So far they’re just like the Wolves, aren’t they? Killing everyone is their only aim and favourite pastime. Except there’s something about their boss dude, who calls himself the Pope, nonetheless, who “marks” people. Now what does he want to do with those good people he “marks”? Sounds like he just wants to kill them, and kill all their friends and family too whilst his team is at it? Why? The Wolves were spouting some bullshit about everyone’s meant to die now, not try to pretend to live like before. These guys seem to be just as nuts.

 

They look like they’re military for sure. Definitely a different league of fighting skills from our people’s. Very worrisome.

I can’t say I’m intrigued though - more like rolling my eyes “villain fatigued” as @Stealth called it. Can’t we just have five minutes peace on this damn show without new enemies? I could very happily just watch entire episodes of our characters having heart to hearts in box cars and in the woods looking for Connie. I don’t even need zombie extras.

 

The mystery is equalized, because the Reapers aren't in the comics. So I guess right now its anyone's guess. . Basically this entire arc is TV show original material. Maggie never left Hilltop in the comics. Another difference is that Hershel is cuter on the show.

 

I agree that these reapers are military/paramilitary background. Additionally, if the leader is called ''Pope'', could this be a 'religious/cultic' hint? That single reaper blowing up himself means he did not want to be captured or what? If he wanted, I suppose he could have taken down a few people around him if he did not show off the pulled out grenade pin. Is he stupid?

Anyway, Elijah could be a former reaper. I am not sure if it is coincidental but Elijah dressed, in a way, similar to a folklore reaper (ie hood, mask, death sickle weapon). He could be a run away from this group. And, he seems to have military training too as he knew using his hand+ position of the sun to judge the time of the day. Then, when he removed his mask per Kelly's asking (if he is okay), he's obviously shaken. This does not match up well with him fighting bravely the whisperers. So, maybe, he knew how these reapers would treat a defector? And he was scared to be captured?

My theory has a weakness:- Maggie seems to know nothing of these reapers. If Elijah was a former member, he should have told Maggie something.

Lastly, when the group reached Alexandria, I saw there is (at least) another one who's dressed like Elijah (with a hood and mask).

Last lastly, I think someone suggested Elijah might be interested in Maggie? I think not, I think he will be set up with Kelly.

 

It feels like these are bridge villains. They'll use them between now and the last season, but I don't see them lasting too long in Season 11. At least after the Governor we had a little break before the Hunters/Sanctuary group were brought in. There was a lead up to it, and then the horror of what was going on.

There was enough story to tell I think in these episodes without bringing in a new gang.

 

My biggest complaint about last season was when they had that insane and annoying Virgil character find Connie. Not only did I want him off the show, but it just adds to the frustration of her story.

 

The religious cult angle is a real possibilty. The show hasn't gone that route yet either.

 

Pope!!?? Animal Kingdom crossover??