1) No actual update to the client today, however I'm now in the process of developing a tutorial. The ultimate goal is to transition the dialogue to display at the bottom of the screen alongside a portrait of the speaker. However, dynamic dialogue could also be presented within the game as well. Further testing and observations will determine the route to take with this feature.

2) The character you see in this screenshot is Ifaris the Wizard, in the next update or two you will learn more about his origins and importance to the world.