Just out of curiosity, how long is this story going to be? I hope it doesn't end soon after the baby arrives. The story so far has been extremely interesting, but we still haven't really seen Pippin as a parent, and preparing for a baby can't compare to actually having the baby and trying to learn how to deal with it, especially if you're young and not ready for such a responsibility. The summary gave me the impression that the story was going to focus on Pippin dealing with fatherhood *after* the baby is born. From your opening paragraph, I'm sure you're going to kill off poor Lilas and the baby at some point, but if it's too soon after the baby's birth, it would be seem anticlimatic to me.
Of course, the opening doesn't say they die at the same time, does it? Hmm, if Lilas were to die and leave Pippin to raise the baby alone, that would be *really* interesting (not to mention tragic, since the baby has to die as well eventually. Poor Pip!).
I'd better stop imagining possible outcomes, 'cause whenever I do that I am inevitably way off. I'll be waiting for the next update and hoping to see plenty of the baby before you're through with her (fingers crossed).
Keep up the excellent writing!
Author's reply
Nothing escapes you, does it Beruthiel? ;-) Very good questions, indeed, and I shall answer them.
How long... I don't know how long this story will be, as it's not finished. I wrote the story this way (unfinished) on purpose for many reasons. One was in case one of my "resources" gave me an idea later in the tale. I figure that there are many "pregnant stories" out there, and no two are the same, as neither are the mothers. I've known from the start exactly what I wanted to convey and when, and so I've kept up with that idea.
Fatherhood... You are on the money, there, Beruthiel. Of course I plan to cover Pippin as a father, but unfortunately I can't get too deep into this particular answer, but I *will* answer it as best as I can. I originally was going to skip all through the pregnancy but then realized that I was missing a chunk of the emotions and detail of the "preparations" for parenthood. There would also have to be an adjustment period for Pippin and Lias as husband and wife in order to be successful, or at least, loving parents towards the baby. That "adjustment" was done over the course of many, many, chapers as I believe something like this would need time--even for our beloved AU Pippin, to warm up to. Nothing truly prepares a person for actual parenthood until the baby arrives.
Dying at the same time? Well...you'll just have wait and see!, er I mean, read! I won't hide that some folks will be needing tissues or cyber-hankies for some upcoming chapters--myself included! I painted most of the picture, as a sort of warning, like you said in the opening chapter. I truly, never expected readers to fall for Lilas...even me.
Thank you, Beruthiel, for your questions and sweet words of encouragement--and I believe you've even called me on a bit of a slip at one time...thank you! :-) Thank you for reading Roses, and for all of your wonderful responses!
Pippinfan
Connie
· 9 July 2004
· Chapter 29: Goodnight
Oh, what a sweet, sad chapter. I feel so much for Lilas. To think she had to ask if Pippin would give their child good-night kisses even when he was not pleased with something she had done, that is just so sad. I know there are families where affection is tied to behavior, but I couldn't live like that. Heck, I felt bad when we were camping this week and I sent my daughter to bed without a goodnight kiss. I didn't remember until she and her friend were both asleep, so I didn't wake her; but I made sure to tell her I loved her the next morning.
Thank goodness Pippin has a good family and understands that love for your children is unconditional. Even when you're so mad at them that you can't see straight, you never stop loving them. You know, I wish I had him for a relative. I think Pippin would make a great big brother.
Thanks so much for this chapter. I'm nervously, and excitedly, waiting for more. Nervous because I know something "not good" is going to happen.
Connie.
Author's reply
Connie, you are fantastic! Telling your daughter how much you loved her in the morning because you forgot to kiss her the night before is far better than anything I could've ever written! That was so sweet! I love it when mothers and daughters are very close.
I purposely wrote Pippin and his family with much compassion (with lots of help from Pearl and Myst)in this story, and likewise in my other non-AU canon-ish fics. Though I can't say the same for *all* of my canon characters--and I can accept that many folks don't agree with it.
Nervous??? Over what, pray tell? Over the course of this story, even the author has taken a shine to Lilas. She almost caved in when the readers wanted Pippin to fall in love with her. But no, she stuck to her guns. I've written this story with a purpose from the start, and I almost hate to see the ending draw near myself, but alas! We must make room for Pippin to go on with his life and discover another love so much deeper and beautiful. Thanks again, Connie, for your words of kindness and encouragement.
Pippinfan
Pervinca
· 7 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
That was so very sweet of Pippin! He's such a dear isn't he. Did I miss you posting the chapter before this one - discussing the naming of the baby - or did you post them together? Would not surprise me if it was the former. I'm completely hopeless!
