When The Vampires Diaries concluded its November 19 episode, Damon was thwarted, Stefan was heartbroken and Elena was stalked by a shadowy figure.

What will happen next to each of these character? Fans will have until January 14 to debate that question in our Vampire Diaries forum, as The CW won't air new episodes until that date.

Fortunately, in a recent interview, producer Julie Plec gave TV Guide Magazine a few hints of what's to come. Warning, a few show spoilers are ahead...

On the next new episode: Our first episode back is a very Damon and Elena-centric story. The two of them go off on a little adventure and bond in a way she didn’t think they were capable of... Also, Gina Torres guest stars as a witch that Damon goes to visit.

On a likely love triangle: As we go through the rest of the season, [Damon is] going to get to know Elena better and better. And can Elena and Stefan’s relationship survive her learning the truth about Katherine? Damon never lied to her and didn’t’ have sex with her. At least not yet.

(TV Fanatic note: WHOA!!!)

On the mystery vampire: Who he is and what he wants is our next big step. We’ll also learn whether the tomb can be happened and what would happen if he does.

Among other topics Plec teased and previewed:

• Alaric will continue to act as a father figure for Jeremy;
• Bonnie will become "very powerful;"
• Viewers will eventually discover who turned Logan into a vampire.

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