Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 3×16 is a doozy, with surprises and twists galore. Here are a few hints for the dark turns of “Paradise Lost.”

‘S.H.I.E.L.D.’ steps on the gas

In comparison to the breakneck pace of the first half of season 3, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. has been positively leisurely since returning from the winter hiatus. But kiss those moderate days goodbye. With “Paradise Lost,” the series explodes off the running block set up last week, amping up not only the pace, but intensity and danger as well.

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And oh boy, is there danger. If Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 3×16 is any indication, we don’t expect to relax much between now and the middle of May.

May gets to channel her frustration

Poor Agent May suffered another bitter blow in last week’s episode, when Andrew returned to say goodbye. Andrew transformed into Lash, for apparently the last time, and there was nothing May could do but watch, utterly helpless.

In “Paradise Lost,” May is anything but helpless. With the bomb of “Ward’s” return having exploded in S.H.I.E.L.D.’s midst, May is right at the forefront of dangerous plans to bring Malick and his operatives to heel — and goes toe-to-toe with an Inhuman who has confounded S.H.I.E.L.D. since his or her first appearance.

Hive tries on an old face

The teaser for Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 3×16 reveals that Hive may just be sharing a look at his true physical form this week, but that’s not all he’s up to. Much has been teased about the Inhuman inhabiting Ward’s body, and his ability to tap into memories of the corpses he’s worn; this week’s episode finally delivers on that promise.

The fallout from Hive’s warehouse of hosts is brutally effective, and, perhaps it goes without saying, creepy as all hell. Think you’ve seen the worst of Hive’s powers? Think again.

Backstories galore!

“Paradise Lost” offers up three new backstories for three distinct characters (though a little thought connects them neatly.) Gideon Malick, by far the least expected, receives the most attention as his surprisingly relevant and oddly moving history is revealed to the audience.

But fans may be more curious about the other characters who are given depth and backstory in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 3×16. We won’t spoil the revelations, but suffice to say that the information presented has been a long time coming — and make the past just as urgently relevant as the future.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 3×16, “Paradise Lost,” airs Tuesday, April 12 at 9:00 p.m. on ABC.

What are your predictions for ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ 3×16?