Arthur King was a professional Archer. Oliver Queen was inspired to take up archery all because of the skilled archer, Merlyn "the Magician." Once Green Arrow was famous, Merlyn challenged the Green Arrow to a public archery contest. Merlyn manage to defeat the Green Arrow, and disappeared with the victory under his belt. Merlyn later reappeared and became a member of the League of Assassins, and a former member of the 1000.