Jude and Madoc had always had a complicated relationship. As a mortal girl living in the faerie world, Jude had struggled to find her place among the magical creatures that surrounded her. Madoc, a powerful faerie general, had been responsible for her parents' deaths, and Jude had grown up hating him for it.
But over time, their relationship had begun to shift. As Jude grew older and more experienced in the faerie world, she began to see Madoc in a different light. She could still remember the pain of losing her parents, but she also knew that Madoc had played a role in raising her and protecting her from the dangers of the faerie court.
One day, Jude found herself alone with Madoc in the gardens of the castle. They sat down together on a bench, and Jude took a deep breath.
"Madoc," she said, "I know we've had our differences in the past. But I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done for me. I know that you've always had my best interests at heart."
Madoc was surprised by Jude's words, but he smiled warmly at her. "Thank you, Jude," he said. "You've grown into a strong and capable young woman, and I'm proud of you."
They sat there in silence for a few moments, enjoying the warmth of the sun on their faces. Then, Madoc turned to Jude and said, "You know, I used to take your mother out to these gardens when she was your age. We would sit on this same bench and talk for hours."
Jude looked up at Madoc, surprised by his words. "Really?" she said.
Madoc nodded. "Your mother was a remarkable woman," he said. "She had a fierce spirit, just like you."
Jude smiled at the memory of her mother. "I miss her," she said.
Madoc put his arm around Jude's shoulder. "I know," he said. "But you're not alone, Jude. You have me, and you have your siblings. We're family, and we'll always be here for you."
Jude leaned into Madoc's embrace, feeling a sense of peace and comfort wash over her. She knew that their relationship was still complicated, and that there would be more challenges to come. But for now, she was content to sit here with Madoc, enjoying the quiet moment of bonding between them.