Just wanted to update my experience with E2T and Helios.
After completing the Guantlet I was given a "live sim" account which is effectively a live account, but the trades are not actually executed as a way to reduce risk for Helios. I think a lot of people were going live and screwing up (as I did initially).
Once I hit the 5,000 mark in the live sim, I was transferred to a real live account with Helios. The 5,000 I made was mine to keep. I withdrew a portion of it and I've left the rest in for a cushion. Since then, I have been steadily grinding it out on my account with Helios.
Overall, my experience with E2T and Helios remains a very positive one.