or not.

A new bahro stone appears to be making the rounds (i.e. it's randomly placed and isn't permanent), in the Bevin linking room (up against the railing facing the fountain courtyard). It links directly to the large stalactite in the middle of Ae'gura's central courtyard. I believe this is 'hood instanced, so it's an easy way for you and 'hood-mates to go directly to a non-crowded instance of the city without having to go through someone's Relto and their Kadish Gallery link. Of course, if you use the stone in a different 'hood, you'll end up in your own 'hood's instance, unless you share the stone.

The first pod Age, Negilahn, has been released. It's in the Museum. I should note here that some people have confirmed that a spiral will appear in mid-air, which links to a Bahro cave similar to those for Delin and Tsogal. However, exactly how to make this spiral appear is completely unknown at this time.

Unlike most other Ages, the power in this Age isn't always on. It's solar-powered. So it'll work fine during the day, but don't leave the power on if you intend to come back at night. Turn it off, let it recharge.

Updates: Feb 28th

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 19:19:59 GMT

The Museum is now officially open. There are no books inside, however. But there is a new Great Zero Marker, towards the back on the right-hand side.

There's also a new Bahro stone around the back of the Library (you have to walk/jump along the ridge higher up; it's not at ground level). The stone takes you to the top of the pyramid in Kadish Tolesa. There isn't anything special there. Yet.

Update: Feb 26th

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 18:54:16 GMT

After this, I'm back on track.

Nick White made a brief stopover in the city. Not much of a chatlog exists for this. In nearly its entirety, it is: "they are trying to get these doors to open and close properly, but I doubt they will by the time it opens anyway. So it's a waste of time."

Dr. Kodama was back in sil_oh_wet's Bevin, poking around once more. He also said that the Museum should be open this week, "Although it should have been out last week so what do I know." While it's exciting that the Museum will finally be open, this comment is rather telling. Dr. Kodama usually picks his words very carefully. Does this statement provide evidence of some sort of disenchantment with the rest of the DRC?

Also: "Along with [the museum] should be one of the first pod Ages. At least very close to the opening."

"Negilahn should be out." Negilahn can be seen in the top of the two screenshots on this page.

Updates: Feb 18th through 24th

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 15:36:53 GMT

This is my final "catchup post"; following this, I'll just have yesterday to post.

We were "teased" with the door of the Ae'gura Museum opening today... sort of. The door is open, but there are barricades in the way, so no one can get inside the Museum itself. Word on the street is that the door is acting up, and I personally wouldn't want it shooting out of the ground while I'm trying to walk through it.

This is possibly one of the most exciting things we've had happen in Uru, EVER. It's also a great thing to ~~rub in the faces~~ tell the people who are always complaining "there's nothing to do, when will the story start," and so on. The ones who don't listen when you tell them that we make the story.

sil_oh_wet decided to have a sit-in in her Bevin, to "summon" Yeesha. Everyone stood in a spiral formation centred on the fountain. As people left, others took their places. Occasionally they'd all try doing a beckoning movement at the same time, or whatever.

About ten minutes after the official end of the sit-in (which had gone on for about four hours), something fantastic happened: Yeesha's hologram appeared. It didn't last long, and Yeesha didn't say anything, but it showed up in the centre of the fountain.

I suspect that we'll be having a lot more user-generated attempts to change the story from here on out.

Also, the weather changes that Victor Laxman was talking about have come to pass within Eder Delin. There's a light sprinking of snow throughout the Age, and a light smattering of snowflakes are gently falling. Looks pretty; if you can find a 'hood with a Delin book, it's worth the look.

More details

Dr. Kodama makes an appearance in sil_oh_wet's Bevin to inspect the aftermath of Yeesha's appearance. Log

He discusses the Museum door, and the fact that Er'Cana (!!!) should be open in April or May. He also, apparently, temporarily went into one of the numbered doors on the path between the auditorium and the Linking Room. The ones which have always been locked.

Michael Engberg makes an appearance, and asks a favour from explorers: you know those stained-glass windows for Gahreesen? They've got some similar ones for Eder Tsogal and want explorers to help them "restore" them.

Full details are now up at the DRC Site.

The next few days, nothing eventful happens, except UO's ongoing 'Heek tournament.

Updates: Feb 11 through 17

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 20:02:59 GMT

This week, the cavern officially opened to explorers. Woo! So... this is a big update.

A new Age, Eder Tsogal, was opened to explorers today. Most of the Delin books were removed and replaced with the Tsogal books. Tsogal has a similar puzzle to Delin, involving multiple cloths that need to be pushed in a certain sequence to open the door. The "door lights" work fairly consistently, so many have reported that it's easier to solve than Delin.

Explorer Marck has started up a thread listing the known neighborhoods that still have Delin.

Other than the appearance of Tsogal, the cavern is bustling. There are more explorers than I can remember ever seeing before. In fact, many of the servers collapsed, making it hard for people to connect (or to travel from Age to Age once they had connected). Thankfully, after today, the number drops down to more reasonable numbers.

Blake Lewin (VP of Development at GameTap) stopped into the cavern.

Wheely Engberg (Michael's daughter) is back in the cavern after having spent time with her grandparents on the surface. She played 'Heek with many explorers for a while before leaving.

Around the same time, Nick White stops in and discusses some of the changes in the cavern. Thinks Cate "likes Sharper," and so we may be seeing more of Doug in the near future.

Victor Laxman was seen in The Meeting Place's Bevin's Delin, checking some air pressure readings. Expects changes to Delin weather in the next few days - the same kind of unexpected weather which delayed its opening in the first place.

