Only Two Minutes [Cyrus, Helle]

Even if there was regret in Helle's eyes, there was none in Cyrus'. It was true that he was in overwhelming agony, but that had simply been necessary. His mind now raced, but for once, it was not with plans for how he might grow more powerful, how he might singlehandedly carry the world into a bright new age. It was who might assist him in that aim.

"I will seek out what I may, but there is far more to be gained than mere strength. I must lead beyond simple power. If I cannot surpass Mazda in that, then I will simply lead in such a way that he may only follow."

There was already a plan formulating in his mind, but he would need to consider it in more depth before he dared even speak the idea. He knew that Mazda was an inevitable threat. But, in much the same way, having split Mazda away from himself merely meant that he, now, would no longer need to sacrifice himself for the sake of his promises. He wondered, briefly, if that had been Arcadia's intention.

He did owe her much, as he did all those who had assisted him. He could not fail any of them now.