Heroes - Episode 24: I Am Sylar

Sylar needs a hug. Granted, that sounds probably as smart as giving a velociraptor a little extra TLC. But it still surprises me that the battle-hardened Petrellis and the deeply-cerebral Noah still can't understand that while they munch their diner grub at the opening of Monday night's episode. They are so blinded by their single-minded chivalry they cannot see the psychology behind his hunger when he's pontificating on the TV as Senator Petrelli of New York.

Yes, it's easy to write Sylar off as the show's resident sociopath, as he effortlessly slices up a tidy, older gentleman with Hummel-figurine friends before the first commercial. Even still, he justifies these attacks by going after those he feels are somehow "burdened" by their ability, and acts as if he's doing them a favor. Sure, this isn't giving your neighbor a cup of sugar, but it immediately clears up their self-loathing.

Besides, if Sylar were such a sociopath, why does he bother to absorb his adoptive mother's DNA? He does it at great risk to himself, as he reveals to Danko earlier that Agent Taub and he are fighting for control of his body. So, why absorb another character atop the already staggering list of special abilities he harvested?

It's because Sylar, as opposed to Nathan, understands that greed doesn't get you Pinehearst. It makes a down payment for your backwoodsy shack - decorated with roadkill that are unable to appreciate your talent. Then again, that suits Nathan well, as he's okay with alienation. Strangely enough, Sylar isn't.

The encouragement of Micah "Rebel" Sanders also helped to remind everybody's favorite serial murderer that all hope isn't lost. But, if Sylar's adopted mother-morph has anything to say about it, it's that her boy isn't "special" enough. It's that disapproval that fuels Sylar's quest for an unattainable completion – possibly as our next commander-in-chief if he gets his way.

Fortunately, Parkman set the bar much lower for himself, and is content with fatherhood. His goals are more simple and attainable, unlike Ando's unreasonable demands for equality with Hiro.

"The Crimson Arc" may not be packing any oomph, but Hiro can't deny it much longer once he learns he can't freeze Ando anymore for bait. I'm still waiting for Ando's "aha" moment where he forces Hiro's hand, rather than prostrating himself at his best friend's feet after he gets sold up river, time and time again. But, until then, Ando will be at his side – mopping up Hiro's nosebleed – while his best friend still tries to stay more relevant than Mohinder.