Logs for all four

Updates: Feb 4th through 10th

Sun, 25 Feb 2007 15:02:29 GMT

Also remember that I'm not the only one who "has" to post these: anyone who has an update to provide is welcome to do so. (:

The all-new DRC website comes online. Has a great "real-life" shot of the volcano region. Unfortunately, the DRC forums are taken down by Cate, and she doesn't intend to return them.

Michael Engberg was in the city, inspecting the area around the Library. He expressed his dislike for how quickly some things were moving, and didn't like the DRC forums being taken down. Log

The Library is re-opened. There are still periodic issues with the doors. Aside from the museum, the entirety of the city we had access to before is now open.

A protest is organized regarding the disappearance of the DRC forums. Cate shows up, hoping to engage in some sort of discourse, but is treated rather rudely. Explorers are very abrupt with her.

The DRC forums are re-opened, but are not linked to from the rest of the site. Engberg reports that he was dissatisfied with the protest, since it set back some of his discussions with Cate. Cate decided to put the forums back up in return for some "concessions" on Engberg's part. One of these was apparently the permanent removal of the DRC Liaison forum.

Updates: Jan 30th through Feb 3

Sun, 25 Feb 2007 04:22:46 GMT

As usual, since this is an update post regarding new/changed content in Uru, spoilers abound. If you don't want to hear it, don't read it.

The rope bridge spanning the canyon area opened.

The second "spark" has appeared in Kadish Tolesa, in the Pillar Room. The original spark in Gahreesen can no longer be found, so these are in limited supply. Possibly on the first of each month, we get a new one?

The resulting Relto lantern has what appears to be a stylized D'ni numeral 2, thus confirming that theory, at least.

Nothing eventful happened on the 3rd.

Updates?

Sat, 24 Feb 2007 07:54:40 GMT

Hey, what happened to the updates? I was enjoying those. Nobody even covered the official launch date. Y'all still here?

*crickets*

Updates: January 27th, 29th

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:46:45 GMT

Playing catchup. Sorry.

The rubble has been cleared and the path to the Library has been opened, allowing access to two new GZ markers. Still no bridge, however.

The Bahro stone by the canyon gate at the Ferry Terminal has returned, allowing access to the part of Teledahn with the Dock page for your Relto.

Also, a new Relto page has appeared in Eder Delin, giving Reltos a spiffy new bench to sit on.

The new DRC Site appears to be under construction.

Updates: Jan 21

Mon, 22 Jan 2007 19:03:52 GMT

The Eder Delin door appears to have been slowed down dramatically, taking roughly three times as long to turn as it did originally. This should make it easier to get inside.

Update: January 19

Sat, 20 Jan 2007 06:04:16 GMT

The plan today was for Eder Delin to be placed in roughly 50% of the neighborhoods, with the other 50% reserved for (presumably) Eder Tsogal when it gets released.

The DRC is proud to announce the release of Eder Delin. You will notice the Book is not in every neighborhood. We must insist that you don't start new neighborhoods just to find one with a Book. The next Age will be placed in neighborhoods that don't have an Eder Delin Book.

Feel free to find a public neighborhood or a friend that does have Eder Delin. We'll have the next Age out as soon as possible.

The DRC

This is not what happened.

Eder Delin and Eder Tsogal books were both released, each to their respective 50%, around 11 AM Cavern Time. This lasted somewhere around five minutes before they were recalled. It's unknown if Tsogal is even in a completed state yet.

Around 6PM Cavern Time, Eder Delin Books appeared in all neighborhoods.

In last minute discussions, the DRC decided that placing Eder Delin in a percentage of neighborhoods was ill-advised and problematic.

As a result, we have decided to place the Book in every neighborhood.

We apologize for any confusion. As for the next Age, we'll discuss distribution at a later time.

The DRC

Yes, Delin contains journey cloths and journey doors, but they don't work like the ones we're familiar with. There are explorers who have figured it out (needless to say, it requires multiple explorers), and who have posted pictures of what's beyond the door, but I won't go into such spoilers here. (:

Updates: Jan 18

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 14:31:21 GMT

The Ahyoheek tables are working again.

According to Cate, Eder Delin will be made available today (the 19th). The book will only be in some Neighborhoods, but the DRC has asked that you not join another 'hood just to gain access to a Delin book. Please use the Nexus to visit a 'hood with a book if you want to visit Eder Delin.

