Board Thread:Character Discussion/@comment-26125643-20150404195634/@comment-25926288-20150406203653

Well, no one mentioned it was magical. Also, Cora knew Regina was trying to push her and every magic user ever (Jafar, Mal, Zelena, Ingrid, etc) can tell if someone has potential for magic. She even taught someone afterwards. She just underestimated that that would happen, but still Regina overpowered her spell. They never said magical, but if you can tell me where I'll gladly check. It's like when Rumple said final battle, an actual magic and sword battle didn't commence.

Ap was likely not freed simply for plot reasons. I assume so because they seemingly forgot about him and their whole plan. Their plan was free the faires, then free the apprentice. SO, maybe soon they'll free him and he'll probably be helpful against Rumple's plan.