He cycles through the typical excess of doubt, incredulity, and refusal all quite rapidly, and lands upon acceptance even quicker. He did not immediately recognize the Dark One's name and face, and in Storybrooke it has become clear that the associations clustered around 'Rumpelstiltskin' are somewhat more varied and imprecise than those of fact. And yet, here he remains. And here is his target, unlucky and untethered.

"Power," says Rumpelstiltskin, "is a currency with which I deal on regular basis. I realize my reputation has a tendency to - precede me." He smiles, knowing and sharklike.