On January 17, The Vampire Diaries will take part in an "After School Special."

What can fans expect from the first episode of 2013? Only a bombshell for Elena, a surprise for Bonnie and some serious training for Jeremy.

Indeed, The CW has released the official episode synopsis for the first Vampire Diaries Season 4 installment of the new year and you can start getting excited over it now:

Appearing unexpectedly at Mystic Falls High, Rebekah wastes no time trying to force Stefan, Elena and Caroline to answer her questions about the search for a cure, leading to a bombshell piece of information from Elena. 

When Bonnie’s father, Rudy Owens, accepts the role of Interim Mayor, he makes it a priority to protect his daughter, who isn’t at all comfortable with the role he suddenly wants to play in her life.  Professor Shane continues to encourage Bonnie to believe in her powers, but he soon finds himself in danger when he reveals too much to the wrong person. 

Later, Caroline does her best to comfort Tyler after a violent confrontation.  Meanwhile, at the lake house, Damon and Matt train Jeremy, trying to raise his game as a hunter, but Klaus is impatient with their progress and intervenes to speed up the process. 

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.