The Vampire Diaries (TVD) on The CW has gone through many changes since its 2009 premiere: killing off popular characters; bringing some back to life; turning the female lead into a vampire; and spinning off some of its most popular characters into The Originals. Renewed for a seventh season, TVD faces perhaps its biggest change and challenge, yet.

For six seasons, TVD‘s through line has been the love story between Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev), Stefan Salvatore (Paul Wesley) and his big brother, Damon (Ian Somerhalder). Dobrev departed the series at the end of season six. The show will go on, but how?

The clever hook to TVD‘s love triangle has never been Elena’s love for both brothers, nor their love of her, but Stefan and Damon’s abiding devotion to one another. Now that clever hook may well be TVD‘s saving grace. The rest of the show’s lovely and talented cast doesn’t hurt, either. The Vampire Diaries also stars: Kat Graham, Candice King (née Candice Accola), Zack Roerig, and Matthew Davis. Steven R. McQueen and Michael Trevino exited the show during season six.

The Vampire Diaries season seven premiere, “Day One of Twenty-Two Thousand, Give or Take,” airs Thursday, October 8, 2015 at 8:00pm ET/PT. In an attempt to compel you to watch TVD season 7, episode 1, The CW has released a nearly two-minute clip. Please watch and enjoy, below. After the clip, you’ll find a bonus — the “Run” trailer for season seven of the The Vampire Diaries.

Here’s the episode teaser clip:

Bonus: Here’s the season 7 “Run” trailer:

What do you think of the season seven premiere teaser clip and “Run” trailer? Do you think Caroline and Stefan will abide by this new friends rule? Will you watch The Vampire Diaries season seven, without Nina Dobrev’s Elena (and Katherine and Amara)?