Peter MacNicol will offer Asgardian wisdom about that crazy Kree stone in an upcoming episode of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3.

MacNicol will return to Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3 as Professor Elliot Randolph, a role he originated early in the show’s first season.

In the episode, titled “The Well,” Randolph appeared at first to be a run-of-the-mill, mildly lecherous history professor. But MacNicol’s role was soon revealed to be that of an Asgardian warrior (albeit a run-of-the-mill Asgardian warrior) who chose a long life on Earth over his mundane existence in the godly realm.

In “The Well,” Randolph was a key part of the mystery surrounding an Asgardian berserker staff, which caused significant anger-issues for Agent May and then-Agent Ward. For his return in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3, episode 2, the professor will provide Coulson’s team with information on another dangerous relic – the Kree Monolith that swallowed Agent Simmons in the final moments of season 2.

Of the episode, titled “Purpose in the Machine,” ABC says that “The ancient secrets of the Monolith are revealed” when “Fitz and the team enlist the aid of an Asgardian to unlock the secrets of the ancient monolith that swallowed Simmons.”

Meanwhile, “Agent May is at a crossroads in her personal and professional life.”

In addition to Peter MacNicol, Blair Underwood will reprise his role as Dr. Andrew Garner – May’s current love, and ex-husband. James Hong, an accomplished voice actor, will appear as William May, another piece of the puzzle that makes up the enigmatic Melinda.

Related: New characters, new powers debut in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3 premiere photos

As if that weren’t enough to absorb, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3, episode 2 has also cast several English lords. Alex Hyde-White will play “Lord Thornally,” Daniel J. Wolfe will play “Lord Manzini,” and Piers Stubbs will appear as a “younger lord.”

Could the Kree Monolith have sent Simmons traveling through time? Will Randolph actually be able to help, or will he be the barer of bad news? What does this fascinating potpourri of casting mean for the episode – and for the future of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3?

Only time will tell, and we can’t wait to find out.

The Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. season 3 premiere, “Laws of Nature,” airs Sept. 29 at 9:00 p.m. on ABC.