I was 11 years old when I killed my first man. I remember the look in his face when the light went out behind his eyes. Such a sudden change, almost imperceptible, between life and death. And I felt ashamed. I had stolen from that man the most precious gift of all - life. But I also felt something else - pride, because I had taken up arms against someone who sought to do ill against my family. And I realized what I had done was necessary. You see... I have replaced evil with death. And that... is what the league exists to do. And I have killed several thousand more men since then. And the world is better for it.

I can see now, you do not require a culling to solidify your reign. You have broken your rival, Al Sah-Him. Something I wasn't able to do as an heir. Spilling her blood will only serve as gluttony. Now, perhaps... her blood could be of another purpose. As a means to unite our families. You as husband... and you as wife.

You know, many lifetimes ago, I loved a woman immeasurably. And she loved me. And we had a son and then a daughter. And for many years, I felt I was the most fortunate man in the world. My life was bliss. And one night, a man came to my door and he gave me a horrible choice - to leave without saying a word to them, or to stand and watch them tortured and then killed. And I left without a farewell. And to spare them pain, I endured an agony worse than death.

If there's one immutable truth about life... it's often more cruel than it is fair, and rarely provides an opportunity for any of us to find closure. And all your posture and all your threats of war will merely deal the inevitable, causing you to forfeit you the opportunity you have... that was denied me. You need to tell Oliver goodbye. Tell him how much you love him. Tell him whatever it is your heart needs to express. And do it now. Before he is lost to you forever.

-Ra's Al Ghul (Arrow)