Moira Queen stood in the dimly lit study, her hands clasped tightly as she gazed out the window overlooking Starling City. The faint hum of distant traffic filled the silence, but her mind raced with louder thoughts. She had just hung up the phone after finalizing an agreement with Malcolm Merlyn, a deal that left a sour taste in her mouth. But sacrifices had to be made—her family's survival depended on it. Straightening her shoulders, she forced herself to appear composed, the mask she wore so often.