(01/19 00:52:40) Cate Alexander: Thank you.
(01/19 00:52:48) Cate Alexander: Everyone doing well?
(01/19 00:53:00) J'mee: Welcome to UO, Cate
(01/19 00:53:02) Talazian: sure am
(01/19 00:53:08) Cate Alexander: I'm
(01/19 00:53:09) pHluid13: yeah.. torturous waiting..
(01/19 00:53:09) Vortmax: Very well, I think. :)
(01/19 00:53:21) Cate Alexander: curious to know if any of you have any comments regarding the DRC site...
(01/19 00:53:25) Vortmax: We're all chomping at the bit to explore Eder Delin :)
(01/19 00:53:40) Whilyam: Age list needs to be updated, Mrs. Alexander
(01/19 00:53:44) J'mee: Well, I like the site. I frequent it every so often.
(01/19 00:53:53) pHluid13: as i understand it doesn't look to be updated in a while.. so i stopped cheking..
(01/19 00:53:55) Talazian: Haven't been there today
(01/19 00:53:56) Vortmax: Updates all over the site would be great.
(01/19 00:53:58) Cate Alexander: What would you like to see on it?
(01/19 00:54:03) Whilyam: Perhaps more frequent updates from the DRC, such as issues inside Ages.
(01/19 00:54:16) J'mee: Yes, progress reports about Age restoration
(01/19 00:54:22) Whilyam: I liked reading about little news bits likt "moved styrofoam to Teledahn" etc.
(01/19 00:55:37) J'mee: Uh, yeah Whilyam, can you elaborate on that?
(01/19 00:55:39) Whilyam: Indeed. No need to make Victor pll out any more of his hair. :)
(01/19 00:55:45) Whilyam: pull*
(01/19 00:55:48) J'mee: Vic has hair?
(01/19 00:55:56) Whilyam: Last time I checked. :P
(01/19 00:55:56) Vortmax: Less every day, J'mee :)
(01/19 00:56:18) Cate Alexander: Let us worry about schedules and when we need to be pushed...
(01/19 00:56:30) Vortmax: Could we get a look at some Age reports on the site? That could be interesting to read.
(01/19 00:56:38) Cate Alexander: Right.
(01/19 00:56:39) J'mee: Perhaps the DRC could post some pictures as they are restoring Ages, even before they are ready for Explorers
(01/19 00:56:42) Whilyam: I agree, Vort.
(01/19 00:56:56) Whilyam: Progress and updates to reflect the current situation.
(01/19 00:57:02) pHluid13: as i understand it.. when someone says they should have something ready, it should be ready, right?
(01/19 00:57:03) Cate Alexander: It seems the consensus is more information on Ages we are working on. More information of any kind...
(01/19 00:57:06) Cate Alexander: Very well...
(01/19 00:57:11) Vortmax: Well, even early reports from current Ages could be very fun to read.
(01/19 00:57:13) Cate Alexander: I'll make a note of it.
(01/19 00:57:22) J'mee: I'd like info on any wildlife they encounter.
(01/19 00:57:28) Whilyam: Perhaps Victor could add some sounds and pictures from an Age?
(01/19 00:57:29) J'mee: THAT would be interesting
(01/19 00:57:30) Vortmax: We always want more ;)
(01/19 00:57:32) BrettM: Yes, and I would like to see the old Age detail pages restored.
(01/19 00:57:43) pHluid13: yeah it seems like most of the time we just sit here and wait for the drc to do something.. it would be nice to have something to do in the meantine
(01/19 00:58:00) J'mee: One thing that I've been wishing - the old timeline that one could clickon to see the old Age reports
(01/19 00:58:00) Vortmax: Could I ask an unreleated question?
(01/19 00:58:12) Cate Alexander: Shoot away.
(01/19 00:58:52) Vortmax: Many of the explorers have expertise which could be useful to the Restoration, and would love to volunteer. Would you be interested in making use of them? Many would be happy just helping to clear rubble :)
(01/19 00:59:16) Vortmax: Down the road, not next week or anything :)
(01/19 00:59:36) J'mee: Cate, would you be able to shed any light on what has happened to Dr. Watson?
(01/19 00:59:37) Cate Alexander: Right... it's in our long range plans but difficult to implement.
(01/19 00:59:49) Cate Alexander: I can not... I have no idea where Dr. Watson is.
(01/19 00:59:49) J'mee: Has anyone spoken with him recently?
(01/19 00:59:51) Vortmax: Understood. I'm just glad to know you're thinking about it. :)
(01/19 00:59:54) Whilyam: And about pushing. Yes, it is your responsbility, however, take care to remember the past, Cate. We don't need a repeat of Phil's "incident."
(01/19 00:59:57) Cate Alexander: No that I'm aware of.
(01/19 01:00:24) BrettM: Ms. Alexander, are you taking any steps to investigate Dr. Watson's or Phil Henderson's whereabouts?
(01/19 01:00:30) Cate Alexander: Thank you Whilyam - I'm well aware of proper safety measures...
(01/19 01:00:37) Whilyam: Good.
(01/19 01:00:38) J'mee: No sign of Phil was ever found...
(01/19 01:00:38) Cate Alexander: No.
(01/19 01:00:59) Cate Alexander: This can be a dangerous place.
[At this point Ms. Alexander suddenly vanished.]
[Several minutes later she returned.]
(01/19 01:28:54) BrettM: welcome back, Ms. Alexander.
(01/19 01:29:03) Cate Alexander: Sorry about that.
(01/19 01:29:09) Vortmax: Hello again Cate! It would seem this place CAN be dangerous...
(01/19 01:29:16) Cate Alexander: Funny timing.
(01/19 01:29:23) Vortmax: We were quite amused :)
(01/19 01:29:25) Cate Alexander: Next thing I knew I was heading to my Relto.
(01/19 01:29:44) Cate Alexander: I didn't need any rumors started so I figured I neede to return and let you know I wasn't snatched away by a Bahro.
(01/19 01:30:03) BrettM: What explanation do you have, then?
(01/19 01:30:15) Cate Alexander: I don't have one at all.
(01/19 01:30:38) Vortmax: DESTRUCTION IS COMING!
(01/19 01:30:38) Vortmax: That's my explanation
(01/19 01:30:43) BrettM: No, magic linking abilities? B-)
(01/19 01:30:48) Cate Alexander: Hmm..yes, not if I can help it.
(01/19 01:30:59) Cate Alexander: Sorry..I'm not Yeesha.
(01/19 01:31:15) BrettM: That's pretty clear. No tattoos.
(01/19 01:31:17) Cate Alexander: Regardless, thanks for the input on the website.
(01/19 01:31:26) Vortmax: Ah, but there was that theory that you were Yeesha's daughter...
(01/19 01:31:27) Vortmax starts to laugh
(01/19 01:31:30) Cate Alexander: I'll consider and pass them along.
(01/19 01:31:34) BrettM laughs
