"Would it be alright if I see I?" Merlin asked, trying to not sound to eager. But he admit admit, the more he heard about Rapunzel's magic the more curious he was about it.

"Yes. His wife died because of magic, and ever since then...when it comes to magic, he's blind. He never listens to reason. It doesn't matter if someone uses magic for good or for ill - Uther will have anyone who uses it executed," Merlin said. "Still, I imagine it would have been lonely. I love my mother, but I think I'd go mad if I only ever had her to talk to. Didn't you say you did end up leaving, though? And, well, you're here now."