Mission 1 Emergency Request [Help me with dinner]
Mission
1
Emergency Request [Help me with dinner]
Comments posted by a Geek thread netizen: <OK, I admit it. At first, I thought Train Man was a wimp. I mean, he was taking forever just to work up the courage to call and thank her but I thought we should stick by him and cheer him on. But now he’s gone further than I could have imagined.>
731 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:25
Sorry. I may end up betraying you guys.
I’m no good at writing so don’t know how well I can tell this story.
Damn. This thread’s got something going on . . .
May the force be with you . . .
No way could anybody have known that this board, commonly composed of banal postings, was about to morph into a support group and fan club for Train Man.
732 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:27
freakinfrakinfreakinfrakinnnnnnnn
733 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:28
what’s goin’ on man?
734 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:28
>>731
did you get a girlfriend?
737 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:33
>>734
sadly no. But something really big came up. This kind of stuff sounds too much like I’m making it up. Anyway, the point is that you guys really need to get out more . . .
738 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:35
sorry. Ok, I thought about it some more and it’s actually not such a big deal . . .
Deep breath . . .
739 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 21:36
>>737
how many times have I typed this,
d.e.t.a.i.l.s por favor
740 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 21:38
>>739
It’s gonna come out all weird.
But I’ll try anyway.
I’m usually the one reading, not posting . . .
So don’t take the piss . . .
749 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 21:55
I went to Akihabara today. Not that there was anything I wanted to buy. Anyway, on my way back there was this old drunk guy on the train. Other than the old geezer and myself, all the people sat in our car were women.
20s–40s I reckon.
Anyway, he started harassing the women in our car.
First he tried to harass this girl but she wasn’t having it and got off at the next stop. I watched him out of the corner of my eye thinking what a creep he was.
Then the guy comes over to where I was, right in the centre and leans over a group of older women. ‘Don’t even think about using your mobiles coz I’ll ’ave you!’ he goes, scaring the shit out of the women. They were like 
– all silent.
Ok this might turn into a long one.
763 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 22:15
>>761
I’m not sure if it’s going to lead to anything but . . .
If only I’d had the balls . . .
All right, I’m gonna write through it. Get it together.
766 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 22:23
The old dears sat very still with their heads down ‘Best not to notice him’ was the idea.
Then the guy started on about ‘Women should shut up and do what a man says’ and he pushed his hand into one of the ladies’ faces and grabbed her chin.
I couldn’t just sit back anymore so I forced myself to shout ‘Hey, stop it!’ My voice was probably shaking.
You know, I’ve never even been in a fight.
But the guy apparently didn’t hear me so there was no response.
‘Hey! Mate! I said cut it out ameghrrrghrrr!’ I stood up and did my best to yell out a second time. Then one of the ladies looked over at me and said ‘don’t worry, we’re fine’ trying to calm me down.
The guy finally realised what was going on and turned round. ‘What are you staring at me like that for eh?’ He glared at me.
He staggered over.
‘Hhhow f@*%ing old are ya?’
‘I’m 22!’
‘I’m f@*%ing 60 arraghrrrgftttt’
I couldn’t make out half his words but basically, he was telling me I was a young punk or something.
‘So you want some of this? Eh? Some of this?’
The old geezer was ready to fight.
‘Huh? What are you talking about. I’m gonna call the police.’
‘Go the f@*% ahead and call the police rrrghh.’
He started swinging his arms around stumbling about. While he swung his arms, he must have lost his balance because he side-swiped a woman. It wasn’t a major slap or anything but still.
Um, how do you cut a long story short . . . ? 
766 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 22:37
‘Oh!’ said the woman as she pulled back.
I jumped up and grabbed the man by his arms.
One of the older ladies got up to call the conductor.
Then a businessman in his late 20s who was in the car in front of us noticed the commotion and came over to help. Seeing the geezer and me grappling the businessman got behind the guy and put him in an armlock.
‘All right, mate, all right. Just don’t take it out on the boy.’
You could tell this businessman was a bit older and knew a thing or two. I mean he knew how to calm the situation down.
‘I’ll keep him right here so you can sit down now.’
I was pretty worked up, really pumped, so this business man even calmed me right down. And wouldn’t you know it the old guy didn’t even put up a fight. Maybe he knew he wouldn’t be able to beat the guy which means, damn it, that he thought I was gonna be a pushover. 
I sat down next to a woman who said ‘What a nuisance’ to which I replied
‘Yes, absolutely’
Why I couldn’t say something wittier, I’ve no idea. 
I’m tired . . . 
779 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 22:52
>>767
It was really just like that . . .
I’m so lame.
The suit was so cool.
After a while the conductor turned up.
When the conductor told the old geezer ‘We’re going to have to release you to the police so you’ll have to get off at the next stop’ the geezer threw a fit.
Because of the police, me, the girl sitting next to me, the older ladies and the geezer all got off at the next stop.
Then the conductor said
‘I’m gonna go and call the police so hold onto him for me will you?’ and rushed off somewhere. Leaving me and the ladies with the old guy. How mad is that. So I grabbed hold of the geezer’s arm but he yelled back at me saying ‘Don’t you grab me, I ain’t going nowhere!’ and started making a scene. None of the posers that passed us by even offered to help . . . (´▪ω▪`)
So I just held onto the old man who kept trying to run away and finally 2 or 3 policemen showed up.
‘This old man?’ they asked me. As soon as I replied yes, they moved mad-quick dragging him into an office. So we all followed.
After we all showed them our IDs they asked all the women ‘do you want to press charges?’ and they all said ‘no, thanks’.
I told them I wasn’t hurt in the scuffle.
780 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 23:06
Even if it wasn’t handled as a proper crime there was a load of paperwork that needed to be filled out so we followed them to the police station.
On the way there:
‘I’m sorry, it’s my fault it snowballed into this.’ The older ladies had a while to go before their stop but they all laughed and said ‘No biggie, don’t worry’
At the police station, the old man got taken to a room in the back.
I heard him yelling and then an angry yap from a cop.
‘We’re gonna squeeze him dry wrwg’ The policeman laughed.
As I watched the women scribble out the police forms I felt guilty again, thinking about how I should have just kept my mouth shut. If I had, we wouldn’t be in this mess. I bowed to them and apologised.
‘There aren’t many young men like you out there you know’ said one of the older ladies. And I felt ten feet tall.
Just a bit more.
Tho you guys know how it ends already.
789 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 23:24
Don’t know why or how, but I asked the policeman ‘Um, am I allowed to go now?’
To which the policeman replied ‘Of course, you’ve given us all we need. Thank you so much.’ I mean, he thanked me. And then the ladies also bowed deeply and thanked me.
‘If it’s ok with you, could you give us your name and contact information?’ said one of the older ladies.
I wrote my name and address in her notepad.
‘Excuse me, could I also have . . .’ the girl who sat next to me asked.
And then added ‘I’d like to be able to return this favour soon’
To which I babbled like an idiot ‘no, god no, oh no thank you’ and then quickly added ‘right then, I’m sorry about all of this, the fuss . . .’ and promptly legged it.
That’s the end of it.
I realised later on how stupid am I for not asking for their contact information . . . 
I’ve never been thanked by a woman before so . . .
I got so nerrrrrrrrrvousssssss
792 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 23:27
>>789
You gave them your address, right?
