As the fifth season opens, Elena, after a passionate summer with Damon, heads to college nearby with Caroline as her roommate. Plus, a terrifying appearance by Silas (PAUL WESLEY).

A fellow Whitmore student named Jesse (KENDRICK SAMPSON) gives Elena some intriguing information about Professor Wes Maxfield (RICK COSNETT). Damon asks for help finding Stefan.

Damon and Elena try to help Stefan through a confusing time, which ends up taking Elena on an emotional journey. Caroline makes an effort to know Jesse (KENDRICK SAMPSON) better.

Damon and Elena are skeptical of Silas's new goal; Tessa realizes she was outsmarted by Silas; after discovering a new consequence of becoming human, Katherine decides she needs a new place to stay; Bonnie is impressed with Jeremy.

Damon is trapped by Dr. Wes, and realizes scary things about his past.

Back to Katherine's early life 1490, Nadia helps her mom with a fighting plan.

Damon tries to get back together with Elena, however, Katherine has a plan and attempts to take Elena's body permanently. Tyler is upset with Caroline and Matt is used by Katherine. Enzo finds Damon and they decide to become a team again.

Damon tries to figure out how to make a disturbing confession to Elena.

Elena and Stefan start having dreams about an alternate version of their lives; The Travelers move in on Mystic Falls; Matt has a frightening encounter on the Other Side.

Enzo holds Elena, Stefan and Bonnie hostage to uncover the truth about the love of his life. Markos performs a ritual to undo witch's magic.

Damon and Caroline suspect Stefan and Elena of keeping a secret while they hide from the travelers, unaware of the dead man out for revenge. Meanwhile Matt, Jeremy and Bonnie help Tyler get rid of Julian.

Damon's plan causes a huge explosion in Mystic Falls, and everyone is caught up in the confusion, leaving a trail of heroism, sacrifice, relief and despair.