Arrgh! I just couldn't get over the last image of the dagger in the S4 Finale. So, like I did with Winter, I want to explore over the hiatus just what I think would happen next. I hope you enjoy…..

Falling into Darkness

By Caillean

Prologue: The Sacrifice

The dagger fell to the asphalt and the sound of it reverberated through the center of town. Killian couldn't help but notice the way the metal of the blade caught the light from the overhead streetlamp, sparkling like crystal as it settled. He knew the name that would be there, washing away the script that once proclaimed Rumpelstiltskin.

Now it would be emblazoned with two words:

Emma.

Swan.

"I love you."

The last words she spoke to him before throwing her body into the swirling darkness, sacrificing herself for the town, for Regina, for her parents, for Henry.

You.

For him.

I love you.

He tore his gaze away from the blade and found Emma still standing, eyes closed and hands clenched to her side.

"Emma." Killian ran over to where she stood, swaying lightly. He felt Charming and Snow follow him, calling out the name of their daughter. He grasped her arms, steadying her. "Emma, are you ok?"

He didn't care if she lashed out, if the evil had already taken full hold of her. He didn't care, she was his Swan, and he would protect her with his life. Whatever it took.

"Hook." Her voice, almost a whisper, grabbed his heart and squeezed. She was in pain, that much was obvious.

"Shssh. I've got you, love. Let's get you home."

As she passed out from exhaustion, he gathered her up in his arms and turned an imploring gaze at Charming. An unspoken question hung in the air between them. Was it safe to bring her into the same home as baby Neal? She seemed not changed at all right now, but when she truly awoke?

Regina walked up and cleared her throat. "My vault is secure and has a room there. We can keep her comfortable until… well, until we know what's going on." She held the dagger in her hands. "In the meantime, Snow… I think you should keep this safe."

Tears in her eyes, Snow took the blade from Regina solemnly and nodded.

"Let's go."

Well, here we go! I hope you do follow along and please let me know what you think as the story continues... I really live for hearing from you all! - Caillean.