Over the years, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. has grown from an Avengers spinoff to its own unique part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And while recognition from the movies seems more and more like a pipe dreamS.H.I.E.L.D. has proven it can stand on its own, though it already looks as if it and the upcoming Inhumans miniseries will have a few things in common.

Meanwhile, the show is charging ahead with its most audacious plot to date. Following a season that introduced LMDs and at least two Ghost Riders into the MCU, S.H.I.E.L.D. took its Framework narrative to a new level when it dropped its biggest cliffhanger yet. With the majority of the characters inside the alternate reality, Hydra looks to reign supreme. In it, a number of familiar faces will show up, including some past cast members. Most notable among them: Brett Dalton's Agent Grant Ward.

With the show's return just a few weeks away, ABC has released new photos from the upcoming episode 'What If' that show Ward, Daisy, and rich Fitz inside the new world. Take a look in the gallery below:

[vn_gallery name="Agents of SHIELD What If… Images" id="927435"]

Meanwhile, a brief synopsis for the upcoming episode was released. While it keeps the info light, it does provide one tantalizing clue.

"Hail the New World Order! Daisy and Simmons uncover secrets and lies in a world gone mad. With Hydra in control, they are our only hope to save everyone."

Considering Simmons' grave was shown during the cliffhanger in the last episode, many have wondered what happened to the real life version of her that went into the Framework. Thanks to the synopsis, it looks as if she may be alive and well, something we speculated would happen a few weeks back. Her semi-ghost status may prove to be a valuable asset as she and her partner work to free everyone from the Framework, especially as Daisy looks to be plenty busy with official Hydra business.

Aside from Ward, there are a number of past characters we'd love to see pop back up inside the Framework. Meanwhile, the show had some fun recently by reimagining their posters for past seasons inside the new reality. We'll continue to speculate as to all the changes and nods to longtime viewers that will be seen when the series returns. In the meantime, stay tuned for any news that emerges regarding the show and its future.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. returns with 'What If...' on April 4 @10pm on ABC.

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Source: ABC