Then there’s no need to worry coz they’ll come over to your place with a thank you gift.
793 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 23:27
Well your address is probably one in a list of many guys!
Even so, you’ve scored quite big for a Geek 
811 Name: 731 Post Date: 14/03/04 23:40
Man, I’m so exhausted from my day. It was filled with stuff I never ever do . . . 
And guys, thnx for reading my terrible writing.
I’ll let you know if I hear from one of the ladies. Will definitely report.
(´▪ω▪`)
>>805
I wanted to but it just so happened that there were only women in my car The suit looked to me like a g-o-d
If he hadn’t helped out I’d probably have been beaten to a pulp Would have been quite a scene . . .
Laters
812 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 23:42
I think it was pretty gutsy of 731 to go up against a drunk.
Maybe it’s weird of me to say when I wasn’t even there but . . .
Isn’t it kind of an extension from basic, social, common courtesy, no?
815 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 14/03/04 23:45
>>811
I think it was pretty damn heroic of you
Tell us as soon as something new develops
762 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 15/03/04 19:08
thanks for listening yesterday.
It’s only been a day so nothing new to report.
You’re asking about what the older ladies and the young woman looked like, any special features
I can’t remember very well so I’ll write without getting into the details, ok.
Older ladies
There were three in all and they were in their 40s
But all very classy-looking
Girl that sat next to me
Probably in her 20s. But looked older than me. Between 22 and 25.
Celebrity traits, well, I don’t know many celebrities . . .
She had longish brown hair, was a bit on the skinny side.
Wasn’t too flashy or too boring and seemed well put together in a pretty-pretty kind of way.
777 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 15/03/04 19:27
>>772
I’m your basic Akihabara roaming techie . . . 
Age = how long I’ve been without a girlfriend
Definitely a no sexperience virgin
You know what tho, I’m gonna try.
I’m gonna try to use that courage that came to me on the train
But even if something did happen with that girl that sat next to me
No way . . . 
No way could we walk around town together or anything
780 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 15/03/04 19:32
Putting the calling and no-calling aside, you’ve really stepped up dude.
I don’t have it in me to do what you did, Mr Godman 
783 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 15/03/04 19:36
>>780
Of course I thought that this was my chance
I’ll step in to save them
↓
they’ll be grateful
↓
they might want to thank me
↓
I’ll hurriedly report it to this thread
↓
fantastico
I shall report as soon as something happens. Laters.
The Geeks and Train Man himself weren’t expecting any great changes in their near future. But . . . the first sign of change turned up in a box.
587 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 18:58
I received a letter today.
I don’t know if it’s from an old lady or the girl but from the envelope and stationery as well as the handwriting, I think it’s the older lady.
It basically thanked me for the other night and from the sound of it, she was the one that was directly harassed by the old man.
I’m thinking about writing back . . .
But as you know, my writing skills are . . . a bit shabby . . . 
I will try me best to write . . .
623 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 19:43
Just now I received a little package and letter from the girl.
They were teacups. She thanked me in the letter.
She wrote ‘I sat next to you that night’ so I’m pretty positive about it.
Supa cute envelope, stationery and handwriting! (;˚∀˚)=3 hubbahubba
And it smells kinda nice too 
pant pant Damn. I’m getting all feverish. Gotta take a chill pill.
624 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 19:45
>>623
chill man, the smell is definitely your mind playing trix do her words smell at all like there may be more to come?
625 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 19:45
>>623
if the package was delivered by courier service then you got her numba?
628 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 19:52
>>624
more to come . . . ?
let me share a sentence
‘I was moved by the courage you displayed.’
That’s about it . . .
>>625
you is right, it is on the waybill itself . . . 
woawoawoa
629 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 19:52
631 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 19:54
ahh . . . yeah . . . well . . .
It seems like a near impossible feat to push the relationship any further?
632 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 19:54
>>628
you have to call up your courage again. Take two.
643 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:00
Oh no . . .
Things are a bit crazy right now
No way could I call a girl . . . 
650 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:03
Seriously, I don’t have a clue what I’m supposed to do! 
Am I supposed to call right away?
653 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:04
Calling would be too sudden, no?
But it’s a difficult situation so you have to be a bit pushy or it won’t go any further.
Why don’t you say something like ‘Seeing as we met under such unusual circumstances, what would you say to getting together for dinner sometime soon’
656 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:06
>Train Man
Hold it. How many cups did you get?
661 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:11
As one who used to hang on the Couples Board allow me to dish out some advice.
Must call. Must make the call!
Call and tell her that you received it.
Tell her something like thank you for the nice cups and compliment her on her taste.
And then slip in something about the train, like do you always take that train? Got it?
665 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:13
you guys . . . thanks a lot
>>660
there are 2 cups
to put it simply, the normal kind 
I have my mobile in my hand but I can’t dial the number . . .
This needs much more balls than that day (´▪ω▪`)
668 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:15
>>665
If you wait till later it’s gonna be even more difficult to call.
You should call before 9 at least.
669 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:16
>>665
ain’t cutting it. Need age, salary, car, family background, looks.
Two cups, just as I thought. So thread it from there. Got it?
678 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:21
There’s no way in hell you can get it on right now so just focus on trying to stay in touch with her.
Sample dialogue
‘Thank you so much for the gift. I just received the cups.
They’re wonderfully designed these cups. But why are there 2?
I’m alone most of the time so I only use one at a time.
By the way, where did you buy them?
I’d love to go to the shop so could you tell me where it is?’
Like that?
Being a Geek myself, that’s all I got
680 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:21
Call to thank her!
n then,
Thank you so much for the cups--! You really didn’t have to.
What a night that was, I couldn’t let him get away with that kind of behaviour.
Promote your knight in shining armour side
687 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:25
Writing a letter is the way to go.
Calling could be too much too soon.
Calling the day the letter arrives, definitely too much too soon.
688 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:25
waaaaaaah 
thanks people
I’m taking all you guys’ advice!
>>669
age 22
income £20K
family normal
car none
looks techiecutie 
am I supposed to use the 2 cups to invite her over for tea? no way Jose
I’m still holding onto my mobile, no f@*%in’ way
Can I call tomorrow? (´▪ω▪`)
690 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:25
Is the phone number on the waybill her home or mobile?
695 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:27
>>688
if you’re gonna call, you gotta call today!
Good omens abound when you act immediately upon a thought
698 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:27
A call’s too pushy, man.
Better to let that great first impression linger.
707 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:30
If I can’t call by 2100 then I won’t call . . .(´▪ω▪`)
I’m too worked up anyway . . .
She’d probably hear me breathing heavily or something . . .
709 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:31
I was pushing the call earlier but I’ve got my reasons for that.
If you rely on a letter, there’s the chance that this’ll end after your reply. I don’t think the relationship would go any further.
If you’re looking to explore it further you gotta call and prepare to die an honourable death.
>>698
If it was me, I’d definitely call.
710 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:31
I’m a girl and I wouldn’t feel ambushed by a phone call or anything. On the contrary I’d be like ‘great, the cups were delivered safe and sound but boy, what a nice guy to call to thank me for them’.
Excellent impression
724 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:37
I’m also a girl,
And I’d be ok with either letter or call.
I’d pull back if you suddenly stepped over the line and started talking about personal stuff.
Why don’t you call and go with how she reacts?
