Oliver was shocked at what Ra's Al-ghul said. He hadn't expected him to spare him or Diggs, but had to try to save Diggs anyway. Instead this man, the leader of the League of assasins, was asking Oliver Queen to take his place. Admittedly this explained a lot. Ras Al-ghul spoke of being alive for centuries, but clearly there were others. Evidently it was a title. A way to inspire fear in friends and enemies alike. Oliver understood, it was the same reason Diggs wore a uniform in the army, why Laurel took on the mantle of "Canary."
.
Ras Al-ghul: You hesitate, understandable. I'm willing to give you a little time to consider. But there is something you must do. Malcolm Merlyn has challenged me to trial by combat, I would prefer you offer to take my place in this. Not out of fear for myself mind you, but a way for you to show me devotion. And for me to show you the League's justice. Every apprentice is told two things. One, they will kill in the service of the League. Two, you will die in the service of the League. If you join us, come with no delusions about that.
Oliver: And if I refuse?
Ras Al-ghul: Then I shall fight him myself. And you can walk away from this. However, I will execute John Diggle for his part in the assault on the League.
Oliver: He is a good man, he was just following my orders.
Ras Al-ghul: Yes, he's very loyal to you, will you not show him the same loyalty?
Oliver: If I do this, I will either kill Malcolm Merlyn, or I will die in the quest. If it's the second one, will you still pardom Diggs for his crimes against the league?
Ras Al-ghul: Yes. It occurs to me you may purposefully let the magician kill you, rather than take his life. If that happens, I will be forced to let him go, he will be free to kill more innocents. You might want to consider that as you fight him.
Oliver: I accept the challenge.
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Oliver Queen and Malcolm Merlyn were brought to the combat area. John Diggs was also brought forth to witness. Diggs knew Oliver was doing this for him, to save his life. But even Diggs, Oliver's brother in arms, didn't know what Oliver would do. Merlyn and Oliver fought. It was brutal, but Oliver seemed to be winning. Before he could deliver the death blow Merlyn wimpered, begged for his life. Seeing a pitiful man like this Oliver hesitated. Then he thought about the undertaking. How many innocent men, women, children, had died begging for their lives. How many asked in vain "Why is this happening to me" and died before they got an answer. Oliver knew the better question was, how many other innocents would die like this if Merlyn lived. Oliver took his sword and chopped Malcolm Merlyn's head off. Diggs seemed sad. Merlyn got what he deserved, he was only sorry that Oliver had to live with more guilt now. But Oliver didn't feel guilt. He felt relieved, even proud of himself. A little scared of what he was becoming. Oliver looked at Ras Al-ghul. He seemed to be smiling, as best Oliver could tell. Oliver was glad that someone was proud of his actions.