(01/19 01:31:35) pHluid13: I have a great question to ask of you Cate..
(01/19 01:31:44) Cate Alexander: Yes, one more and I do need to get going.
(01/19 01:31:45) pHluid13: have you ever seen a Bahro?
(01/19 01:31:57) Whilyam: On that topic, Cate. . Perhaps have the Main DRC list their favorite Ages? Might add to the "friendlier DRC"
(01/19 01:32:15) pHluid13: in person
(01/19 01:32:23) Cate Alexander: I've seen things that I think are Bahro but who is to know....
(01/19 01:32:46) Gondar: ...figures I get here just as Cate has to go :-(
(01/19 01:32:49) BrettM: Then you haven't taken Yeesha's journey?
(01/19 01:33:01) Cate Alexander: I have.
(01/19 01:33:02) Gondar is a bit upset...
(01/19 01:33:03) pHluid13: i know.. seems like our time with Cate is always limited..
(01/19 01:33:19) Cate Alexander: I am buys.
(01/19 01:33:19) pHluid13: Cate: you should really talk to the DRC about you staying in cavern more often....
(01/19 01:33:25) Cate Alexander: Busy.
(01/19 01:33:30) Vortmax: Oh, she's in the Cavern, just busy elsewhere :)
(01/19 01:33:31) Gondar: That's ok, Ms. Alexander.. it's my own bad luck.
(01/19 01:33:42) Gondar: I haven't seen a single DRC except in passing since I returned...
(01/19 01:33:55) pHluid13: but we just enjoy your company.. and you simply dont visit often enough.. :)
(01/19 01:33:56) Ashtar: Looks like I came in at the wrong time, but it was good to finally meet up with you Cate.
(01/19 01:33:56) Time: I heard you were asking for suggestions about the DRC website? If that's the case Might i request some mention fo the site on a document or two here in the cavern.
(01/19 01:34:03) Cate Alexander: The DRC is busy as well. Everyone tries to find time here at least a bit but it's hard.
(01/19 01:34:13) Cate Alexander: You want new Ages, I would presume, more than visits...
(01/19 01:34:22) Butch: Ms. Alexander, some of the other explorers were asking if the DRC had anything to say about the Explorer meeting this last Saturday.
(01/19 01:34:35) Cate Alexander: I'm not sure I'm aware of the meeting...
(01/19 01:34:35) Whilyam: Yes, but I also like to hear how things are going.
(01/19 01:34:39) pHluid13: true, i shoose an age over you any day.. just kidding..
(01/19 01:34:44) Cate Alexander: What meeting?
(01/19 01:35:03) Whilyam: An Explorere meeting
(01/19 01:35:12) Butch: Just a group that got together to talk about things.
(01/19 01:35:19) Whilyam: About many things like communication in the Cavern.
(01/19 01:35:30) Cate Alexander: And was there something worrisome about this group?
(01/19 01:35:38) Whilyam: We thought the DRC might wantto use the KImail system more
(01/19 01:35:42) Cate Alexander: I assume explorers get together all the time to talk about things.
(01/19 01:35:49) Whilyam: Not in such numbers, Cate.
(01/19 01:35:58) Cate Alexander: Very good.
(01/19 01:35:58) J'mee: Yeah, KI mail is very underutilized
(01/19 01:36:15) Cate Alexander: We use KI Mail when we see the need.
(01/19 01:36:29) Whilyam: KI mail and the Imagers. Those were stated as the best ways to increase news flow in cavern.
(01/19 01:36:34) Cate Alexander: But with all of our procedures, we are looking at improvements. I'll keep your thoughts in mind.
(01/19 01:36:41) Time agrees with Whilyam
(01/19 01:36:44) Vortmax: Thanks. That's all we can ask.
(01/19 01:36:47) BrettM: That's very good to hear.
(01/19 01:36:48) J'mee: Thank you
(01/19 01:37:01) Cate Alexander: Of course.
(01/19 01:37:05) Time: Thanks, Cate. Glad to see you asking for our opinions. ^_^
(01/19 01:37:08) pHluid13: Thank You Cate for the visit and follow up
(01/19 01:37:17) J'mee: Has anyone suggested imagers around the City for message postings?
(01/19 01:37:24) Cate Alexander: Yes.
(01/19 01:37:28) J'mee: okay
(01/19 01:37:38) Whilyam: There are some in the Kahlo Pub that may work well for that.
(01/19 01:37:45) Vortmax: Yes, perhaps you could get the imager in the pub working
(01/19 01:37:54) Vortmax: That could be ideal
(01/19 01:38:08) Time once again agrees with Whilyam, and Vortmax.
(01/19 01:38:21) Cate Alexander: We have brought that up as well.
(01/19 01:38:22) Gondar: Next step we need is KI chat channels, and on-KI bulletin board system for quick discussion.. :-)
(01/19 01:38:25) Whilyam: Perhaps even hanging some others around the City with news from the Cavern.
(01/19 01:38:44) Cate Alexander: There is much that can be done - some of it we will get to faster than others.
(01/19 01:38:48) BrettM: Or perhaps a large imager in the community room for broadcasts.
(01/19 01:39:01) Gondar: Yeah, larger imagers that hold more text..
(01/19 01:39:04) Cate Alexander: We'll all have to live with the pace but trust I have noted your concerns.
(01/19 01:39:04) Vortmax: Well, just keep them in mind for the future smile.gif
(01/19 01:39:15) J'mee: Once, long ago, there was a very nice Cavern Today newsletter, with columns.
(01/19 01:39:17) Gondar: It's ok... we can be patient.
(01/19 01:39:20) Whilyam: Unrelated question, Cate. Do you know when the other Eder, Tsogahl, will be ready to be released?
(01/19 01:39:22) pHluid13: We trust you wont let us down Cate..
(01/19 01:39:29) Cate Alexander: Thank you for your time...I do need to get along to another meeting. A final check of Delin.
(01/19 01:39:37) Gondar cheers
(01/19 01:39:38) Vortmax: Good luck! We can't wait!
(01/19 01:39:41) Whilyam claps his hands
(01/19 01:39:44) Time: Yup. I can wait as long as it takes. It's just good to hear you're thinking of solutions to things and working on them.
(01/19 01:39:45) LdyDrgn claps her hands
(01/19 01:39:45) Ashtar: Need any help Cate? smile.gif
(01/19 01:39:46) pHluid13: Cate: can we come with you? lol
(01/19 01:39:46) imara: Thank you
(01/19 01:39:49) BrettM: TThank you for YOUR time.
(01/19 01:39:49) J'mee: Thanks, again for stopping by!
(01/19 01:39:52) Vortmax thinkgs good thoughts about Delin's weather
(01/19 01:39:52) Cate Alexander: Yes, it will be good to release something new.
(01/19 01:40:01) Cate Alexander: We'll talk to you later.