Whatever, I’d recommend a multi-pronged attack
726 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 20:37
I’ve been watching this thread and checking my phone for the last few minutes.
No can do.
734 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:41
Shit. Why do I have to feel nervous.
736 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:41
>>726
You say no now but you’ve got nothing to lose!
You’ve already got the teacups, right?
Rejection is the name of the game!
Go! You’re a man. Put on your gear and go!
737 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:41
Seriously, this is when you call up your courage. This is it.
738 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:42
I can’t work out if Train Man is a ball-o-courage or a ball-o-dung
You can do it dude! Train! Train! Train!
739 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:43
>>726
Doh! You are being tested as a man now!
Why would you pull back now?!
Call if it’s the last thing you do before you die! Right now!!!!!!!!
741 Name: 680 Post Date: 16/03/04 20:43
You didn’t make a bad impression on her so she’s going to be completely cool with the phone call.
Same thing with the thank you letter.
But as someone wrote earlier, a thank you letter could be more difficult to follow up on so I agree that you should call while you’re still buzzing.
If not right away, tomorrow should be fine too!
750 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:47
Call today!
If you wait till tomorrow you’ll say ‘I’m kind of busy today’ or ‘Let’s wait another day’ and in the end, I can see you’ll just give up on the call!
You hear me?!?! Today, today, today. Call today!!!!!!!
757 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:50
You’re standing at one of life’s crossroads dude!
Think about it carefully before you act!
762 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 20:53
If you don’t call, she’ll just think of you as what-a-nice-guy-he-was. Very true.
‘I’m so happy that such a nice lady thinks of me that way’
I guess that’s a nice thought to have too.
If Train were me, then yeah, maybe he’d be thinking this.
But you know, that woman went o-u-t o-f h-e-r w-a-y to pick out teacups for you.
763 Name: 680 Post Date: 16/03/04 20:53
Why don’t you just say you’ll call tomorrow and we’ll practise today, you and me and simulate the actual call.
Will advise as well.
782 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:01
I used all my will power and tried a lot of times to call
But no way
Far more nerve-wracking than on the train
My hands are tingling, my face is red, my heart’s thumping like mad
I am a loser 
The letter I guess isn’t as effective? (´▪ω▪`)
783 Name: 680 Post Date: 16/03/04 21:01
I’m here to help. For real.
I’ll wait for Train Man to reply.
If we’re role-playing the phone call, pls start your end.
Or if you need me to I’ll jump in.
832 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:18
Thank you so much everybody
But I don’t think I have it in me . . .
My hands are shaking
Let’s go with the letter . . .
836 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:19
You really are having a difficult time aren’t you, Train Man.
840 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:19
>>832
Everybody’s hands shake the first time, yeah.
Mine shook too. But hey, but hey . . .
It’s your first time today and they won’t shake the second time around. You’ll be stepping up to higher ground.
861 Name: ♀ Post Date: 16/03/04 21:26
I think it’s better for you to call.
If you write a letter, I don’t think it’ll lead to the next step.
What’re you thinking could follow the thank you letter?
If she doesn’t reply, end of story, no?
Just think of it this way. You call to thank a relative for sending you gifts, right? So tell yourself it’s only natural to make the call!
864 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:28
If you make this call, I think a new Train Man’s bound to step onto stage?
It’s not a matter of going out with her or not,
I think you’ll grab hold of something far deeper.
874 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:31
My hands are frozen! 
Purleeze give me the courage from that day!
904 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:37
I’m not gonna do it today . . . 
I’m gonna read through everybody’s comments again and work myself up for tomorrow . . .
910 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:39
>>904
Allow me one comment.
‘There’s only one of her but you’ve got all us here at 2-Channel’
That’s all I’ve got to say.
927 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:42
Shit . . . you’re making me kinda teary . . .
I’m overwhelmed by my own lameness and you guys’ kindness.
And damn me for not being able to properly say thanks . . .
928 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:43
You can dooooooooooo it maaannnnnnnnnn!
929 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 21:43
You can thank us with your actions!
949 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 21:48
So I’ll look though the log and cull the key points and come up with a plan for the phone call dialogue tomorrow . . . Thanks people. And sorry for being so lame.
Though most of his fellow Geeks wanted him to make the phone call, this hurdle was much too high for our Train Man whose age = number of years without a girlfriend = a squeaky clean virgin.
22 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:03
I’m finally feeling back to normal . . .
I don’t think my heart’s ever raced so much before . . .
I’m throwing in my cards . . . 
35 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:07
2 cups sounds like an invitation to me
47 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:13
But wait. We have to analyse this.
Teacups for a techie boy. What is this really saying?
48 Name: 680 in prevthread Post Date: 16/03/04 22:14
It’s fairly standard to send sets of mugs or any other kind of household goods. Don’t think there are any ulterior motives.
I’m going back to being Anonymous from my next post. (▪∀▪) see ya
50 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:14
>>45
Yep. I think there are many single-item gifts.
But this was a pair.
Don’t want to read too deeply but it smells a bit like she thought it through.
55 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:16
Well, there really can’t be a one-cup situation
56 Name: 724 in prevthread Post Date: 16/03/04 22:17
I agree with 680.
Normally, it’d be a set.
Teacups are also a fairly harmless choice.
57 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:17
It’s common. Sending a pair of cups.
58 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:17
Just like you guys all kinds of thoughts are swirling through my mind . . .
An endless array of maybe . . . or perhaps . . . couldn’t be . . .
66 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:20
All right . . . so I shouldn’t read too much into it all, yeah
But I’m gonna treasure them . . .
85 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:26
The cups don’t mean anything
You’re probably reading too much into it
I think that as a thank you gift, it’s most definitely a harmless choice
The Geeks ramble on about the meaning of the two teacups. It is 89’s quite simple question that ends up leading the thread into a random digression.
89 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:27
>>85
Reading too much into the cups are we?
What brand are they? Couldn’t we find out a thing or two with that piece of info? Is this old 411?
93 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:28
I guess she could have sent a plate or a glass cup as a thank you gift but household goods can get very tricky.
The teacups were definitely the easiest choice.
99 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:30
>>89
You’re reading too much into it.
One time when I had to send a thank you gift and I asked around for ideas, a lot of people suggested cups.
104 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:31
so . . . who makes the cups?
115 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:35
I know I’ve said this already but guys, really, thanks for thinking all this through for me. I can’t say it enough.
>>104
It says Hermes. Guess they’re some household goods brand from somewhere.
>>103
thanks, man, really, for supporting lame me.
when I work up the courage . . .
117 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:35
Hot damn. Herrrrrrrrmes eh
118 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:35
>>115
You saying they’re Hermes!
120 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:35
>>115
HERMES
Fuel the flames fuel the flames fuel the flames and fan it fan it fan it!!!!
121 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:36
>>115
Hey, you do know how to pronounce it, right. It’s air-mez.
122 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:36
Can’t believe it’s Hermes.
She must be rolling in dough.
126 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:36
>>115
HERMES is the real deal and we’re not talking about that spaceship of the same name
127 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:37
I knew it! The cups have a deeper meaning!
132 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:38
Hermes like the bag?
That’s like a major brand, dude.
Expensive innit?
They make cups and stuff?
Need Serious Answers Purleeze
141 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:39
jaw hangin open
slightly afraid
got the shakes
major shakes and shakes and breaks and shakes
146 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:40
No matter how much gratitude you have, sending Hermes teacups isn’t your everyday gift.
