The Journey to Elena and Damon's Relationship in The Vampire Diaries
The question of when Elena and Damon get together in The Vampire Diaries is a popular one among fans. However, the answer requires a more nuanced exploration of the characters and their evolving relationship. Season 4 marks a definitive turning point, but their connection begins to develop much earlier. This article will delve into the key moments and steps that brought them together.
Season 1: The Foundation
The relationship between Elena Gilbert and Damon Salvatore can be traced back to Season 1, where subtle moments laid the groundwork for their eventual union. In the early episodes, Damon is consumed with his love for Katherine, and Elena and her strange, mysterious companion, Stefan, enter his life.
Deception and the First Softening: In early episodes, Damon deceives Elena and Stefan into believing they are helping him unlock the tomb where Katherine's spirit was supposed to be. However, during the attempt, Elena removes her vervain necklace and speaks to Damon, showing a vulnerability that he recognizes. Although Elena doesn't realize it at the time, this moment marks the first softening in her treatment of him.
Sympathy for the Broken: Damon's love for Katherine is deeply rooted, and once it is revealed that she is not in the tomb, he is devastated. Elena, known for her ability to see the good in people and her sympathy, comes to Damon to console him, hugging him to ease his pain. This act, though seemingly small, marks the beginning of a shift in her feelings towards him.
The Milestones Leading to Their Union
Over time, Elena's affection for Damon grows, culminating in the non-linear and complex relationship we see in Season 4.
Rescue and Dance: When Stephen is taken by the tomb vampires, Elena and Damon join forces to rescue him. Meanwhile, during a beauty pageant, Damon dances with Elena, showing her he can keep up with her, and Stefan, Elena's love interest, steps in to save her from embarrassment. These moments set the stage for their growing bond.
The Heartbreaks: Catherine's betrayal, coupled with Elena's own heartbreak from losing Stephen, creates an opportunity for Elena to see Damon in a new light. Damon's protection of her and his honesty about the Gilbert ring further solidify her feelings for him. In a later episode, when Elena and Damon go to see Isobel's intern, Damon risks his life to save Elena from an arrow. These selfless acts magnify Elena's feelings for him.
Season 4: The Climax
The Vampire Diaries Season 4 officially marks the beginning of Elena and Damon's romantic relationship. It is during this season that their connection becomes more defined, culminating in a passionate kiss in the episode titled "The Ice King."
Deepening Relations: In Season 4, Elena faces a crucial decision: while she remains with her brother, she becomes a vampire by drinking Damon's blood. Their bond deepens as Damon knows that giving Stephen's gift back would be excruciatingly painful for him. This final act of selflessness cements their romantic relationship.
The Evolution of their Love: Throughout the series, the relationship between Elena and Damon evolves from a fragile alliance to a deep and complex romantic one. It's a testament to the series' ability to explore nuanced character development and the intricacies of love and loss.
Conclusion
The journey to Elena and Damon's relationship in The Vampire Diaries is a thrilling and emotional one. From the earliest moments of Season 1 when their paths first crossed, to the passionate moments of Season 4, their love story is a testament to the series' ability to craft a compelling narrative of romance and heartache.