ABC has released the plot synopsis for the upcoming midseason premiere of Once Upon a Time, picking up with Storybrooke attempting to adjust to normal life again.

'Once Upon a Time's Regina 'Furthering' Her Pursuit Of Happiness & Search For The Author In New Episodes?

The next episode of Once Upon a Time is ominously titled Darkness on the Edge of Town and according to the new plot synopsis, it is a very appropriate title. The episode sees Mr. Gold/Rumplestiltskin (Robert Carlyle) attempting to return to Storybrooke with the Queens of Darkness, a.k.a. Maleficent (Kristin Bauer van Straten), Cruella de Vil (Victoria Smurfit) and Ursula (Merrin Dungey).

"With Gold banished from town, the residents of Storybrooke attempt to resume their normal lives," the synopsis reads. "Hook [Colin O'Donoghue] and Belle [Emilie de Ravin] search for a way to release the fairies from the Sorcerer's hat, while Emma [Jennifer Morrison], Henry [Jared Gilmore] and Regina [Lana Parrilla] continue to look for clues that could lead them to the Author. But when a terrifying darkness descends on the town, Emma and Regina are forced to confront the true nature of evil. Meanwhile, in New York, Gold and Ursula enlist Cruella De Vil to join their cause."

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This episode appears to be a significant one in terms of setting everything up for the latter half of the season. As is often the case, many characters are off doing their own thing but it can be assumed that everyone's storylines will converge, likely involving a climax with the Queens of Darkness facing off against Storybrooke and anyone that stands in the way of their happy endings.

Once Upon a Time returns for the second half of season 4 on Sunday, March 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Watch the new promo for the next episode of Once Upon a Time below:

Tags: Once Upon A Time television ABC