149 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:40
I can’t believe she sent you Hermes! To send Hermes teacups as a thank you gift. Shows you she’s got class.
152 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:41
We’re really cookin’ now
155 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:41
>>141
You have to call tomorrow
You have to, have to, have to
I’m not gonna tell you to keep your hopes down
Just call without thinking too much about it.
164 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:43
Ok ok ok ok, don’t scare me!
My heart’s racin’ again
167 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:44
Man oh man.
We still don’t know whether she likes you or not . . .
As 149 said, she has class and is mature.
There’s no doubt that she feels indebted to you . . .
More reason to pick up the phone and call to thank her.
182 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 22:47
You have to take her out to dinner, to thank her.
183 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:47
I knew that Hermes was an upmarket brand but
I had no idea they made teacups 
>>168
height 172
weight 68 kilos
face . . . never been told I look like anyone 
185 Name: 68 Post Date: 16/03/04 22:48
Thanks to the expensive Hermes teacups, now we know how this is going to go.
‘I feel so undeserving of such an expensive gift . . . if it’s ok with you, I’d love to take you to dinner to thank you for the gift . . .’
this kind of flow would sound trés natural.
I’d go if someone asked me like this.
234 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 22:59
I should call today shouldn’t I?
244 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:01
Yeah. But it’s too late now.
It’s too coupley after 2300
253 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 23:03
I called her mobile but got her voicemail . . .
I’ll call again tomorrow
260 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:04
>>253
What I should say is whatdahelltimeyouthinkitis but way to go, dude!!
Tomorrow is another day!!!
271 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:07
Good on you
You went to the next level.
292 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 16/03/04 23:11
I’ve never, of course, called a girl in my life 
What I wanted to do, more than anything, was to just thank her normally If she doesn’t call tomorrow I’ll give her a call!
297 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:12
Could anyone have ever guessed that Train Man would get this board going like this?
320 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:19
Us Geeks talking amongst our geeky selves . . . that’s not the best way of working out how to move things along. We need to get a second opinion.
We won’t sit back and cut our geek selves off from humanity. No way.
331 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:22
>>320
You’re right. And in a way, it was nice to have the ladies contribute.
So in that light, ladies, stop by whenever you feel like stopping by.
333 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 16/03/04 23:23
I’ve never felt so encouraged by the ladies, eva eva eva.
Finally, with bated breath, Train Man takes his first step.
342 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:13
Just got back from work 
I really wanted to get back earlier . . .
She had called me a couple of times today but I . . .
I’m gonna call her right now . . .
344 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:14
He’s ba--------ck!
Welcome back!
Why don’t you grab something to eat first.
350 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:16
< have some tea why don’t you
351 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:16
forget tea!
Now, now, quickly, you must call---!
366 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:20
He’s on the phone right now isn’t he . . . I guess we hafta hang around and wait
367 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:21
This feeling . . .
I haven’t felt like this since my school play . . .
398 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:29
I wonder what Train Man is talking about right now . . .
401 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:29
I just hung up.
My hands are still shaking.
She had just run a bath.
Lady Hermes said that she didn’t mind. That she’d keep talking but I told her that I’d call her back.
She said that she’d call me back.
Damn it. I was so nervous.
406 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:30
>>401
Good job!!!!!
413 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:30
Whooooooaaaaaaaaa!
You da man! What’d you talk about?
414 Name: 731 aka Train Main Post Date: 17/03/04 22:30
I can’t ask her out to dinner!
432 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:33
>>413
I started out by apologising for not leaving a message yesterday
Then apologised for calling kinda late tonight
Then apologised about her having to call me so much today
Then said how undeserving I felt about the wonderful gift
And apologised some more
And more
What the . . . am I the apology man . . . 
437 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:33
>>414
Give us a rundown on how the conversation went
I swear I’ll analyse it until my CPU explodes into flames, yeah!
447 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:34
>>433
Thanking somebody for something they gave you as a thank you gift is kinda strange, no?
You sure this isn’t weird?
Serio-responses purleeze.
450 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:35
>>447
It’s completely fine.
Not weird at all!
451 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:35
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
Invite her out to dinner to thank her for the cups
458 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:36
>>436
calm down, heel, heel heeeeeeel
‘I’d like to thank you in person, that is, if you don’t mind’
OR
‘I’d like to thank you in person, may I?’
is the way to go
We’ll think of dinner or café or cinema later
463 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:37
>>430
She had a normal voice.
First thing she said was ‘Ah . . . finally got you on the phone’
Sound good?
Dinner in return for the cups dinner in return for the cups dinner in return for the cups dinner in return for the cups dinner in return for the cups
476 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:40
>>458 is the last word, agreed?
And thanks everybody.
485 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:41
I’m a girl . . .
I think dinner would be best
458 is too much about the face-to-face which pushed me away whereas dinner means yummy food and that always works with me
486 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:42
I’m getting nervous . . . 
492 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:42
>>463
‘Thank you so much for the lovely gift. It looks like the scale has tipped too far in my favour. I’d like to be able to do something in return. What about dinner?’
could you manage that?
501 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:43
Wait! Where am I supposed to take her to dinner?
And would it have to be on a Sunday?
505 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:44
>>492
Thanks for the lines!
510 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:45
>>501
Sunday sounds good.
And when you ask her, she’s probably gonna say no at first coz she feels bad about it but just push for more and keep asking her to dinner!
519 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:46
>>510
I’m sure she’ll say ‘You don’t have to feel obliged’ when she says no.
Would that be the end?
And how do I push for more?
My mind is all crazy now 
Anyway, I’m gonna innnnvite her to din-dins
522 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:48
>>519 Train
You’ve really . . . matured . . .
better yet . . . are maturing.
Damn. You is shining.
And so a little tug of war between Lady Hermes and Train Man begins. Will Train Man succeed in inviting Lady Hermes out?
530 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 22:49
Ringin
531 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:49
Call from Lady Miss Hermes------! 
538 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:50
Time to take the stage for real!
539 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:50
I’m praying like mad. Really.
548 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:51
I ask you God to provide Train Man with courage and to light his way!
549 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:51
If you want the courage I used in primary school when I pissed my pants for the first and last time . . . well I’m giving it away for free!
553 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:52
I’ve never sincerely prayed for a stranger ever in my life.
558 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:52
Even if it’s just us . . . let’s all try to stay calm
Why don’t we all join together in some deep breathing.
569 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:54
breathe in
and out
596 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:57
Man oh man, I wonder what they’re talking about.
I really want him to give it his all.
Train makes me want to be a better man.
600 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:58
Oh please please please make it all go well!!!!!!!!
605 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 22:59
Ten minutes on my clock
614 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:00
HELP ME WITH DINNER
616 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:01
Ahyeah ahyeah 
621 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:01
Why don’t you just say that you don’t know too many places and just buy some time?
622 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:01
To Sir With Love!!!!!!!!!
627 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:02
Just say you’ll look into it and that you’ll call her back
628 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:02
All rrrrrite!
629 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:02
First thing is to decide which train station to meet at.
You have till the day to decide on the restaurant.
641 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:02
Got it.
643 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:03
>>641
the realism is killin me
649 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:03
>>641
ahyeah ahyeah!
