To answer your question FleshFiend, you all start the game in your own starting areas. The closest time you will get to meeting your friend would be at the first Flight Master. He will allow you to fly to the other Flight Master where you friend can meet you. This is around Rank 7 or 8, of course you can avoid the mobs and try to get to them earlier, just don't forget to build up at least 2 silver for your flight.