**Chapter 2: The Map and the Invitation**

The days passed, and Ayres settled into her new role at the Hawkins' Inn. Jim found himself looking forward to her bright smile and infectious laugh. As they worked together, their banter became easier, and Jim discovered they shared a love for adventure and exploration. One evening, as Jim was sweeping the common room, a commotion erupted outside. A spaceship crash-landed on the outskirts of town, sending debris flying everywhere. Jim's curiosity got the better of him, and he rushed to the scene. A wounded Billy Bones, a pirate Jim had heard of, lay on the ground. Bones handed Jim a dusty, old-fashioned map, his eyes pleading with Jim to take it. "Find the treasure, lad," he whispered, before succumbing to his injuries. Jim returned to the inn, map in hand, and shared the news with Ayres. Her eyes widened as she examined the map, her fingers tracing the strange symbols and markings. "This is incredible," she breathed. "It's a map to Treasure Planet, a legendary world filled with untold riches." Ayres's passion and excitement were contagious, and Jim found himself swept up in her enthusiasm. He confided in her about his dreams of adventure and his desire to find the treasure. Ayres listened intently, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. As they pored over the map, Ayres revealed her knowledge of Astro-Anthropology and Astro-Botanical sciences. Jim was impressed by her intelligence and expertise. The more they talked, the more Jim realized he wanted Ayres to join him on his journey. But Ayres was hesitant, her introverted nature and fear of the unknown holding her back. Jim reassured her, promising to protect and support her on their quest. Eventually, she agreed to join him, and they began making plans to set off on the RLS Legacy, a spaceship captained by Amelia. As they prepared to leave, Jim couldn't help but notice the way Ayres's eyes sparkled when she talked about the adventure. He felt a flutter in his chest, a sense of excitement and nervousness. He pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the journey ahead. The day of their departure arrived, and Jim and Ayres bid farewell to Sarah, who was both worried and proud of her son. As they boarded the RLS Legacy, Jim felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. The journey to Treasure Planet would be fraught with danger, but with Ayres by his side, he felt a sense of reassurance. As the spaceship soared into the sky, Jim turned to Ayres and smiled. "We're in this together, now," he said, his eyes locking onto hers. Ayres smiled back, her eyes sparkling with a mix of fear and excitement. The stars whizzed by, and Jim felt a sense of wonder and awe. He glanced at Ayres, who was gazing out the window, her profile illuminated by the soft light of the stars. He felt a pang of attraction, a sense of connection that went beyond mere friendship. Little did they know, their journey would take them to the depths of space, and into the heart of a legendary treasure. But for now, Jim was content to have Ayres by his side, as they embarked on a cosmic adventure that would change their lives forever.