1. Malcolm Merlyn's Return
I'm pretty sure no-one thought Merlyn was actually dead so it wouldn't have come as a complete surprise to see him standing with Moria at the episode's conclusion. I didn't think it would be quite so soon, however, as so much is being dealt with at the moment. We have Brother Blood working his own agenda, the League of Assassins popping in and out and particle accelerators being built so it didn't seem to me Arrow would play the Merlyn card so relatively soon into the season. That being said, it was a very pleasant surprise as Merlyn was one of the best aspects from last year. What was equally surprising though was the revelation Thea is Merlyn's daughter. I'm sure some people will think its drama for the sake of drama, but I actually like this twist. It's ironic since Thea herself suspected Moria had been sleeping with Merlyn, only she thought it was after Moria married Walter rather than many years before. It will also give Thea a good character struggle and development once the secret comes out. I imagine she'll have a hard time coming to terms with being the daughter of a mass murderer rather than a Queen and I don't know how Oliver will even take it, but it should be a nice moment and awkward family dinner once it is revealed.