‘Fear The Walking Dead’ Spoilers: What Is ‘Cobalt’? Theory About The National Guard’s Plan For The Survivors In Episode 5

“Fear the Walking Dead” fans are on the edge of their seats at the end of each new episode, and episode 4 last week was no different. Viewers were horrified as the National Guard forcefully removed Griselda (Patricia Reyes Spindola) and Nick (Frank Dillane) from their home. They said they were getting Griselda and Nick the treatment that they need, but were they telling the truth?

All signs point to “no way” -- especially after Madison (Kim Dickens) witnessed what appeared to be a shoot out at the house in the restricted zone that potentially had survivors. The National Guard seems to be lying to those in the military controlled neighborhood, and keeping the survivors in the dark about what’s happening outside the fences. It’s hard not to have sinister thoughts after episode 4, and it sounds like things will continue to take a turn for the worse in episode 5.

As we previously reported, Sunday night’s episode is titled “Cobalt.” Cobalt is associated with the color blue, and is a metallic element that is “hard” and “silvery-white.” While it doesn’t give any hints as to what might be in store for the characters on “Fear the Walking Dead,” it’s important to note that “Cobalt” was the initial name for the AMC TV spinoff before it was picked up for series.

The synopsis promises that the National Guard’s “plan for the neighborhood” will be revealed and Travis and Madison must make a difficult decision. One theory is that “Cobalt” could be the code name for the National Guard’s top secret plans for anyone who is “sick” or “ill.”

From the brief promo video for episode 5, it looks as if those that need medical attention are rounded up in a fenced-in area inside of a warehouse. The National Guard could simply be keeping an eye on them for fear that they have been infected. It would make sense that they would not want to waste resources like medicine on people that could turn. Another possibility is that they are using the sick to test “cures” or “vaccinations” against the virus.

Liza (Elizabeth Rodriguez) is also featured in the trailer along with Dr. Bethany Exner (Sandrine Holt). The two women are wearing medical clothing and surgical masks, making it appear as if they are working with the sick. However, it’s not clear if they are actually helping.

“I see bite marks,” Dr. Bethany Exner says, pointing at a patient that is off-screen.

“Fear the Walking Dead” episode 5 airs on AMC on Sunday, Sept. 27 at 9 p.m. EDT. What do you think that “Cobalt” is a code name for? Take the poll below: