Select the correct answer. Which sentence best summarizes the Persian Empire near the end of Cyrus's reign?

A.
The empire was divided into numerous provinces, whose satraps fought wars against each other.
B.
The empire was stable and prosperous because of Cyrus's strong leadership.
C.
The government ran out of money to pay the military and carry out public works.
D.
The military was unable to defend the empire against neighboring powers.
E.
The satraps grabbed political power for themselves because of Cyrus's weak leadership.