Updates: Jan 16 and 17th

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:01:45 GMT

Sorry for the delay, I've been busy with the new content one one of my favorite MMOs. Burning Crusade or the new Uru patch? You decide.

There's a spark, for lack of a better term, in Gahreesen.

You know the new sundial sorta page you can get from the Desert near Zandi's trailer? There's a smallish sundial in one corridor (in the corner) in the larger building in Gahreesen. A little multicoloured spark floats above it.

If you pick it up, your Relto book flashes, like getting a new page, but there's a different sound to it. If you visit your Relto, there's a new little lantern sitting at the edge of one of the spokes. Carved into it is what seems to be a stylized D'ni number 1.

This spoke is just to the left of the "entrance" of the sundial, and right at the beginning of the spiral painted onto the sundial. There are twelve spokes in total. Some people have suggested that we'll be getting one lantern each month. At the end, it might be possible that the whole thing becomes a Myst V-style linking bubble. There are other theories, but that's the one I find most compelling, personally.

Also, the Great Zero is open. Linking books (yes, books. Don't ask me) to the GZ have appeared in the right-most pedestal in every 'hood's linking room. Of the 30 markers needed to complete calibration, only 20 or so are currently available. Every marker in the Bevins seems to be gone, so the remaining markers will probably show up in other areas, possibly areas we haven't previously had access to.

Also, with the Gallery open, it's possible to avoid the crowded city by going through your personal Gallery link in order to do your Marker run.

For the 17th, nothing notable happened in-cavern. However, all the remaining DRC Liaisons have tendered their resignations. The DRC is not, at this time, seeking to replace them.

(01/17 17:46:07) Dr. Kodama: For those who have not heard, the Liaisons have resigned as of about an hour ago.
(01/17 17:46:51) Dr. Kodama: The DRC has accepted their resignation and done away with the position.
(01/17 17:47:35) Dr. Kodama: Perhaps things may change in the future but for the present, the Liasison position is no longer necessry.

I understand. I'd say I miss them, but none of them are going anywhere, they just won't be liaisons anymore.

Updates Jan 12

Sat, 13 Jan 2007 17:24:34 GMT

Around 8:30pm, the barriers came down, and the path up to the Hall of Kings is now open. So everyone can read up on the kings of D'ni and register their KIs in the Nexus terminal there.

That leaves us the Library, the bridge, and the Museum before Ae'gura is "fully open," at least insofar as it has been the last couple of years. Plus we have the gallery now, too.

In sadder news, CAGrayWolf has resigned his post as DRC Liaison. For now, Professor Askew will be filling his shoes.

Updates Jan 11

Thu, 11 Jan 2007 23:22:13 GMT

The barriers leading to the Concert Hall Foyer are gone. Nick White made an appearance to check it out.

He hopped some barriers and knocked some cones off a cliff. Said he personally doesn't care where explorers go. Things Laxman running away from Cate is funny, and he heard from Douglas Sharper recently.

Updates, Jan 10th

Thu, 11 Jan 2007 02:39:42 GMT

The meditation room (aka the "egg room") has been reopened. Actually, this happened yesterday morning, but none of the people who noticed it actually said anything about it. There's still a bug where, if you (fr'ex) Relto out of a closed chamber, your KI will remain "muted." The solution is just to go back into a chamber, close the door, then open the door. That should fix things.

Today, the docks opened back up at the Ferry Terminal.

Cate was on earlier today for about five minutes, sticking to her Relto. Later, she was on for quite a while, and spent the whole time in the Nexus:

Vortmax had a private meeting with Cate and got info on a possible release for a new age early next week (hopefully). And also, the reopening of the Great Zero. She also announced the opening of the Ferry Docks. I dont have a chatlog of Cate's meeting, but Vortmax wanted everyone to spread the news.

