Damon (Ian Somerhalder) and Elena (Nina Dobrev) already had one big problem in the form of Silas (Paul Wesley).

Now it seems they have two.

In last week’s episode, Elena took a break from Whitmore to go back to Mystic Falls and find Stefan. Fortunately, Sherriff Forbes (Marguerite MacIntyre) was able to recover the safe that Stefan was in. Caroline’s mom was sure Stefan would be hungry but none of the three were sure of what they would find when they looked inside the safe. When they opened it up there was someone inside. However, it wasn’t Stefan. Instead, it was a man who had half of his neck missing.

It seems, my worst fears were realized. As the promo for the episode says, “the Ripper is back.”

Now, we have to ask ourselves—was this Silas’ (also played by Wesley) plan all along? Stefan’s current condition does provide him with a few advantages.

First, it allows Stefan to suffer long after he escapes from the bottom of the lake. He’s definitely not his best self when he’s the ripper and it usually takes a toll on him (and anyone he runs into).

Secondly, it keeps Damon and Elena occupied. While they are busy trying to keep Damon’s brother from killing people, Silas has more than enough time to orchestrate whatever master plan he has cooked up.

Thirdly, people are dying at the hands of Stefan. On some level I think Silas enjoys that.

You can view the episode promo here.

“The Vampire Diaries” airs on Thursdays at 8/7c on The CW.

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