- Pervinca
Author's reply
Nonsense!! You are never hopeless in the least! It's easy to miss a chapter, even with alerts placed on them. I'm sometimes in the middle of a certain task when I get my alerts, then close them with the intent of getting back to the story. I usually do, but it may take a couple days! Thank you, Pervinca, for persevering! There is light at the end of the tunnel! ;-)
Pippinfan
Author Reply: Nonsense!! You are never hopeless in the least! It's easy to miss a chapter, even with alerts placed on them. I'm sometimes in the middle of a certain task when I get my alerts, then close them with the intent of getting back to the story. I usually do, but it may take a couple days! Thank you, Pervinca, for persevering! There is light at the end of the tunnel! ;-)
Pippinfan
Rosie-Ann
· 6 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
*sobs* Oh, it's so beautiful!!!!! *pulls out her embroidered hanky*
*sniff* Heh...sorry. That time of month and I'm amazingly emotional. I just went to see Spiderman 2 and I BAWLED!!! But it is so lovely!
*ponders* Is it really true that pregnant women can get really...YOU know? Goodness me if it is! I never thought about that. I didn't know you could even...well...YOU know...when you were pregnant. *blushes* Goodness, I feel as awkward as Lilas right now. *blushes brighter* Even more to learn before I get married, I suppose. And after. *grins* I think I'll focus on growing up first, though. Oh, GOODness! *blushes again*
Author's reply
Thanks, Rosie! Don't feel awkward about those questions...that's what helped Lilas get into her predicament. Her mother felt awkward about talking about it. Though I can PM you in response. Take care.
Pippinfan
p.s. Haven't seen Spiderman 2 yet...
Meldewen Ilce
· 5 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
Oh I loved that last chapter - I have tears in my eyes as it appears Pippin has finally fallen in love with his wife!
Please UPDATE soon!
Author's reply
Just remember, appearances can be deceiving...not that Pippin *doesn't" love her, just not *in* love with her. A person can be oh so romantic, and yet not be in love with the object of his/her affections. There is a difference, and trust me, it happens. Take care, and hope you stay around for more, because the baby will be appearing shortly...
Pippinfan
Connie
· 5 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
How sweet. That was such a beautiful act. It is wonderful that Pippin has come to accept his situation and is determined to make it the best it can be, for both of them. He is growing up so much. So is Lilas for that matter.
Looking forward to what comes next.
Connie.
Author's reply
Thank you, Connie--and I'm glad you picked up on all of that. Marriages and babies do have a way of making *some* folks grow up. Things are going to pick up here in a bit... Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Beruthiel
· 5 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
I may have just said "Awwwww" out loud. Good thing I'm alone or I might have severely embarrassed myself. My grinning like an idiot probably wouldn't have helped.
Needless to say, this is a most remarkably sweet chapter. Of course, Pippin had to outdo Sam's proposal. I can certainly see why Lilas loves him.
Author's reply
I can relate there...my dog gives me strange looks when I laugh at funny tales or coo sweet "awwws"! Thank you, Beruthiel! The Big One is coming up... Take care.
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 5 July 2004
· Chapter 28: Exceeding Sam
Cake again? And strawberries! You always make me hungry PF! I loved this chapter. Merry was right and Pip did a wonderful job of it. The marble game was cute too. That little stinker, eating that marble! Very like a three-year-old. Great chapter, so where is the rest of the story?????
Author's reply
Easy there, lass! Seems we're both hobbits at heart--we LOVE food! Just be lucky I didn't wave another bowl of chicken stew under your nose! :-) The Rest of the Story...is coming up! Take care, GW!
Pippinfan
p.s. Yes, were are both a bit odd in that regard--I can't be serious for too long, either! :-)
That was a very nice chapter. Nothing at all graphic about it. Very sweet.
Author's reply
Why thank you! :-) Thank you for reading Roses and taking the time to leave a comment!
Pippinfan
melilot hill
· 2 July 2004
· Chapter 27: Pillow Talk
What a sweet chapter! Thank you for this great story :)
Author's reply
Your welcome! And thank you for reading and taking the time to review! I love them all!
Pippinfan
Connie
· 2 July 2004
· Chapter 27: Pillow Talk
Oh, how sweet. I'm grinning from ear to ear.
Pippin is going to make a great father. I am curious to see what his reaction is when it turns out the baby is a girl. I know he'll love just the same.
Oh, please, keep the chapters coming.
Connie.
Author's reply
LOL...you remembered!! Not many readers remember the opening paragraph. Why hide it? Its there for the reading if anyone wants. Yes, I have many ideas for Pippin's fatherhood...he's a heart stealer, he is! Stay tuned...
Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Pippinfan
Pearl Took
· 28 June 2004
· Chapter 26: Made for Each Other
This is a wonderfully crafted chapter. I love the way you go back and forth between Lilas' telling of the matter and Pippin's. (and you can't give me any credit for that, you did that all on your own :) ) This is a sensitively, beautifully written story and I'm loving it.
Pervinca
· 28 June 2004
· Chapter 26: Made for Each Other
You put that Pervinca/Merimas scene in just to spite me, didn't you? lol Do pregnant lasses really behave like that? :P
I liked the way you tied in the two conversations with each other. Cute that Pippin knew when to stop, while Lilas had to be cut off by Pim :P
- Pervinca
Author's reply
A lot of pregnant women do experience some level of randiness, so I addressed it. I don't think "attacking" their husbands was/is the norm, however, I used it as a vehicle to humorously convey "the feeling". But as I explained to another reader, we'll be going onto other things now...
:-) You liked that bit with Merimas, eh? Merimas is a *healer*, Vinca! Tell me lass, could Everard Took have made you happier???? This is for your own good! (evil laughter)
Pippinfan
Beruthiel
· 27 June 2004
· Chapter 26: Made for Each Other
Bluegrass Elf
· 27 June 2004
· Chapter 26: Made for Each Other
That was rather graphic. Last chapter was realy nice though.
Author's reply
Really? I'm sorry; in my opinion, I thought chapter 25 was the "graphic" one. Shows just how different our views are. Either way, there really won't be much more of this going on because although "sharing love" is a part of marriage, it's not the central theme of this story. And I do thank you for your honesty. Take care.
Pippinfan
Connie
· 27 June 2004
· Chapter 26: Made for Each Other
LOL. I know exactly where Lilas is coming from in this chapter. Something tells me that Pippin better make sure he gets a good nap on this fishing trip.
There is something so sweet about Lilas and Pippin as a couple.
Connie.
Author's reply
Thanks, Connie! It's revlieving to know yet another suffered through this "malady"! Thank for reading.
Pippinfan
Rosie-Ann
· 25 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
*grins* In response to your response...
I have a couple friends who dubbed me Rose Peregrine Took, because they said I was Pippin as a girl. ^_^
Like I said before - Wonderful story. Keep it coming so I don't go insane!
~Rosie-Ann
Author's reply
Thank you, Rosie-Peregrine! ;-) There's more to come...
Pippinfan
Miriel
· 25 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
This is excellent, and a very tasteful way of handling what could potentially be a not-so-nice story.
I was very happy at the end of this chapter. It was nice to see them love each other over time.
Oh, and in the Prologue...it sounded like someone dies? If you kill Lilas I'll never forgive you...just go AU all the way and forget about Diamond. :)
Can't wait to see Pippin become a father...lol, it's just funny, since in my Pippin fic he's only like 9 years old...and now he has kids!
thanks for your quick updates. Wish I could do that.
~Miriel
Author's reply
You guys are making me (almost!) feel guilty for the prologue...and nearly dragged me into your wishes and desires for the lass! lol... However, I'm holding true to my original vision for the story; and I've already told Pearl Took to keep me on my toes--to rein me in should I begin to stray.
I, too, love to write my Merry and Pippin as children! LOL...the sky's the limit as to their mischief. I was happy to read how you felt about the story, and I while I can't stay away altogether from humor, it will fit the situation and not be out of place. Thanks for reading! :-)
Pippinfan
Pervinca
· 25 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
Now *this* is the chapter I've been waiting for :P I thought you wrote it very well. I plan on avoiding any sexual situations in my stories when I can - I think I'd feel weird writing them. I just hope that Pippin remembers to be very gentle with her!
I'm still worried about my dear elder sister (;P). Poor Pim - I'll just have to hope that you have something nice planned for her in the end.
- Pervinca
Author's reply
Happy to oblige, Pervinca! :-) I was a bit nervous with what I wrote, and I can't ever see myself going more graphic than this. This is probably the only story that I will get so detailed with the "joy" of marriage.
As for Pim, time will heal. Thanks for reading, Pervinca!
Pippinfan
melilot hill
· 25 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
This was such a beautiful chapter! Finally Pippin loves Lilas too, the way Lilas loves him. I especially liked your ending.
Author's reply
Thank you, Melilot! I wanted to keep is simple and sweet. Pippin does love Lilas, though he may not be *in* love with her. Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Connie
· 24 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
Oh how beautiful.
I had wanted to review this for a long time, but I kept talking myself out of it. Well, now I've decided not to keep quiet any longer. I LOVE THIS STORY!
