I agree with the theories--I can see "The Darkness" becoming an actual character like the smoke monster on LOST. The darkness is what everyone has been battling for all four seasons, so it would be only fitting to have the darkness turn into an actual character. However, that would mean that OUAT would be coming to a close, because the writers couldn't go anywhere else really with that. I think I read somewhere that Eddy and Adam see it having eight seasons, which is kind of a lot, but that would mean that they have a plan.
Regarding the end of the first episode, if anyone had been up-to-date with all of the interviews, they would've seen it coming. I can recall someone saying in an interview that Emma would seek revenge on those she loves. And, we've already seen her as the Dark One in that preview, so it was no shock. Overall, though, it was good.
They have
so much to get into these first few episodes; that's why it feels really packed to me. They have to focus on Belle and Rumple, Regina's new role as the savior, Zelena's baby, Hook dealing with Emma, Snow and Charming dealing with Emma, Arthur and Guinevere and their backstories, and so much more--ON TOP OF the flashbacks to Camelot. If you ask me, it's a lot, but the writers have been doing a good job.
I never thought I'd say this, but I love Regina now. Lana does such a good job at playing her, too! I really like that she's the savior now and that she was able to redeem herself from a relentless, vengeful, evil person. And, after all that, she was still able to find happiness. I occasionally find myself feeling like her throughout the day.