Aw man I just lost my post! Stinkin phones. Ok bare bones – someone remind me, do we know of any of the Dark Ones ever actually trying to kill themselves? I know the last pretty much set Rumple up to kill him but that’s not exactly the same as plunging the dagger into your own heart. I’m thinking that’s the key if Emma does try to sacrifice herself. Or what happens if the product of true love – the epitome of white magic, if you will – attempts it.
As far as Rumbelle goes, I get the dissenting opinions, but I think if you strip my last comment to simply Rumple has to truly want to redeem himself and be prepared to give up his power for Belle – and I do think he can get there eventually – then there will be hope for Rumbelle