Last Rites (Once Upon a Time)

"Last Rites" is the eleventh episode of the fifth season of the American fantasy drama television series Once Upon a Time. It aired on ABC on December 6, 2015.

The episode focuses primarily on the character of King Arthur in Storybrooke, as well as flashbacks to his time in Camelot. Arthur seeks to reignite Excalibur, now in two pieces, to restore his kingdom to its former glory. Emma Swan, as the Dark One, possesses the other half of the sword and is manipulating Arthur to her own ends.

Key plot points in "Last Rites" include:

• Arthur's increasing desperation and descent into madness as he tries to control Guinevere and reclaim his power.
• The revelation of how Arthur became king and the questionable means he used to pull the sword from the stone.
• Emma's continued manipulation of the residents of Storybrooke, often playing on their desires and fears.
• The growing tensions between the heroes, particularly regarding how to deal with Emma's Dark One status and Arthur's increasingly erratic behavior.
• The episode culminates in a confrontation and a significant turning point in Arthur's story arc, leading to further consequences in subsequent episodes.

"Last Rites" explores themes of ambition, manipulation, and the corrupting influence of power. It also delves into the backstories of key characters, adding depth and complexity to the overarching narrative of the season. The episode contributes to the ongoing storyline of the Dark One and the struggle between light and darkness within the characters and within the town of Storybrooke.