So... a lot of people here are focused on the game (NPC) dialog.
The tutorial dialog would also be decent practice but as a firm believer in the natural approach to learning; the real value would be from speaking to other players.

Now, while I understand you wanting to play with your friend, if they simply don't have the time then an MMO might not be right for their schedule. That being said, there is no harm in trying it for a month or two ^^ Don't forget the recruitment code!