I did not care for this week's episode of The Vampire Diaries. At all. Find out why it my scathing review of "Ghost World."

However, the show knows the way to this fan's heart, as I have the utmost faith next Thursday's "Ordinary People" will redeem my affection for the series, thanks to one word and two syllables: flashback.

Through Alaric's discovery of ancient symbols, combined with the return of an angry Rebekah - who will go at it with Elena - we'll learn more than ever about the Original family via a focus on its origins. This will include the introduction of Klaus' mother. Excited yet? Watch the official CW preview:

Also on tap for next week? Stefan and Damon will be surprised by an "unlikely ally," according to the network tease. Who will it be? I'm calling it now: Mikael.

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