Oliver’s confidence is shaken after being beaten by the Dark Archer and he takes a break from being Arrow. However, when Laurel calls Arrow for help investigating a firefighter’s suspicious death, he reluctantly agrees but his hesitance while fighting almost costs him his life. Meanwhile, Tommy throws a benefit for the firefighters and Thea tries to lift Moira out of her depressive state.

When Oliver and his team destroy Slade's centrifuge, he attacks them as Deathstroke to get what he needs to find a replacement. Meanwhile, Laurel ponders what to do with Slade's information, and Oliver tries to convince Thea to help him protect their finances from Isabel.

With crime at an all time low, Oliver decides to take a break and asks Felicity on a date. However, they're interrupted when a new drug dealer take the name of Count Vertigo and targets the Arrow for death. Meanwhile, Diggle becomes an expectant father and a scientist tries to acquire Queen Consolidated before Oliver can retake his family's business.