The Downward Spiral
After shutting off her humanity following the death of her mother, Caroline gives her friends an unexpected ultimatum. Not knowing how to handle the new Caroline, Stefan's attempt to intervene sets off a dangerous chain of events, leaving him and Elena in a race against the clock. Meanwhile, after seeking answers from Kai (recurring guest star Chris Wood) about the prison world, Damon's world is turned upside down when he learns some devastating news about his mother, Lily (recurring guest star Annie Wersching – 24). Elsewhere, Enzo finds himself becoming increasingly intrigued by Sarah Salvatore (recurring guest star Tristan Mays), and Bonnie begins to struggle with the effects of being back in the real world.