Ep 9. The Bear King

In this episode of Once Upon a Time, titled The Bear King, we see the residents of Storybrooke continue to navigate the aftermath of the Dark Swan's actions. King Arthur remains a looming threat, but a new enemy emerges in the form of King Fergus, ruler of the neighboring kingdom of DunBroch.

Merida, the fiery-haired princess of DunBroch, needs Emma and the rest of the Storybrooke crew's help when her father, King Fergus, is turned into a bear by the powerful sorceress, the Witch. Seeking help from an enchanted tome, Merida learns of a magical helm which could be the key to saving her father.

Emma and the rest of the gang team up with Merida to venture into the murky, curse-laden forest. They are pursued by King Arthur's knights, intent on capturing the powerful Dark One. Along the way, Merida struggles to come to terms with her father's sudden transformation, and the pressure of being a young leader in a politically charged world.

As they delve deeper into the dark woods, they encounter unexpected allies and enemies alike. The journey proves to be treacherous, as they must battle not only mystical creatures, but their own inner demons as well.

The episode is sprinkled with flashbacks exploring Merida's past, and her troubled relationship with her father. These flashbacks help to reveal the motivations behind Merida's quest, and underscore the complex and layered relationships at the heart of Once Upon a Time.

Filled with action, adventure, and emotional depth, The Bear King is a thrilling episode that continues to expand on the rich and fascinating world of Once Upon a Time. Fans of the show will be swept up in the excitement and drama of this latest installment, as the stakes continue to rise for our beloved characters.