Ep 17. Best Laid Plans

In the seventeenth episode of Once Upon a Time's fourth season, entitled "Best Laid Plans," Emma (Jennifer Morrison) and Mary Margaret (Ginnifer Goodwin) try to figure out their pasts while Gold (Robert Carlyle) keeps himself busy by babysitting an adorable baby. Meanwhile, Hook (Colin O'Donoghue) tries to find out what Emma’s hiding and Regina (Lana Parrilla) and Robin Hood (Sean Maguire) continue to grow closer.

In the Enchanted Forest, the episode centers around Snow White and Prince Charming’s plan to stop Maleficent from having a child by the Dark One. Determined to turn the tables on their evil nemesis, the couple plots for weeks and comes up with a devious plan involving a baby with a secret. In the present, Mary Margaret and David (Josh Dallas) must face the consequences of their actions all those years ago, when Emma discovers their plot.

Emma and Mary Margaret must face past mistakes they've made and decide how to move forward in this episode. Emma is still reeling from discovering that Mary Margaret and David were behind Maleficent’s daughter, while Mary Margaret wants to make amends. The two women ultimately come to a decision that will affect their futures.

Gold, on the other hand, has his own hands full as he watches over Prince Neal. Determined to be the best grandparent he can be, Gold takes on the responsibility of caring for the baby without any help. He is determined to keep the little prince safe while teaching him valuable dark magic skills. As their bond grows, it becomes clear that Gold is willing to do anything to protect him, even if it means making a deal with the devil.

Meanwhile, Hook isn’t quite sure what to make of Emma’s mysterious behavior. He knows that something is going on with her but doesn’t know what. As he tries to uncover the truth, Hook runs into unexpected obstacles.

In another story line, Regina continues to struggle with her past deeds. As she tries to make amends and earn forgiveness, Regina discovers that she is not the only one with a guilty conscience. Robin must deal with his own past mistakes and try to make them right before it’s too late. As the two begin to grow closer, it is unclear whether or not they will be able to put their pasts behind them and move forward as a couple.

Overall, "Best Laid Plans" is a pivotal episode for Once Upon a Time’s fourth season. It explores the themes of redemption and forgiveness, while also delving deeper into the characters’ pasts and motivations. The episode ends on a cliffhanger that will leave fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next episode.