Vampire Diaries Season 4: 12 To-Die-For Bits From the First Two Episodes

The new season of The Vampire Diaries is almost upon us, and TVLine was lucky enough to screen the first two episodes of Season 4, which premieres Oct. 11 (The CW, 8/7c).

As Elena transitions into becoming a vampire, her emotions are heightened; the new installments might ratchet up yours, as well, as heartstrings are pulled and life remains dangerous in Mystic Falls. To give you a taste — no pun intended! — of what’s to come, here are 12 vaguely spoilery observations about the first two episodes:

More from TVLine

• Dead Boy Detectives Showrunners Talk Potential Sandman Crossovers and Supernatural Easter Eggs

• Walker Sneak Peek: Cassie Teams With Independence's Justin Johnson Cortez on Jackal Case (Exclusive)

• All American Gets Extra Season 6 Episodes, Eyes a Wave of New Cast Members If Renewed (Report)

RELATED | The Vampire Diaries Scores Olympic Star Gabby Douglas for Season 4 Episode

* The way in which Elena remembers one of the memories Damon compelled her to forget is quite visually clever. If the intent was to catch viewers off-guard, well done!

* There is a lot of squabbling-sibling drama, and it’s not all relegated to Damon and Stefan.

* Bonnie’s a bit of a badass in the season opener. But it’ll cost her big time, in a way that’s pretty surprising.

* Let’s just say you don’t need sex to have a sexy (and somewhat disturbing) Damon-and-Elena scene.

* A tender moment between Stefan and Elena manages to thaw even Rebekah’s heart.

VIDEO | Vampire Diaries Sneak Peek: Elena Has a Very Rude, Undead Awakening

* Caroline and Tyler just can’t keep their clothes on.

* Elena’s failure to keep down animal blood provides for some truly gross scenes. It also makes her resort to something that doesn’t make Stefan very happy.

* Mystic Falls’ many dead friends and family – and there are oh so many! – get a sweet tribute.

* Todd Williams’ ruthless new vampire hunter, who makes his entrance in Episode 2, has some impressive tricks up his sleeve. (After you watch, you’ll get what we mean.)

VIDEO | Vampire Diaries Season 4 Trailer Serves Up Sex! Death! Crashes! And Punches!

* Mystic Falls returning resident April (Grace Phipps) needs a hug for many reasons.

* Damon’s still saving a seat at the bar. Sniff.

* Yeah, nothing good is happening here.

Best of TVLine

• 'Missing' Shows, Found! The Latest on Snowpiercer, Severance, '90s Show, Rings of Power, 61st Street and Others

• Summer TV Calendar: Your Guide to 85+ Season and Series Premieres

• Yellowjackets Mysteries: An Up-to-Date List of the Showtime Series' Biggest Questions (and Answers?)

Get more from TVLine.com: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Newsletter