We would tell fans of The Vampire Diaries to prepare for some intense, bloody action in the next few episodes, but you guys already know that. That’d be like us telling you, hey, the sky’s blue. Obvious statement is obvious.

While watching the first two episodes of season three, we couldn’t help but notice that the show felt a little different. In a good way. It seemed like everything was slowed down a bit and—gasp!—the characters were attempting to have a little fun after last season’s nonstop drama and deathfest. Still, nothin’ gold can stay…and no one can stay happy in Mystic Falls for long.

We recently chatted with the lovely Nina Dobrev about the show’s new tone for season three, Elena coming to terms with Stefan’s (Paul Wesley) dark side and why she has such a strong connection with Damon (Ian Somerhalder)…

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