third entry ⊗ anonymous: dating advice

[flamekthunder]

Sender: Anonymous (Eustace)
To: Everyone EXCEPT TIFA
Subject: Dating Advice

Requesting dating advice.

[ooc: yep that's it that's the post, and it is anonymous! Eustace also can't believe he's doing this but boy he needs it. Those who respond can either be anonymous or have their handle visible. Threads are also completely open to anyone so they can see responses. Eustace's responses will be anon by default (don't make me put the label every time please—)]

Comments

[flamekthunder]

[...Hm.]

I think we've passed that point.

[Full blown musical and tearful confessions and everything.]

[grappleking]

[Well, that's better than he'd expected from Eustace, tbh.]

Okay, so you're stuck on...? Are you trying to figure out what kinds of places to take them?
Let me tell you, if you enjoy each other's company, that's most of it done right there. Wherever you go will be special, because you'll be together.

[flamekthunder]

So I've expected and have heard from most everyone else.

My real hangup has been on what to do, in terms of activities for special occasions like dates. Being ourselves is easy enough, but they deserve something more.

[grappleking]

That part's a little bit tougher. Reverein is growing all the time, but it feels like we're short on options right now.
Plenty of places to eat, at least. And we just got that theater district! You could take her to a play, won't be long before someone puts something like that on.
Otherwise, gotta make use of what we've got. You like nature walks? Ladies like those, makes them think you're real sensitive.

[flamekthunder]

I think we'd rather avoid plays for the time being, but it's an option for the future.

[They're not soured from them forever, just...maybe...not right after...the whole Romeo and Juliet thing ah ha ha...ha....]

What does a nature walk have to do with sensitivity?

[They're just...walks?? Men go out hunting and are out in the forests all the time...]

[grappleking]

You know, because you're looking at flowers and cute animals and stuff.

[It works. He promises.]

Really, here's the thing about dating. There's no hard and fast rules that'll make the experience the same for everyone. So, you said you're already good at being honest with one another about your feelings. Focus on the things you like. The interests you share are important, and it's real good if you pay attention to what THEY like.

[flamekthunder]

[...Is that all really considered sensitive though... Well, he supposes some might think of such things that way?? Anyway.]

Fair enough, it would be pointless to drag them into something I like if they don't. It wouldn't be entertaining for either of us.

Are there any universal...things or activities that shouldn't be done or be avoided?

[grappleking]

Think you just gotta go with common sense on that one. If your gut tells you not to do it, then don't. Maybe avoid something that's a little too close to your day-to-day routine, too. Nothing wrong with enjoying that together, but you want a date to feel special, something apart from the norm, even if it just means trying a new place to eat. And don't talk shop! Leave the rest of your day behind when you go.

[flamekthunder]

[Hmmmm.]

These are all fair points, so I'll keep them in mind, thanks.

You sound fairly experienced.

[grappleking]

I've gotten around. People talk about ladies' men being assholes, but in my experience, being a jerk isn't the way to get girls to go out with you. Gotta show respect, put in the effort.

Haven't really done long-term relationships, life hasn't really allowed for them, but I figure the principle is the same. Everyone wants a partner who thinks of them and their needs. Everybody wants to be seen, you know?

[flamekthunder]

I won't judge as it sounds that you at least treat them fairly.

[...Pause.]

At least I presume you haven't cheated on any of the women you've dated.

[grappleking]

Hell no! I might not be the type someone would wanna settle down with, but that ain't why. Anyone who pulls that deserves their bad rep.

[He's thinking of one of Hilda's classmates in particular...]

Respect, my friend. It's important.

[flamekthunder]

[Good answer, Balthus.]

Agreed.

But thank you for your insight.

[grappleking]

I hope it helps, even a little.

Sounds like you found someone you really care about. Not everyone gets to be that lucky.

[flamekthunder]

[...Hm.]

It really is lucky.

Hopefully you'll find someone for yourself here.

[grappleking]

[Uh—]

I dunno, I'm more of a 'roll with the punches' kind of guy. Not sure I'm long-term boyfriend material, but thanks anyway.

You keep me posted on how things go with this special someone of yours, alright?

[flamekthunder]

[Hmmmm.]

If you say so.

[Considering he was fairly certain he'd die single and alone for the longest time and look where he is now—WHO KNOWS. But he's also not that much of an idealist, it had just been words of general consideration. You do you, Balthus.]

And we'll see.

[Pft as if he would actually announce anything. Maybe Balthus will have a thank you note left later. Maybe.]