652 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:04
Train Man two-word post is for real
653 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:04
Sir Train Man Sir . . . serious respect
658 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:04
>>641
662 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:04
this kinda place is fairly harmless and the way to go methinks Tsuki No Shizuku is a fav of the ladies. whatchu all think?
http://www.sankofoods.com/shop.html
686 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:08
No go with the ladies
When the place is too stiff it makes the ladies pull back and affects what follows, if you know what I mean.
Let’s say that food and drink will be split down the middle then it should be not-too-expensive not-too-cheap a place, nor can it be too fancy so basically we’re talkin about a so-so kinda vibe, yeah
690 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:08
>>683
Italian or French should do it
Quick search online should pull a couple up
Could ask a guy at work who’s popular with the ladies
Could check one of dem local message boards
Techies must act as techies do and use da puter for this!
691 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:08
http://www.diamond-dining.com/atcafe/index.html
kinda stylish, no
692 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:08
conveyor belt sushi, family dining, fast food, Korean bbq, yakitori, ramen places would all be no-go in this case – places that would work would be casual Italian.
693 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:08
I’m a girl and I’d have to say that French would be too fancy schmancy and could present unnecessary problems so Tsuki no Shizuku or slightly fancy Japanese tapas or ethnic dining could end up being the cool way to go.
722 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:11
You guys have probably forgotten that Train Man dresses like a techie.
Let’s take him shopping! – (’A`)
734 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:12
If they’re still talking, it’s been 23 minutes.
765 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:14
Girl here. I’ve overexcited myself and need to grab some tea. Laters.
767 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:15
All right then. Shall we begin our Train Man make-over?
But this Geek cannot be of much help . . .
Ladies, ladies, may we ask for you to step up
Finally, Train Man jumps over his first hurdle.
785 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:17
Just hung up.
We agreed to meet for dinner.
Thanks, e-v-e-r-y-b-o-d-y.
790 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:17
>>785
ahyeah 
791 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:17
>>785
spill the details why don’t you
792 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:18
>>785
Good job! You da man!!
794 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:18
>>785
795 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:18
>>785
grats!!
797 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:18
wooooooooooo!!! I’m participating in real time for the first time!
803 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:18
>>785
Awesome! Way to go!
814 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:19
>>785
59 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:34
The first call I got from her was about 12 noon. I was working through my lunch break so I could get out of work early. I checked my call log about an hour later at 1 and realised that she had called. I called her back immediately but didn’t get through. She called me at around 3 but I was working and couldn’t get to the phone. She called again at 5 and then at 7 but again, I couldn’t get to the phone. What a loser.
101 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:42
So then I got home a little after 10 and mad rushed to call her.
Pretty sure this was how we kicked off
‘Hi. This is Train. Is this Lady Miss Hermes?’
‘Oh wow, finally we got through to each other.’
Something like that.
‘I’m really sorry I was away from the phone so much and thank you so much for calling me so many times.’
‘No problem. It was my fault for having bad timing.’
Then
‘I received the cups yesterday.
Thank you for such a lovely gift.’
‘It was nothing.’
And we went on about stuff like this and got to talking about the train and what happened then.
Oh man, I can’t remember it all . . . 
105 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:43
>>101
sounds good sounds good
116 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:49
Me ‘I’m really sorry for making it such a big deal on the train and taking up so much of your time.’
LMH ‘Please, it wasn’t any big deal.’
Me ‘On top of it all, I left before anybody.’
LMH ‘We all left right after you. I talked with the older ladies about you, Train Man.’
Me ‘Whaaaaat?!?!’
LMH ‘We all talked about what a courageous young man you were.’
We talked for a while using all sorts of words
But I’m just reporting the gist of what we talked about
120 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:50
I likey likey ------
139 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 17/03/04 23:54
Then I heard somebody’s voice, probably her mother’s, yell out from the distance
‘The bath is ready!’
LMH ‘Sorry. Just give me a second. (and she probably covered the phone with her hand) Later----!’
Me ‘I can call back later’
LMH ‘So sorry. I’ll call you back later’
(Didn’t ask whether it was all right or anything)
And then, I quickly returned to the thread to give a little report
146 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 17/03/04 23:56
Train, tho you may be a fugly techie you have the power, and the courage usually reserved for the in-crowd.
I bow in reverence.
(’A`) me here being a combo of fugly and a major chicken should probably be run over by a train or something
161 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:01
So I get the call
LMH ‘I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long’
Me ‘That was quick’
LMH ‘I take quick baths’
Me ‘I probably made you take a quick one. Sorry.’
LMH ‘Don’t worry so much’
So we continued talking like this with her being extra careful with her words not to make me uncomfortable with anything . . . or so it felt I’m thinking about how best to steer the conversation towards my inviting her to dinner
187 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:18
>>79 |
|
Her specs |
Which celeb does she look like? > don’t know many celebs |
Meeting place |
Closest station so we can search> Anywhere along the Keihin Tohoku Line |
Your specs |
height weight, long legs or not, how do you dress usually? |
194 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:10
Honestly, re your specs
If you tell us for real and skip the asci stuff then we can give you some honest to goodness advice.
198 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:12
>>194 |
|
Height |
172 centimetres |
Weight |
68 kilos |
Dress |
major puter nerd |
201 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:12
>>198
when you say major techie are you in jeans and sloppy shirt? First thing, do you have a nice jacket?
215 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:16
>>201
You got me exactly.
And glasses. What does outer mean? 
Let’s hold off on the next step
Let me finish telling you what already transpired, the results
So we decided that we would have dinner together
Time and place are yet to be decided.
228 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:19
>>215
Leave it up to me. I used to dress like you so I’ve got it all covered.
Do you have a pair of somewhat straight and tight jeans? If you do, that’s a keeper.
For your top just wear a light turtleneck and a jacket. That would be enough. Let me go google a few samples for you.
237 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:21
I think we need to pretty him up just a bit.
Dress for the occasion then you won’t be too nervous about walking into the restaurant.
238 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:21
Couple of basics you need to keep in mind
-Cut your hair
-Iron the wrinkly clothes
-Don’t go out with bed hair
That’s about it. Don’t know what your hair looks like now but you should go and get a haircut so you feel put together.
239 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:21
Thanks everybody.
I’ll go out and buy some clothes
And for now, no pimples.
269 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:26
Here are some sites I studied in order to shed my techie-dom
Take a look and see
295 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 00:32
I think I maxed out coz I’m not absorbing any of you guys’ words 
This is it for me tonight . . .
I feel bad coz I know my people are thinking it through for me But I’m too tired.
299 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:33
>>295
good job. sleep well
300 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:33
Train, there’s no need for you to listen to anybody other than yourself! We’re all here to support you so listen closely to yourself and just take our comments with a grain of salt.
Regardless, good work.
301 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:33
good job
I’m sure you’re all panicked inside but there’s happiness in that, man.
Sweet dreams.
302 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:34
>>295
sleep well
you were amazing today 
399 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:53
I’m just reading through the thread and trying to step into Train’s shoes but man, you know what, it’s really difficult to incorporate women into your life. I don’t know if I could do it
The hurdles are many and way high
410 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 00:55
>>399
For Train, it’s appeared to be easier than we thought, don’t you think?
Honestly, I didn’t think he was going to be able to ask her to dinner. Laters.
