The first two episodes of Season 8 of "Castle" are expected to focus on the changes in store for costars Richard Castle (Nathan Fillion) and Det. Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) stemming from her promotion to the ranks of captain.

Entitled "XY" and "XX," CarterMatt reports the episodes are meant to be companion pieces "taking a very specific perspective on a series of important events." The website hints that the season premiere is expected to focus more on Castle, while the second delves more deeply into Beckett's ever evolving world.

New series co-show runners Alexi Hawley and Terence Paul Winter have largely billed the new season as a time for change for the show and many of their actions have been in keeping with that new mantra.

Several media outlets have reported "The Neighbors" alum Toks Olagundoye has been cast as Hayley Vargas, a security specialist who could mean huge and powerful changes for Castle and Beckett's relationship.

Given her new role, it stands to reason that Beckett won't have nearly as much time or opportunity to directly work with Castle the way she previously has, which could be right where Hayley walks in.

"The important thing to say about [Rick and Kate] is that the show has always been and will always be about their love affair," Hawley said. "But we're looking to add some drama to it, some spark to it. We're going to have fun. It's going to be emotional at times, it will be romantic. ... It will be everything."

Before accepting the captain's promotion, Beckett also thought long and hard about a run for the New York State Senate and reports are that option may still be on the table somewhere down the line.

"Walking Dead" alum Sunkrish Bala is also set to join the cast this season as tech analyst Vikram Singh.