CLEVELAND, Ohio – If you had to pinpoint the most thrilling moment from Robert Kirkman’s comic book, most people would say the “All Out War” storyline that finds Rick and Negan going head to head.

Thus, fans disappointed with the first half of Season 7 have reason to be optimistic. The “All Out War” storyline is set to arrive soon, meaning the next eight episodes of AMC’s “The Walking Dead” will be tension-filled, as Rick and company prepare for battle.

Aside from Rick getting his mojo back, here are some things to expect when “The Walking Dead” returns on Feb. 12.

[Potential SPOILERS ahead]

Dwight’s transformation

“The Walking Dead” has done a solid job showing the turmoil lurking inside Dwight. He’s basically the lackey to a guy that stole his wife. That can’t be good for anyone’s psyche. However, if the show follows the comic book storyline (which appears to be doing) Dwight will switch sides, reaching out to Rick and offering his services in taking down Negan. What’s interesting is how Rick and, more importantly, Daryl will react to this, given the pain Dwight has caused the group (RIP Denise).

Maggie becomes a leader

As you can already tell from his cowardice, Gregory won’t be willing to commit the Hilltop to a war against the Saviors. He just doesn’t have it in him. But Maggie does. Her emergence as a leader at the community will reach its peak as they roll into a battle against Negan and his followers. It will also give Glenn’s death some meaning…finally!

Shiva in action

Expect Ezekiel to be very hesitant to join the war as well. However, the Alexandria Safe-Zone wouldn’t stand a chance against the Saviors without the Kingdom’s help. And Richard knows it. Thus, Ezekiel will come around and so will his pet tiger, Shiva. In the comic book, Shiva takes out a few Saviors. It will be interesting to see when and how the show utilizes CGI.

Jesus saves

Fans wishing to see more of popular comic book character Jesus will get their chance during the second half of Season 7. Jesus is integral in bringing the Hilltop, Kingdom and Safe-Zone together and a key fighter in the actual war. Another detail that will be revealed about Jesus in the coming episodes is the fact he’s gay, something actor Tom Payne has already confirmed in interviews.

More romance

The show’s willingness to put Rick and Michonne in a relationship means there will be some changes in relationship dynamics from the comic book. In Robert Kirkman’s origin story, Michonne and Ezekiel engage in a romance. But that storyline fits Carol more now. She’s been bonding with both Ezekiel and Morgan. We should also see Carl and Enid get closer and, depending on his fate, Eugene could finally get the connection with Rosita that he’s long desired.

Even more death

Even with a storyline titled “All Out War” about to invade the series, it would be impossible for the show to do something more drastic than killing Abraham and Glenn in the Season 7 premiere. But more bodies will fall even before the war gets going. There are rumors that Sasha will bite the dust in the Season 7 finale, while a few of the Kingdom residents could also die, motivating Ezekiel to join the war.

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