Chapter 1
2011
Emerson Booth and his best friend Justin Anderson walked through a mall in Boston, Massachusetts.
"I don't know Emerson," Justin said. "What if we get caught?"
"You ask that every time Justin," Emerson said. "Have we ever been caught?"
"No," Justin replied.
Emerson and Justin walked up to a videogame store.
"You distract, and I will take," Emerson said.
"Why do I always have to distract?" Justin asked.
"You want to be the one to steal?" Emerson asked.
"Why can't I?" Justin asked.
"You're really bad at it," Emerson replied. "Last time, you almost got us caught."
"We won't get caught," Justin said.
The Present
Emerson walked down a sidewalk in Storybrooke. As he walked, he came upon Mr. Gold's Pawnshop. He could not help but walk inside. Once inside, he was amazed at what he saw.
"Hello?" Emerson asked.
"Hello Dearie," a voice said.
Emerson turned around the see Mr. Gold.
"Oh you," Emerson said. "I didn't realize you were Mr. Gold."
"What can I do for you Mr. Booth?" Mr. Gold asked.
"Nothing," Emerson said. "No offense, but you don't have a great reputation in this town and I've been advised to stay away from you. Goodbye."
Emerson turned around to leave, but Mr. Gold was right there.
"I think you'll want to stay for just a little bit," Mr. Gold said. "It is your birthday, and what's a birthday without a present?"
"How did you know it was my birthday?" Emerson asked.
"Lucky guess," Mr. Gold replied.
Mr. Gold led Emerson into the back room and presented him with an old book.
"Happy birthday Mr. Booth," Mr. Gold said.
"A book of magic spells?" Emerson asked taking the book.
"Of course," Mr. Gold replied. "You're coming into your powers."
"My powers?" Emerson asked.
"You're a sorcerer," Mr. Gold replied.
"Come again?" Emerson asked.
"I have things I have to take care of," Mr. Gold said. "Don't let the door hit you on the way out Dearie."