Ep 1. The Calm

As the third season of Arrow begins, viewers find themselves arriving in a vastly different landscape. Starling City is recovering from the devastating events of last season, which saw the Arrow, also known as Oliver Queen, thwart his nemesis Slade Wilson's plan to destroy the city. Oliver has hung up his hood and is no longer the vigilante hero that we've come to know. But when a new menace arrives in town and begins targeting him specifically, Oliver must come out of retirement and once again don his Arrow outfit to stop this new threat.

The episode, titled "The Calm," begins with Oliver enjoying some much-needed rest and relaxation with Felicity Smoak, his closest ally, and friend. But it's not long before their peace is disrupted by the news of a new criminal enterprise moving into Starling City. This group is working under the name of Vertigo, and their potent drug is causing chaos on the streets.

As Oliver considers his options, Roy Harper (who is training to become the Red Arrow) brings a lead on the Vertigo-drug operation that Oliver previously shut down. While both Roy and Oliver are certain it's the same gang, they are surprised to discover that it isn't. This leads them to discover that there has been a hostile takeover of the drug business in Starling City.

Meanwhile, Laurel is still grieving over the loss of her sister, Sara. She's drinking heavily and is dealing with nightmares and flashbacks of her sister's death. Quentin Lance, her father, is likewise at a low point in his life and has been relegated to parking-lot duty for the SCPD.

As Oliver begins a new mission, he finds a glimmer of hope for the future of the city in newly-elected Mayor, Alderman Blood. Blood has some ambitious plans for the city. He's also someone who Oliver has grown to trust; however, it remains to be seen if his trust is misplaced.

During Oliver's investigation into the drug operation, we're introduced to a mystery woman who appears to be someone from his past. But we are given no insight into who she may be or what her motives are. The episode also introduces new villains in the form of a pair of assassins named Maseo and Tatsu, who appear to be out for blood.

"The Calm" sets up the new season well, introducing new characters and returning favorites while also hinting that the citizens of Starling City are in for a bumpy ride. The episode sets the stage for what promises to be another gripping season of Arrow.