Thats one of the themes were starting to explore this episode and this season: What is normal?
Horowitz said after the screening of Sundays Cinderella-themed episode.
But despite everything Emma has gone through, Horowitz noted shes always stayed strong.

Credit: ABC/Jack Rowand
The thing we love about Hook and Emma is showing the real relationship, Kitsis said.
She has Regina by her side.
The relationship between Regina and Snow is complicated theres a lot to clean up, Horowitz added.
This is an example we can be very inspired by.
Im inspired by the way they write these women to be a better woman every day.
Now the question remains: Whos the person under the hood who will apparently slay Emma?
Well find out sooner than you think.
Keep watching, theres more from the Oracle coming soon, Kitsis said.
The cloaked figure
You will have that answer by Christmas, Horowitz said.
Once Upon a Timeairs Sundays at 8 p.m.
Reporting by Ruth Kinane.