So there you have it.

Chatlog - Laxman and Alexander, Jan 9

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 05:19:30 GMT

Full chatlog available here.\

[Victor Laxman attempted to link to the Ferry Terminal, but had some difficulty.]
[Much waiting for Laxman to complete the link-in to the Ferry Terminal ensued.]
(01/09 19:27:43) Victor Laxman: Excuse me - quick check. Are all of the Nexus book MT stations working?

(01/09 19:27:53) BrettM: Yes, Mr. Laxman.
(01/09 19:27:58) ian1: I think so
(01/09 19:28:07) Isyldar: the last time i checked, they were
(01/09 19:28:26) BrettM: The stations that are available to us, anyway. B-)
(01/09 19:28:35) Victor Laxman: Ferry Terminal station is working?
(01/09 19:28:41) Deathsbedbug: i finally saw them in my nexus book when i came in
(01/09 19:28:48) Deathsbedbug: yes mr laxman
(01/09 19:28:48) Thanakar: Yes it is Victor
(01/09 19:28:49) ian1: probably.
(01/09 19:28:52) BrettM: Yes, sir. Just crowded.
(01/09 19:28:53) Dudemom_2000: yes, Mr. Laxman
(01/09 19:28:56) Isyldar: it is.
(01/09 19:29:04) Isyldar: Robert and I checked it out a few minutes ago
(01/09 19:30:37) Victor Laxman: Just worried about GZ and lattice issues right now.
(01/09 19:30:55) Victor Laxman: Always tougher than it looks.
(01/09 19:31:12) Victor Laxman: Blasted D'ni technology.
(01/09 19:35:09) Victor Laxman: Can someone see if the Tokotah Alley station recognizes your KI?
(01/09 19:35:25) Baldan: it did
(01/09 19:35:36) Victor Laxman: No problems?
(01/09 19:35:45) Baldan: said it added a link to my Nexus
(01/09 19:36:05) Victor Laxman: Thank you. That helps.
(01/09 19:37:04) Victor Laxman: I'm going to come check it.

[While Laxman appeared to be stuck, Cate Alexander appeared in the Nexus. Laxman finally vanished.]
[Laxman finally re-linked in to Tokotah Alley.]
(01/09 19:55:27) ian1: Welcome victor
(01/09 19:55:52) Victor Laxman: thankk you ian
(01/09 19:56:07) Mike2: hello Victor
(01/09 19:56:16) BrettM: Glad you could finally get linked in.
(01/09 19:56:42) BrettM: Mr. Laxman, will you be able to meet Ms. Alexander's schedule for activating the GZ?
(01/09 19:57:12) Victor Laxman: Trouble, nothing but trouble. No promises.
(01/09 19:57:34) BrettM: We're sorry to hear that.
(01/09 19:57:55) Victor Laxman: Yeah, it's always something.

[At this point Cate Alexander linked in at the Ferry Terminal. Before she could reach the Plaza, Laxman Reltoed in a great hurry.]
(01/09 19:58:15) Victor Laxman: I've go to go.
(01/09 19:58:44) ian1: hello cate.
(01/09 19:59:27) Cate Alexander: Anyone seen Victor?
(01/09 19:59:33) BrettM: Good evening, Ms. Alexander. He just left.
(01/09 19:59:35) Thanakar: he just Reltoed out
(01/09 19:59:54) Cate Alexander: Hmm...
(01/09 20:00:20) Cate Alexander: How long was he here?
(01/09 20:00:31) naru'dak: whats the problem ms alexander
(01/09 20:00:33) BrettM: Mr. Laxman seemed rather stressed. He wasn't here long.
(01/09 20:00:56) Cate Alexander: He's working hard but evidently not hard enough.
(01/09 20:01:10) Cate Alexander: I was expecting some things to be done that aren't yet.
(01/09 20:01:23) Lyn'et: He even ignored our offers to help
(01/09 20:01:35) Dudemom_2000: He said something about the Nexus, Ms. Alexander
(01/09 20:01:52) BrettM: He was complaining of troubles.
(01/09 20:01:57) Cate Alexander: Did he say anything about the Great Zero?
(01/09 20:02:04) Deathsbedbug: no cate he did not
(01/09 20:02:05) Finn: Indeed he did
(01/09 20:02:09) BrettM: Very little.
(01/09 20:02:09) Dudemom_2000: Yes, He mentioned the Great Zero
(01/09 20:02:11) ian1: He asked if the terminals in the city were working properly.
(01/09 20:02:26) Mike2: he said its very troublesome
(01/09 20:02:38) Thanakar: he mentioned no promises but lots of trouble
(01/09 20:02:40) Moleque: He said "troubles, nothing but troubles. no promises."
(01/09 20:03:00) Cate Alexander: I'm sure he'll tell me the same thing when I find him.
(01/09 20:03:12) BrettM: I believe Mr. Laxman is uncertain about meeting your schedule.
(01/09 20:03:13) Butch: Ms. Alexander, is there anything we can do to help you tonight?
(01/09 20:03:14) Deathsbedbug: what can we do to help cate?
(01/09 20:03:34) Cate Alexander: Consider this a warning - I don't expect us to open the Great Zero on time.
(01/09 20:03:45) ian1: Yeah. I think we may be able to help
(01/09 20:03:47) Cate Alexander: I apologize.
(01/09 20:03:58) Moleque: erm... Ms. Alexander
(01/09 20:03:59) Dudemom_2000: Anything we can do, Ms. Alexander....
(01/09 20:04:02) Butch: Thank you for your honesty. We appreciate that.
(01/09 20:04:14) Mike2: im just happy it will be here eventually
(01/09 20:04:16) Cate Alexander: I'm pushing him to work the weekend so I hope it will still be soon.
(01/09 20:04:45) BrettM: Technology takes time. We don't begrudge the time to get it right.
(01/09 20:05:01) Dudemom_2000 nods
(01/09 20:05:09) Cate Alexander: You are more forgiving than me.
(01/09 20:05:10) ian1: The new age will be on schedule though, right?
(01/09 20:05:25) Cate Alexander: I'd like us to meet our deadlines.
(01/09 20:05:50) Cate Alexander: I'm not sure Ian. That's why I'm a little irritated tonight.
(01/09 20:06:04) Cate Alexander: I need to talk to Victor.
(01/09 20:06:08) Thanakar: Cate, what is holding things up?
(01/09 20:06:16) Cate Alexander: Ask Victor.
(01/09 20:06:30) Dudemom_2000: If we see him again, we will tell him you need to see him right away
(01/09 20:06:31) J'iim: Victor is in the Nexus now Cate
(01/09 20:06:52) Cate Alexander: Thanks J'iim. I'm off.
(01/09 20:06:54) Vixen Online: poor victor
(01/09 20:07:06) Mike2: bye Cate
(01/09 20:07:06) Vixen Online gives victor a hug
(01/09 20:07:12) BrettM: It was good to see you, Ms. Alexander.

