I noticed that for some reason I was able to open her manacles with a character that did not have the Open Locks skill. I'd hate to see this get abused even if it is only for 100 xp per reset.

The open locks option does require a roll, so it isn't automatic. Sometimes you are able to open them, sometimes you can convince someone to give you the key, sometimes you have to pay.

It IS basically a free 100xp (or not free if you have to resort to buying a key), but it has a level 2 cap. It's basically an intro quest for new characters to get some easy xp, or good for people who are down on their luck and fall back to level 2.