The Great Undertaking

He came to her rescue, only to find he couldn't do anything for her. His access to essence was restricted. 

"Are you alright?" he asked, holding her head. 

She barely gestured affirmative. "Move on," she managed to say. "I can only say it will get worse the more time passes." 

He nodded and stood back, eyes at the prize. Clenching his jaw, he moved towards the core as fast as he could, which was a little better than jogging. 

He fell right before the sceptre, his expression turning ugly with the dark essence trying to invade his body. His heart churned. Though not at its most effective, it did not let any foreign will invade him. 

Finally, he stood back again, took in a deep breath and grasped the sceptre with his palm. Instantly, all the suppression was lifted off from him, while he became aware of many of the functions of the sceptre. It was simply too much for him to comprehend in a short time.