Will Elena Gilbert's 18th birthday truly be a happy one? Only the residents of Mystic Falls know for sure, but judging from the batch of newly released stills from "The Vampire Diaries"' season three premiere, "The Birthday," we're not breaking out the balloons and noisemakers just yet.
Indeed, these nine new images paint an intriguing picture of Elena's big day. First, we meet new cast member "7th Heaven" alum David Gallagher, who plays a werewolf named Ray Sutton. From an earlier casting announcement, we know he has a heated run-in with Klaus, which is definitely supported by the intimidating (yet also, alarmingly, hot) pose actor Joseph Morgan is striking here. Klaus, you can poke us anytime!
Then there's Caroline, who's pictured with both men in her life: former love Matt and current maybe-something (you saw that make out in the season three trailer, right?) Tyler. I don't know about you, but I'm totally ready to see Caroline and Tyler try their hand at a supernatural romance.
And, of course, there's the birthday girl herself, Elena, flaunting a drapey white party dress, but looking less than festive as she talks with Alaric and Damon on a balcony. What new drama are they discussing? We'll have to wait until the September 15 premiere to find out.
Click on the image above to browse our entire "Vampire Diaries" season three sneak peek gallery!
What do you think of this look at the season premiere? What do you think will happen in "The Birthday." Leave your thoughts and theories in the comments and on Twitter!
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