The King's sister

1

IThe chambers of young Margaret Beaufort were filled with an eerie silence as she gave birth to her first child. The young mother's cries and screams echoed in the room as she fervently prayed, hoping to survive and bear a son for her husband and kingdom. Her husband, Edmund Tudor, needed a boy for an heir, in case King Henry's son, Prince Edward, were to pass away.

"You are doing so well, my lady! One more push and you shall meet your boy," whispered the midwife, who was worried that Lady Margaret would not survive the birth because of her young age. Margaret, the Countess of Richmond, was only 13 years old.

The room was dimly lit by a few candles, casting shadows on the walls as the young countess struggled to bring new life into the world. After one last push, a cry of a babe filled the air, and the midwife quickly tended to the baby. Margaret's labor pains continued, and another cry soon followed.

"Twins, my Lady Richmond! A boy and a girl, the boy is the firstborn," exclaimed the midwife, her eyes wide with joy as she smiled at the young mother who was doing well. Margaret's face lit up with happiness as she quickly started to dote on her children, kissing and blessing them.

"They are the most precious gifts to me. They are my husband's last gifts to me. I did not think I would give birth to a second child, but she is a welcome gift," informed Margaret, her voice filled with love and gratitude. The midwife and the maids carefully cleaned the young countess and her children, making sure they were comfortable and well-cared for.

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Margaret, with a gentle smile on her face, introduced her brother-in-law, Jasper, to her newborn niece and nephew, Lady Catherine Joan Tudor and Lord Henry Owen Tudor. The infants were healthy and lively, cooing and moving in their mother's arms. As Jasper looked at them, he couldn't help but smile at their adorable faces. 

Young Henry had dark hair and grey eyes, which sparkled with curiosity and wonder. His sister, on the other hand, had dark brown hair that was almost black and honey-brown eyes that looked almost golden, with a slight hint of mischief. 

Jasper's heart ached as he thought of his brother, Edmund, who had passed away before he could see his children. "Edmund would have been pleased by these wonderful blessings," he said softly, as he held little Henry in his arms. "It's a shame he's not here to greet them. Should I write to the king?" he asked, looking at his sister-in-law. 

The young countess yawned sleepily, but her eyes shone with gratitude and appreciation. "Yes, please do," she said softly. "The king would be glad to hear of his new subjects."