[Shortly thereafter, both Alexander and Laxman were detected in a Bevin via KI. Apparently a private one, as no one reported seeing them in any of the public hoods. They remained there for several minutes.]

Update January 5

Sat, 06 Jan 2007 04:51:57 GMT

Nothing much new to report today, except that the Island Yeesha page seems to have made a re-appearance. It is, at least, in the Beginner's Bevin - don't know if it's elsewhere yet.

I was told that the ResEngs verified and authorized it an hour or two back. One of them seems to have thought it was a bug, then later changed his mind. All I know is that it wasn't there yesterday.

RAWA's Cautious Optimism scale went up by one today due to "transmission error (I'll let you find it for yourself)." Don't know if he's referring to this or not. What I do know is that the Yellow portion of the CO scale tops out at FFFF99 (FFFF99), and we're at FFFF98 (FFFF98). It goes Blue when Uru launches, and goes Green when Uru becomes self-sustaining.

Updates for January 4

Fri, 05 Jan 2007 15:59:25 GMT

Apparently, just before midnight on the 3rd, Michael Engberg hung out for a few minutes in the city, because he couldn't sleep. He asked how everyone's holidays went and said his Christmas with Wheely was great. Below is an edited transcript. The original can be found here.

(01/04 23:40:52) Michael Engberg: Good morning.
(01/04 23:41:02) Hitana waves
(01/04 23:41:14) Michael Engberg: Hello.
(01/04 23:42:17) Michael Engberg: Hello. I'm not here for any announcements, I just couldn't sleep so thought I'd walk around the cavern a bit.
(01/04 23:42:37) John Lynch: Aaah well we're always happy to have you down here to talk with us. Did you have a nice Christmas with Wheely?
(01/04 23:43:00) Michael Engberg: We had a very nice Christmas. Thank you.
(01/04 23:43:15) Michael Engberg: How was yours?
(01/04 23:43:20) Ragdrazi: So... as apposed to not sleeping and walking around cavern. Could you not sleeping and hand me a hard hat?
(01/04 23:43:36) John Lynch: Pretty good. Fairly quiet though. Called my parents in Australia :)
(01/04 23:44:41) Michael Engberg: Rag - If you're intent enough on exploring to need a hard hat, I'm sure you'll be able to find one on your own. There are pleny laying about.
(01/04 23:45:01) Ragdrazi: ...
(01/04 23:45:14) Ragdrazi looks around.
(01/04 23:45:26) Erik: Ragdrazi, John and I have one too, it's not hard to find one.
(01/04 23:45:30) John Lynch: Michael: Something I thought of last week Marie might want to find out. Was the D'ni on Noloben ever contacted after the 19th scream? With him not having a Relto book (I assume) he may or may not have been affected. If he was he might be -very- confused.
(01/04 23:45:40) Ragdrazi: None here.
(01/04 23:46:05) Ragdrazi: Not here either.
(01/04 23:46:08) John Lynch: Also we've heard or read he knows something about "creatures" which some of us think are Bahro, so if he does know about the Bahro then he might know -why- they linked everyone like they did.
(01/04 23:46:41) Ragdrazi: Hmmm. Not over here either.
(01/04 23:46:41) John Lynch: I've been looking for Marie to suggest that to but I haven't been able to find her (just bad luck, I'm sleeping when she's awake and around, she's busy when I'm awake).
(01/04 23:46:42) Michael Engberg: John, we thought about that, actually. The D'ni who was on Noloben is no longer there.
(01/04 23:46:45) Ragdrazi: Well, I give up.
(01/04 23:46:58) Hitana: do you know where he had gone?
(01/04 23:47:02) Erik: that's interesting
(01/04 23:47:52) Michael Engberg: It didn't look like he had been there for months.
(01/04 23:48:14) John Lynch: Aaah okay. Well I hope he wasn't affected regardless. I'll be on the lookout for him just in case though.
(01/04 23:49:15) Michael Engberg: John, that definitely wouldn't hurt.
(01/04 23:49:50) Hitana: what do you think of cate alexander?
(01/04 23:50:18) John Lynch: Her announcements certainly took all of us by surprise. Were the DRC just as surprised or have you been preparing the areas she announced for a little bit now? :)
(01/04 23:50:37) Erik: By the way, I would like to thank you all at the DRC for you hard work. Cate seems to be really pushing you (that's what she saying at least).
(01/04 23:51:56) Saruk: Well darn, if I don't leave right now, I'll be late for work... LOL
(01/04 23:51:57) Michael Engberg: Hitana, Hmm... she's a nice enough person.
(01/04 23:52:24) Erik: Bye Saruk, it's a long trip to the surface. Good luck.
(01/04 23:52:37) John Lynch: Bye Saruk. Sorry to see you go.
(01/04 23:52:50) Saruk: Nice to see you again Mr. Engberg
(01/04 23:53:17) Saruk waves
(01/04 23:53:29) Michael Engberg: John, we've been working on areas for a long time.
