The Uncharted Path of Friendship

Previously

…The sharp, decisive rap at her door startled her, and the map, still spread open, fluttered precariously. “Come in!” she called, her voice a little breathless. The door creaked open, revealing Liam, his brow furrowed in that familiar expression of concerned pragmatism. He stood framed in the doorway, a sturdy, grounded presence against the wild allure of the map. His worn leather satchel slung over his shoulder, a testament to his own methodical preparations for… well, for whatever mundane task he usually found himself embroiled in. Today, however, his