Through nine episodes, we've given The Vampire Diaries Season 4 a scarcely passing grade.

Will the show pick up in 2013? Based on a few recent reports, here's an idea of what fans can look forward to in the new year: a rekindled romance, a burgeoning feud and the return of a certain mysterious character...

A future for Jonnie? Asked about a glance exchanged between Jeremy and Bonnie on the midseason finale, Julie Plec teased to TV Guide: “There was love there and maybe just a glimpse of hope for something more.”

Will we ever see Katherine again? It seems very likely, also according to Plec, this time via TV Line's Michael Ausiello: “That elusive vixen is still somehow lurking in the shadows, but keeping herself well hidden… Given Klaus’ continued presence in Mystic Falls, we shall see if we’ll be able to get her back into town.”

The next major feud will be... Forget Klaus versus Tyler. Well, don't. Those two will most certainly be going at it, but the Original will also be setting his sights on Professor Shane, E! Online scoops, considering that teacher came up with the plan to murder his 12 hybrids.

Of course, the major question on our mind heading into new episodes remains: WHY did Shane mastermind this mass killing?

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