I read about Elena's turning happening in the books, so I've been waiting for ages for Elena to turn (and everything that happens after this sounds like so much fun!). Predicted or not, it was still well done acted & well filmed, good work to everyone.
I can't remember enjoying this much character exploration in an episode all season. The brothers, the originals, Forwood, frikin Evilaric, so much to say I wouldn't know where to begin!! so many questions that are still needed, but first the props
1) Mad props to Matt Davis for making Valaric the smoothest smooth criminal since Klaus! That's how you make a great villain when they can take the simplest of concepts "let the humans do their jobs freely" and reek total chaos on our heroes with it! At a few points I caught myself almost hoping he'd win.
2) Best. Damon. Episode. Since. Season. One. Period.
3) I don't condone what Bonnie did, but I understand, either let Klaus live or let the entire main cast die. Bonnie saved the series! Way to be useful and not boring at the same time for once. Mad Props!
I'm glad they used the time to compare and contrast how the brothers each love Elena in their own ways, and it reminded me why I'm still Team Stelena. Though he can sometimes come off as being weak, I get it, but I appreciate that Stefan is the one who is willing to respect Elena's decisions and treat her like an adult even if he doesn't like her decisions. Damon is a hot, fast, and heavy affair certainly overflowing with passion; sometimes it's the best thing for Elena to be challenged but, I still feel like he doesn't appreciate that she has a mind of her own.