Ninth Circle (Arrowverse)

The Ninth Circle is the main antagonistic faction of the seventh season of the CW TV series Arrow. They are a terrorist organization that's conspired in multiple wars over the last few centuries. They are currently led by Oliver Queen's estranged paternal half-sister, Emiko Queen.

Origins
So far, Llittle is known about the foundation of the organization and how did found it. However, it does date back to the 14th century in Italy. Throughout the centuries, it has funded several large-scale political events and wars, such as the War of the Roses, the Colonization of the Americas, and the Russian Revolution.

Dante brought in a young Emiko Adachi when she was young in the organization and after years of training, she became the leader of the ancient organization. Before this, however, they were involved in Malcolm Merlyn's plan to kill Robert Queen and she allowed it to happen after he disowned her from the family company. The organization manages to keep a low profile as nothing could be found on them on the dark web. Their members wear distinct symbols on their weaponry.

Conflict with Team Arrow
Emiko and Dante led the Circle in stealing drones from Palmer Technologies and weaponizing them with sarin gas. Just as they were about to release the gas, they were barely stopped by Team Arrow. However, it was revealed that the operation was a test. According to Dante, some of the Ninth Circle members have begun questioning Emiko's leadership and allegiance.

Trivia

 * Unlike the comic book version, which was led by Dante, this version of the organization is instead led by Emiko Queen who actually was a former member in the comics.
 * It was originally thought that the Longbow Hunters were the primary antagonistic faction of the seventh season. However, after the events of the episodes "Unmasked" and "Brothers & Sisters", it was revealed the Circle would take up that role.
 * It was revealed in "Inheritance" that the Circle were involved in Merlyn's attack on Robert Queen's gambit, which would result in Oliver Queen and Sara Lance becoming vigilantes.