556 Name: Girl 1 Post Date: 18/03/04 10:01
How did Train Man invite her to dinner?
This here Girl 1 would like to quietly, from an all-good corner of my heart offer some advice to Train Man.
Pologies if I’m way off.
‘Thanks for the cups. They must have been really expensive.’
This shows that you are respectful of her actions, of her giving you an Hermes teacup. Also, it provides an opportunity for her to peek into your not quite understanding upmarket brands and such.
‘Where do you usually go to dinner?’
‘What do you want to eat’ may be too direct.
Instead, you may want to ask the first question so you get an idea for what she tends to like and then you can incorporate into the conversation on the day.
If she answers and it’s way beyond Train’s territory then, ‘Wow, I usually don’t get a chance to go to places like that so I have no idea what to recommend. Do you know of any places?’ And the ball will be in her court.
If she gets uncomfortable about being in her territory (she could just not want to have to organise the evening so don’t worry so much about it) just ask ‘Do you have anything you can’t eat?’ and then ‘I’ll look around for a good place, But you know, I usually just go to bars with my friends so there’s a slight chance that I may not come up with anywhere good. If that happens, can we look for a place together on the day?’
That said, you should definitely check out the area before your date so you have an idea about which restaurants are where. If possible, that is.
557 Name: Girl 1 Post Date: 18/03/04 10:01
‘What time do you get off work?’
When you ask ‘what do you want to do?’ the answer is usually ‘whatever you want’ so it’s best to ask questions that are easier to answer and steer the conversation forward.
(if she answers ‘a little after six’)
‘Would meeting at XX at 7 work for you?’ shows that you are being very sensitive to her schedule and at the same time it shows that you will not let her get away.
558 Name: Girl 1 Post Date: 18/03/04 10:01
Gotta tell you that from my past experiences . . .
1) Not too sexy when a guy is looking around helplessly in a restaurant. It made me think why hadn’t this guy chosen a place he was comfortable in. So, combine the frayed nerves from a first date with the frayed nerves of walking into a restaurant you’ve never set foot in – and you’re asking for trouble.
2) ‘What do you wanna do?’ is not a good question to ask because there’s always an awkward silence that follows. Always ask questions that are easier to answer so the conversation keeps flowing.
3) Make sure you don’t run out of things to talk about. When you call to arrange the date, make sure you understand that the phone call is not just about the date. You can’t keep talking about the train incident forever and ever. Here’s an example: ‘You mentioned you often go out for Italian but what do you like? I haven’t been to the real Italian restaurants so I don’t know much about the food but remember back when tiramisu was all the rage? I ate a lot of tiramisu for sure.’ It’s best to not pretend like you know more than you do because it is bound to bite you in the arse. Stick with what you know.
But if you really only stick to what you know, the conversation may not go anywhere so you should do a little research online about some of the stuff she mentioned over the phone.
‘You mentioned over the phone yesterday about xx but I think I saw it online as yy. Is that the same thing?’
Man I have so much I want to say but it’s getting way too long. This is it for now. I’m gonna be cheering you on. Seriously,
559 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 10:07
>>558
I was floored by your posting. The detail. The involvement. Your kindness. Amazing job, you.
560 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 10:17
mornin dudes
So things have moved along here haven’t they.
This thread has morphed into a warm fuzzy place from the old one where we kept getting shot down in flames. Trust you people are well.
561 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 10:25
>>560
losing weight nicely
562 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 11:17
>>560
Enveloped in a musky warmth with an endless supply of encouragement until one day you open your eyes and realise that you are a XXXXXX
563 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 11:21
>>561
XXXXXXXXXX
564 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 11:53
>562
Man, that’s exactly me.
I was enjoying myself tracking the thread but this is no place for a real
Geek anymore. It’s really turned into this thread where a cool boy and a girl get rescued from the scummy depths of our pond.
Every night Train Man appeared to report, blow-by-blow, his conversation with Lady Miss Hermes.
568 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 19:26
Thanks for staying up late for me 
Let me read the past postings. Be right back.
Do we need to discuss yesterday’s phone call anymore?
576 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 19:54
>>534
I read through all the postings and I grovel if I’ve neglected to answer some of your questions.
The general flow seems to be that I ‘wear a suit and go for Italian’ what do you think? I have to go get myself a suit 
581 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 20:01
This is the first time I’m going out to eat with a girl so
I had no idea where I was supposed to take her . . . 
To be honest, while I was talking on the phone with her, you guys right here in the thread were all the support I had.
608 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 20:33
I thought that I had forced her to take a quick bath so I apologised profusely but she said ‘Really, my baths are usually this short’
I’m gonna return to my story
She and the older ladies talked about the incident on the train
‘If he hadn’t been there, really, who knows what could have happened’
‘Most people just pretend they don’t see what’s happening so that was an amazing amount of courage it took for him to speak up.’
I don’t remember much else 
I said ‘I’m not sure whether I did the right thing or not. That old man may not have done anything if I had stayed silent and if that were the case none of us would have had to spend any time at the police station. I’m really sorry about all that.’
To which she replied
‘You did what was right’
‘I really am grateful’
‘You risked your own life for strangers. That doesn’t happen very often.’
‘I told my parents and friends about it.’
Man, I really don’t remember much else. 
652 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 20:58
Being a bachelor myself, I’d like to be your big bro and help you out a bit.
How long has she been working?
What kind of company does she work for?
I’ll give you some tips about clothes and restaurants depending on those answers.
674 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 21:14
>>652
Sales. It’s her third year on the job.
I’m withdrawing money from my war chest so I think I should be fine.
Not that I have a fortune to spend . . .
676 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 21:16
>>674
got more info about her?
677 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 21:20
>>674
tell me your height and body type.
Your outfit will change accordingly . . .
678 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 21:20
>>676
I don’t know much other than her name and address . . .
She said she would basically go anywhere
But she lives fairly close so we’ll go somewhere in Tokyo
679 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 21:21
>>677
medium height and build suits me perfectly
gotta get to a barber too
680 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 21:22
>>679
Hairdresser! Make an appointment immediately!
681 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 18/03/04 21:22
>>679
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
not a barber but a hairdresser
687 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 21:24
>>679
You may have already seen it but
lots of sleep
go to hairdresser
clean the brows
clip the nose hairs
clean your ears
day of, shower in the morning (or evening), wash hair
make sure you wash your little willy just in case
xtra mint tablets
packet of tissues and a handkerchief
charge the mobile
keep phone number and address of restaurant on your person
toothpaste
good amount of cash, maybe £100–200
blot oil from face
739 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 21:47
Survey
What do you think Train Man should do.
Please answer each of the following.
-Outfit
-Dinner
-How to prepare
-What to take with
-Topics of conversation, day of
812 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 23:06
There’s a fairly inexpensive Italian restaurant in Ginza that has pretty good food.
It’s got a funny name so . . . well, if you want to use it on your follow-up dates, that’d be cool
http://gourmet.yahoo.co.jp/gourmet/restaurant/Kanto/Tokyo/guide/0202/P000999.html
814 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 23:11
>>812
That name is perfect for me 
815 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 18/03/04 23:11
What’s the story behind that name???
853 Name: Mr Anonymous Post Date: 19/03/04 02:53
Preparations Flow Chart
Day Before
Put tomorrow’s outfit on a hanger. From underwear to jacket. All of it.
