Locked in a tower to prove her claim or face death, she is visited by . He offers to spin the gold in exchange for her firstborn child. However, Cora convinces him to teach her the magic instead. As they work together, they fall in love and plan to run away, changing their contract so the child will be theirs .
The flashback reveals a young, impoverished Cora working as a miller's daughter. After being humiliated by Princess Eva (Snow White's mother), Cora lies to King Xavier, claiming she can spin straw into gold.
This episode is critical for understanding the "Nature vs. Nurture" theme of the show. It highlights:
This guide covers , a pivotal episode of the fantasy drama series Once Upon a Time , which first aired on March 10, 2013. This episode serves as the definitive origin story for Cora (the Queen of Hearts) and explores the tragic roots of her relationship with Rumplestiltskin. Episode Overview Season/Episode: Season 2, Episode 16 Original Air Date: March 10, 2013 Director: Ralph Hemecker Writer: Jane Espenson Plot Summary In the Enchanted Forest (The Past)