Board Thread:General Discussion/@comment-5205908-20141215200741/@comment-25926288-20150116235134

Well, since I don't particularly dive deeply into the romantic relationships of the show, I think it's a good idea to allow Belle the chance to grow as a character. Not meaning forced conflict or something, but Belle hasn't been much of a main focus as of late, making cameos here and there. I understand why Rumple is doing what he is doing and with great reason Belle should distance herself from that. Her punishment was quite harsh, leaving a crippled man lost in a world without magic, but I can't blame her either.

This allows for character growth for Rumple and Belle. Rumple and Belle's relationship may grow to the next level, or perhaps not. As I saw, Rumple's lust for power was only rivaled by his love for his son, which eventually won. So, he and Belle have a ways to go. Hope it isn't 200 or so years!