Febreeze it.
Prepare all personal hygiene items: tissue, handkerchief, mints, oil paper to blot oil.
Can place items in trouser pocket if need be.
↓
charge your mobile (put restaurant number in phone memory)
↓
go to bed early (try to get 8 hours sleep)
Day Of
Wake up, take a shower
Wash body, head, face. Use Men’s Biore for the face. Don’t rub too hard.
Skin gets too red.
If you shave with a razor then this is when you need to shave.
↓
have a light meal
↓
face care
align the brows, clip nose hair, clean the ears, check for eye goop if you use electric shavers, this is when you shave. Don’t forget to use aftershave.
↓
style the hair
↓
change. If you use cologne, this is when you splash some on. Just a bit on the stomach. Don’t go overboard on the wrists and neck.
↓
Ready to go (check that you have your mobile and wallet. Prepare for worst case, memorise her number, know it by heart).
888 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 19/03/04 13:47
here, thinking that denim and a simple Comme Ça top and jacket would be fine. First buy a pair of jeans you plan on wearing to the date (like the one that was recommended earlier) and then go to the shop and say ‘I want a shirt and jacket to match these jeans, nothing too ostentatious’ and I’m sure they’ll give you a few options. You’ll probably go through the same headaches for your follow-up dates so might as well get a couple of tops. You can’t help but prefer one style over the other but I think you should push for something slightly different from your usual style! Sorry to babble. Go Train Go!
114 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 01:12
Sorry I’m late. I was spending some time preparing and doing some research.
By the way, I have not called Lady Miss Hermes today.
I will follow up yesterday’s story a bit later
I’m basically close to forgetting most of it by now . . .
127 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 01:27
In order for me to steer the conversation towards inviting her to dinner I had the mantra ‘dinner in return for the cups’ from this thread running through my mind.
So I said
‘The cups you gave me must have been really expensive. You really shouldn’t have’
‘Don’t worry I have an “in” at work.
It looks like I’ve made you worry about it unnecessarily.
I’m sorry,’ answered Lady Miss Hermes
I thought this was my chance.
‘It sounds weird to say “in return for the cups” but I’d like to invite you to . . . rghfnmmb njioio’
choked big time. 
129 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 01:29
>>127
sweet 
134 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 01:35
Lady Hermes said ‘What?’
How else could she have responded.
So I repeated myself.
‘Umm . . . how about dinner . . . could I take you out to dinner’
Can’t remember the exact words but it went something like this.
‘You don’t have to be so conscientious you know, it wasn’t a big deal’ 
what-can-I-do popped into my mind
‘Well . . . aaaaa . . .’
There may have been a few seconds of silence.
‘If you agree to split, then I’d be happy to’
‘What?’
I couldn’t help but react like a droopy dog 
137 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 01:36
>>134
me like da way it sounds
138 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 01:36
>>134
da train is here------------!!!!
139 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 01:37
>>134
train’s here-- 
143 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 01:42
‘When you say split . . .’
I asked even though I knew what she was talking about
‘I’d feel bad if you had to pay so . . . what do you say?’
I was about to
Ahyeah-----!!!!
Wanted to scream out loud but I did my best to keep it down and typed with one hand to report back to the thread. I just wanted to let you guys know pronto
‘Are you sure?’
‘We’re splitting ok’
‘Thank you sofyueuyukj much’
I bowed and bowed holding myself together the best I could
‘When do you want to meet?’
‘Whenever is good with me’
My response would have come under ‘desperate’ had this been a 2-Ch exchange
168 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 02:02
‘So I guess we should shoot for Saturday or Sunday’ was Lady Hermes’ preferred schedule
‘That sounds ok with me’
I’d make time for it wheneva but still, had to say something.
‘Then where shall we have dinner?’
‘Ummmm . . .’
It was here that my mind went totally blank
I haven’t even decided where yet 
I quickly turn to the thread and scroll through for any pointers and then send an SOS signal
‘Wherever is fine with me’
‘Aaa . . . um . . . oohh k then . . .’
I wanted to shake myself out of it.
‘Ask if she has any likes or dislikes, food-wise’ I read in the thread. So I just spoke without giving it much further thought.
‘Do you have any likes or dislikes?’
‘I can’t do really spicy . . .’
‘Umm . . . well . . .’
And time slipped away just like that . . . 
174 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 02:13
That’s right. There was no need for me to decide everything right away. I was so nervous I couldn’t even work that out.
‘Well then, could I call you back when I work out where we should eat?’
‘Sure, no problem.’
‘I’ll look for a non-spicy place.’
‘All right.’
We laughed a bit, or at least I think we did.
‘If we’re talking Saturday/Sunday then how about next weekend?’
‘Sure.’
‘All right. I’ll call you again to confirm.’
‘I’ll wait to hear from you.’
And that’s how it ended. After which I was completely drained of all energy. 
193 Name: Black Ship Post Date: 20/03/04 02:26
I got back late today and it took so much time just read through all the postings to catch up.
I see that things are definitely moving in the right direction for Train Man. Even if she made you promise to split the bill, I think you should excuse yourself to go to the bathroom and quickly pay the bill.
When Lady Hermes realises and says ‘you promised we’d split today’ answer that by saying ‘I was the one that asked you out’ to which she would reply ‘You’ll have to let me pay next time.’
That ‘next’ means that you could go to another place for drinks immediately after or maybe arrange for another date on another day.
213 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 02:33
>>198
I don’t know, dude. I mean she was the one who insisted on splitting and you agreed to the conditions so you paying for it may make her overthink the situation, create uneasiness? No?
Well it also depends on how much dinner is . . .
219 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 02:35
Even if you have talked over the phone, Train and Hermes are still strangers.
On top of that, Train saved her from a drunken pervert.
Regardless of the teacups, I think splitting is the standard way to go.
The Geeks go on for a while fired up over the splitting vs paying debate. Train Man leaves to go and say goodbye to his techie outfit and welcome in a new train.
233 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 02:40
She has class, this woman. She sent him a thank you gift. Said that she would rather pay for herself. If he pays, she’s going to feel weird about it.
306 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 03:19
Date Dialogue Forecast
Type 1
Train Man ‘I thought Hermes made bags but they make cups too?’
Hermes ‘There are a lot of other things as well.’
TM ‘Do they make clothes and accessories for men too?’
H ‘Sure they do. Would you like to see their catalogue?’
T ‘Sure. How about next week?’
Scored another date!
Type 2
TM ‘Thank you so much for the pretty cups. I almost feel like I shouldn’t use them.’
H giggles ‘I’m just glad that you liked them’
TM ‘Speaking of cups, do you usually drink tea or coffee?’
H ‘I like tea so yes, I drink tea usually.’
TM ‘Do you make tea yourself?’
H ‘Yes. There are delicious teas out there.’
TM ‘I usually make instant coffee. If you don’t mind, could you show me where I can get good tea leaves?’
H ‘Sure. When do you want to go?’
TM ‘How about next week?’
Scored another date!
Working with the info we have right now, we can guide him pretty well with these simulations.
307 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 03:21
>>306
you sound like you’re havin fun dude
361 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 13:04
I think that since Train Main invited her out to dinner because he thought that the teacups were expensive, he should pay.
If Hermes seems uncomfortable then she can pay for drinks.