People may want to throw pulpy fruit and such at me, but I think that of the four hobbits, Pippin would be the one to get himself into a situation like this. He is so impulsive that he often doesn't think about the consiquences of his actions. I know something like this would never really have happened, but the speculation is fascinating.
I really have come to like Lilas. And that is going to make the outcome all the sadder.
I am so glad that they have finally, lovingly come together. Pippin meant it this time. Aaawwww, with a sigh of relief thrown in.
Please update soon.
Connie.
Author's reply
Why thank you, Connie! You hit the nail on the head--this is all mere speculation, but how interesting to explore it! Your reasoning is exactly why I chose Pippin. And as I wrote in the beginning, this is not my "real" Pippin, either. Ch. 26 is ready for posting, and it's quite cute, I must say. In future chapters, they will be dealing more with Lilas' pregnancy and preparing for the baby's arrival.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review Roses--I realize this story is quite unnerving to some--and I understand that, which is why I put that huge AU warning before chapter one. Thank you for braving the pulpy fruit!
Pippinfan
Beruthiel
· 24 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
Wow.
How is this going to affect their relationship? What happens next? Hope you're not stuck anymore; if you take too long to update I will die of curiosity.
This is an absolutely lovely chapter. Eagerly awaiting the next!
Author's reply
Don't die on me, Beruthiel! I'm not stuck at all, just in extreme lack of time to write. Between trying to prepare my house for market and working...and my favoritest of hobbies (writing)...I'm loaded down trying to keep up with you avid readers! :-) But I love this story, too, and so I plug on.
Chapter 26 is waiting in the wings, but I like my little bit of cushion...Ch. 27 is being written as soon as I am finished with my "Thank you" responses here at SOA. Its important to me to respond to those who have taken the time themselves to read and review Roses--thank you! :-)
Pippinfan
Rosie-Ann
· 24 June 2004
· Chapter 25: Loving and Tender
Oh, Pippinfan, this is so beautiful!!!!
There's so much I wanted to say about this story, but my stupid comp wouldn't let me leave a review, and I've forgotten...but this story is really moving me.
I love Estella and Merry, and I love that Sam proposed, and I want to know more! I want to know what happened, and how Pip ended up with Diamond of Longcleeve after! *sigh*
Beautiful.
~Rosie-Ann
Author's reply
Mercy, Rosie-Ann! You're like Pippin--you *must* know, and you *must* know NOW! LOL... Things are coming along nicely, as you see, and we'll see more of Lilas and Pippin dealing with pregnancy and preparing for baby. As for Diamond, I'm not really wanting to go down that road...I'll try to leave enough room though for the readers' imaginations. Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Pippinfan
p.s. Hope your comp is behaving better! :-P
Pervinca
· 21 June 2004
· Chapter 24: Dreams of Hope, Dreams Shattered
*sniffle* Such a sad chapter, possibly moreso because I'm in an emotional state at the moment. I really know how Lilas feels, but fortunately, not how Pim does. I was so glad you included that little bit of humour like you always do, just enough to stop this chapter from breaking my heart completely.
Still no actual decisions made about the baby's name! Those two need to get their act together and start making a list.
- Pervinca
Author's reply
I'm sorry that the chapter brought out ugly memories or feelings for you--hope you're feeling a bit better today. I can't help it...humor filters into all my stories, but in this tale I try to use it to lighten a situation. The baby's name is coming along...we'll see it here shortly! Take care Pervinca! :-)
Pippinfan
Beruthiel
· 20 June 2004
· Chapter 24: Dreams of Hope, Dreams Shattered
Superb chapter! Pippin and Lilas' chat at the beginning was both sweet and sad; sweet because it showed their growing friendship and affection for each other, and Lilas' love for Pippin; sad because said love is not mutual.
I particularly liked Lilas saying that one of the few things she can enjoy is watching Pippin sleep. If I ever had any doubts about the sincerity of her feelings, that settled them.
Poor Pimpernel. What she's going through must be terrible.
"He (Pippin) hoped and prayed that he would never have to experience what she (Pim) was describing." Could this be foreshadowing, by any chance?
Author's reply
This is yet another fantastic review for ch. 24 that I've had. Your feedback helps tremendously. As I told another reviewer, I've been stuck on ch. 26, but I think between the two reviews, my inspirations and imagination can go on. Love may be demonstrated in certain ways, but it doens't necessarily mean that they're in love...that's what I wanted to show from the beginning, but ch. 26 stumped me. No more. Thanks, Beruthiel!
Pippinfan
btw, a foreshadowing? You won't hear it from me...