The Vampire Diaries returns January 5.

We've already posted the official synopsis for the first episode of 2012, "The New Deal," but a couple of new teasers have emerged that will surely get people talking as we gear up for the show's return this winter.

According to E! Online ...

• An "epic kiss" (gulp) will be happening very soon. Epic.
• A main character we know and love is leaving Mystic Falls, thanks (indirectly) to Damon.

Theories on who the kiss involves, and who leaves? Do they leave and come back? What's Damon's role in that plot line? So much to discuss, and so many possible theories for a show where anything's possible.

Share your predictions and comments below!

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.