If you mention ‘I rarely get the opportunity to go out with women’ as a reason for paying, then I would definitely pull back. I’d think about what you’d be like if you had the opportunity, you know. I think that since the teacups are the main event you shouldn’t mention the opportunity stuff.
435 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 18:23
When’s Train getting home?
443 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 21:12
Just got back . . . 
Tired . . . 
I’ve never spent so much money on clothes
First time using my credit card too
Was charged £30 for my haircut. What da hell is that about . . . 
Though I look kinda hip
Clothes-wise I’m set because the assistant helped me choose
Did you know that you need your insurance card to get contact lenses made? 
Let me go read the log. Laters.
464 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 21:48
I had so many bags that I had to come home to drop them off and headed out again. I’m exhausted . . . but I really do feel like I’ve transformed.
From a long way off you probably couldn’t tell that I was a techie. These contacts are so thin
I also went to the restaurant we picked.
The Japanese creative cuisine place recommended in the thread. Major yum 
I asked one of the in crowd at work to recommend a hair salon I was so embarrassed . . . 
But my hairstyle would definitely not have been possible at the barbershop
First time I’ve ever had my hair cut this short
My head feels kinda floaty
To hell with the expense 
465 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 22:49
>>464
Hey, have you ever worn contacts before?
I don’t know if you should be going on a date after only one week with the new contacts.
473 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 22:53
What kind of outfit did you buy?
Give us a link
475 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 22:54
>>465
You serious . . .
Push comes to shove, I’ll go without my glasses
>>461
I think I still look techie
I’m gonna stick to splitting the bill since we agreed on that already.
481 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 23:03
>>469
>>472
Decided to combine the opinions posted here and the assistant’s suggestions
Grey leather-like jacket
Long-sleeved black top (add a shirt and sweatshirt and divide by 2)
Pair of jeans and trousers to match the jacket
Black socks
Big and hard shoes
That be it
I asked the hairdresser to make me look cool
And off my hair went, supa short (´▪ω▪`)
I can’t describe it well
485 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 20/03/04 23:06
‘big and hard shoes’
that’s a strange description
details please
493 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 23:15
>>485
I guess they look like leather shoes
a little different looking
matches the outfit. Yep, I think so.
Didn’t know that you could buy shoes at clothes shops these days . . .
506 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 20/03/04 23:32
>>494
I got the jacket at Comme Ça Du Mode. This one was the priciest. 
Other stuff from Uniqlo.
545 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 00:21
I commend you brave soldier for going out in the hail and pouring rain to get your shoes, clothes and a haircut to boot.
Finally, Train Man seals the deal with Hermes
604 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 22:01
Ready to seal deal. I’m gonna call her now.
605 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:02
>>604
You can do it dude!
610 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:05
His post is giving off a different aura. I can feel it.
There’s no wimpishness there and it looks like he got more confident by
changing the way he looks.
617 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 22:18
Ok. Just hung up.
Deal has been sealed 
huffpuff 
huffpuff 
huffpuffff
But I was still really nervous 
622 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 22:29
Let me report while it’s still fresh in my memory
‘Hellowww, sorry for calling so late . . .’
‘Hi there, good evening.’
‘About dinner, what would you say to Japanese?’
‘Sure, of course.’
‘Great.’
‘Japanese cuisine suits your vibe.’
‘Really?’
‘Yes.’
‘I’m gonna get dressed up but I don’t want you to make fun of me . . .’ 
‘What? You’re dressing up?’
‘Yes, but I don’t want you to expect too much.’
‘Really? Well then I GUESS I’LL GET DRESSED UP TOO’
‘Sorry to make you feel that way on account of my . . .’
‘Don’t worry about it so much’
Something like that . . .
I may have messed up a bit . . . 
623 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:30
>>622
No, it sounds real good. For real, Train Man rising.
624 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:30
Rising for Hermes
632 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:34
Sounds like your integrity or strength of character is what’s doing the business.
I mean Hermes is already convinced of it to begin with.
I’m getting excited about the date!
636 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 22:38
Really? You think I did ok?
I thought I dropped so many clangers.
Phew! Thanks, as always.
641 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 22:48
Thanks people. Really. Really. Thank you.
I’m gonna try my best.
651 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 22:58
Man oh man. It’s like
Train Man Mega-Rising
652 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 23:00
Honestly, I haven’t really thought about going out, you know, girlfriend-boyfriend like with Lady Miss Hermes or anything. Though it is true that I kind of think of it as a ‘gotta grab this or I’ll never get another chance at it’ type of thing
But I have these feelings for her already
When I heard her voice just now, I felt something that wasn’t nervousness
I’m pretty sure I’m gonna fall for her if I see her . . . 
She could already have a boyfriend
In that case I could be asking for trouble if I fall for her
Kinda tough
660 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 23:06
Train Man, you are shinin
You are no longer a Geek. Don’t change what you are.
Don’t try too hard to be something you’re not and just have a fun night with Lady Miss Hermes.
Look at it this way. Meeting her gave you the chance to change.
And don’t ever come back here, you get me.
Good luck.
666 Name: Train Man ♦ nm4g8qV1Cg Post Date: 21/03/04 23:11
Thank you everybody. Reading your posts I end up feeling stronger and more confident, like things are going to work out just fine.
I gotta thank you guys and go suss out my feelings!
667 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 23:12
Train Man seems so sincere and is really . . . budding
Are you going to the place I suggested?
I’m really cheering you on so keep at it!
My instinct says that Lady Hermes already quite attracted to you
I don’t think she’s going out with you because she couldn’t say no on account of some unwritten social law
677 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 21/03/04 23:17
Watching Train Man, I realise that
it’s what’s on the inside that counts
not that Train’s ugly or anything
759 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 22/03/04 15:47
I think somebody mentioned this earlier but our Train does not need any of our run of the mill advice anymore.
He’s back on track.
Everyone’s being so overprotective. So kind.
893 Name: 731 aka Train Man Post Date: 24/03/04 22:36
Hiya. Been a while.
I’m ready to roll. I’m now deep in make-over land as I prepare for the day.
Some of you offered to put the info together for me but I’ve already been doing that myself, so thanks.
I wonder if I’ll get any sleep the day before.
987 Name: Train Man ♦ SgHguKHEFY Post Date: 26/03/04 14:03
ello-ello. I got a half day today.
I’m feeling jittery . . . 
The cool guy at work gave me some guide he thought would come in handy on the date.
125 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 27/03/04 13:18
wonderin when Mr trainman is gonna pay us a visit . . .
a-wonderin’ 
a-wonderin’
126 Name: Train Man ♦ SgHguKHEFY Post Date: 27/03/04 14:16
just woke up. Will start preparing now
128 Name: Anonymous Post Date: 27/03/04 14:19
preparing must mean that it’s today?
129 Name: Train Man ♦ SgHguKHEFY Post Date: 27/03/04 14:21
Today. From now. Few more hours ghiuliliuhjy
150 Name: Train Man ♦ SgHguKHEFY Post Date: 27/03/04 17:53
I’m ready to go.
I wanted to thank everybody for being there for me, the doomed Geek.
I owe it to you guys. Your words of encouragement and support are what gave me the strength to go for it. Seems like I’ve only been here for a flash in time but it also feels like a long, long time.
I will report back when I return.
Laters.
Our techie, age = years without a girlfriend, virgin is ready to go. Will God smile down on him?