Romance is also very common. Given the nature of the two characters, many fanfictions focus on the development of a romantic relationship between Emma and Mr Gold. It might start from their initial animosity and gradually turn into love. For example, in some stories, they are forced to work together on a task in Storybrooke and that's where the romantic feelings start to grow. This is often explored through detailed descriptions of their interactions and internal thoughts.
One common theme is redemption. Mr Gold is a complex character and often fanfictions explore his journey towards redemption, especially in relation to his relationship with Emma.
Power dynamics is another theme. Emma has her own powers as the Savior and Mr Gold has his magic. Fanfictions often play with how these powers interact between them. Sometimes it's a source of conflict, like when they have different ideas on how to use their powers to solve a problem in the town. Other times, it can be a way for them to understand and bond with each other more deeply.
Power and its use is another theme. Emma's light magic and Regina's dark magic can be a source of conflict or cooperation. Some fanfictions might show them learning to combine their powers in a balanced way to protect their town and the people they care about.
Often, there could be themes related to magic and fantasy. Since 'Once upon a time' is often associated with such elements. Emma might be depicted as having some special powers even as a baby, and the fanfiction could explore how she discovers and controls these powers as she grows. It could also involve themes of friendship, as she meets different people who become important to her throughout her life.
One popular theme is their lost love. Since they had a complicated relationship in the show, fanfics often explore what could have been if things had gone differently. Another theme is redemption for Neal. Fans like to write about him making up for his past mistakes in relation to Emma.
A lot of Neal and Emma fanfictions also deal with the theme of second chances. Neal coming back into Emma's life can be seen as a second chance for their relationship. These stories might explore how they make the most of this second opportunity, dealing with past issues and looking forward to a future together. Some might also explore the theme of sacrifice, where one of them has to sacrifice something for the other or for their relationship.
One common theme is their mother - daughter relationship. Since Snow is Emma's mother in the show, many fanfictions explore their bond, how they grow closer, or deal with the challenges of their relationship.
You can try fanfiction.net. It has a large collection of fanfictions including those about Emma and Mr Gold. Just use the search bar on the site and type in relevant keywords.
Love, in a non - romantic sense, is a big theme too. It's the love that comes from a deep connection, like Henry always believing in Emma no matter what. Fanfictions expand on this, showing how this love can overcome all kinds of difficulties. They might face villains or difficult situations, but their love for each other always prevails, making for some very emotional and engaging stories.
One popular theme is Emma's journey of self - discovery. In many fanfictions, she embarks on a path to understand her true self, her powers, and her place in the story's world. Another theme is her relationships, like her romantic relationships which are often explored in great detail. There can also be themes related to family, as she discovers more about her family ties and how they shape her.
One common theme is Roland's adventures. Writers often explore new quests or battles that Roland could be involved in, expanding on the world he exists in. Another theme is his relationships, whether it's with his comrades or potential love interests.
One common theme is the huntsman's loyalty. It's often explored whether he stays loyal to the Evil Queen or if he starts to side with the heroes. Another theme is his past and how it shapes his actions in the fanfiction world. For example, his training as a huntsman and how that affects his relationships.