Arrow fans, the agonizing wait is almost over. [Spoilers ahead.]

Fans of the CW's hit superhero show were left clutching their TV screens in horror by the mid-season finale's shocking cliffhanger. In the finale's closing moments, a brutal fight between Oliver Queen and Ra's al Ghul ended with Oliver's apparent death.

At least his city isn't completely defenseless without him. Oliver has spent the last two-and-a-half seasons building up a team of crime fighters and support staff, but can the group carry on effectively without its leader? And is Oliver really dead? This teaser should give you a taste of how that question will be answered.

But Oliver's absence isn't the only item on the menu, as the first new episode, "Left Behind," will also address some long-awaited developments elsewhere. Here's the CW's official description:

"In the aftermath of Oliver's fight with Ra's al Ghul, Diggle and Arsenal continue to protect the city in the Arrow's absence. However, after three days without hearing from Oliver, they begin to fear the worst may have happened to their friend. Felicity refuses to believe that Oliver could be dead until Merlyn pays the team a surprise visit. Thea suspects there is something more behind Oliver's disappearance and asks Merlyn for a favor. Meanwhile, Ray tests a part of his new suit and Laurel takes up the mantle of the Black Canary."

"Left Behind" was written by Marc Guggenheim & Erik Oleson and directed by Glen Winter. It will air when Arrow returns on Wednesday, January 21, 2015.