Soldato
agreed. it was quite clear from the tone, or rather the attempted tone what was meant. the next challenge for the 'group' will be from within.
I'm of the same view, I suspect season 9 will be all about the groups internal battles following Ricks decision to spare Negan. While Maggie, Daryl and bizarrely Jesus are all baying for blood, Rick has decided to quell his bloodlust after reading Carl's letter. I suspect we will be in the position where Rick is actually protecting Negan from the other members. My guess would be that at some point Carol will do whatever needs to be done to end the spat.
The whole show needs to widen it's narrative now to give us a clue of what might be going on in the wider world, is the infection world-wide or contained? That said, the early seasons where we knew next to nothing were far better in most respects. I'm sure we will have yet another group of evermore deranged baddies to defeat, but the formula is wearing a bit thin now. Apparently, Lauren Cohan (Maggie) has re-signed her contract even though she is now doing other stuff on the side.
Not read the books, so I have no idea how far away or close the TV series is by comparison or where the story is going.