(01/04 23:53:34) Michael Engberg: Bye, Saruk
(01/04 23:54:15) Michael Engberg: John, even with Cate's pushing, we'll continue to do our best to make sure areas are safe before opening them
(01/04 23:54:48) John Lynch: That's been a concern of mine, not now, but in the future. Connected to that, something one of the DRC said was that safety is no longer the only issue when deciding if you can open an area. Can you expand on that a bit? What others issues there are to consider in releasing areas?
(01/04 23:55:12) Michael Engberg: But you all know the golden rule. The with the gold makes the rules.
(01/04 23:55:32) Michael Engberg: (the one with the gold...)
(01/04 23:55:51) Ragdrazi: That's fine, but... isn't she just being phalthophic.
(01/04 23:56:14) Michael Engberg looks for a dictionary.
(01/04 23:56:36) John Lynch: Philanthropic I think he means ;) As in, doing it out of charity and not for profit.
(01/04 23:57:03) Ragdrazi: Yes.
(01/04 23:57:46) Ragdrazi: She just looking to get her name in the histroy books really hard? At best she's a foot note.
(01/04 23:57:54) Michael Engberg: John, safety has never been the "only" concern. There are always many factors to take into account
(01/04 23:58:35) John Lynch: Really? Learn something new every day :)
(01/04 23:59:22) Erik: Mr Engberg, were the gallery doors broken deliberate (maybe by Kadish himself)?
(01/04 23:59:42) Michael Engberg: Rag, It's hard to say. I think it's safe to say that she wants a return on her investment.
(01/05 00:00:40) Michael Engberg: but I think that's true of anyone who makes an investment, isn't it?
(01/05 00:00:57) John Lynch: With (what I imagine) the restoration costing so much, I'd be surprised if the money us explorers donate will allow that... I mean, these are real buildings that need repairing. Real technology that needs fixing. I doubt even a -ton- of explorers could fund that sort of thing.
(01/05 00:01:40) Michael Engberg: Erik, I couldn't say with 100% certainty, but yes, it looked deliberate to me.
(01/05 00:02:01) Erik: Thank you... that's interesting.
(01/05 00:02:10) Ragdrazi: Yeah. I mean... it's pretty average funding things, and i think a lot of people are over reacting to her. But, I mean... selling items to musemus? Reverse enginering linking books?
(01/05 00:03:27) Michael Engberg: John, yes, the restoration is expensive, even with us working with less than half the staff of last time
(01/05 00:05:11) Michael Engberg: John, and there are no guarantees that Cate will see a return on her investment. I'm glad for another opportunity to try, though. :)
(01/05 00:05:43) John Lynch: Same. :) I think 2004 and 2005 proved to everyone how much we need the DRC down here :) Great to have you back again, that's for sure.
(01/05 00:06:04) Michael Engberg: Rag, the nicest thing happening now is getting to spend time with my daughter.
(01/05 00:06:23) Michael Engberg: Thanks, John.
(01/05 00:06:49) Ragdrazi: Aww. Yeah, I've got a 4 year old little sis and two nephews myself.
(01/05 00:07:51) Michael Engberg: Speaking of which, I really should be getting back home. But thanks, everyone for the nice, informal chat.
(01/05 00:08:14) Lie'Ra: thank you for spending some time with us
(01/05 00:08:21) Ragdrazi waves
(01/05 00:08:26) Hitana thanks you
(01/05 00:08:31) Michael Engberg waves

It's interesting to note that the D'ni on Noloben (Escher) is no longer around. Has he run off to parts unknown to command the Bahro at his will, or have they gotten him and are doing what they will to him?

Later in the day, at almost exactly 11:30am, the barricades blocking the Canyon came down. It was funny - there were a load of people standing in front of them, waiting. One explorer, whose name I don't quite recall, yelled "FRIEND!" Nothing happened. I said "Mellon!" The barricades disappeared. ;)

So now it's possible to explore all the way to the stairs leading to the concert hall. You can jump over those barricades, actually, but you can't get over the ones at the top of the stairs looking at the concert hall corridor. And, of course, the Gallery is open.

This also means that, when in the non-public instance of the city accessible through the Kadish Gallery panel in your Relto, or via the Gallery linking book in Kadish Tolesa, you can explore the canyon, courtyard and the Great Stairs.

meeting with Cate

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 22:59:39 GMT

Cate Alexander and the DRC held a meeting in A Beginner's Bevin today. Here's a chat log of what went on.

Content update:
the city courtyard has been opened today.

the city canyon will open up tomorrow.

The GZ as well as a new age will be available next week.