Kirk slumped down onto a nearby boulder, huffing and flexing his fingers. His hand felt tingly from practicing with the shard's ability, but even though he felt somewhat drained he was proud to. It was a sense of accomplishment, really, having been able to get off more than a few shots on purpose. It was slow progress, but it was something, and it made him feel a bit more in control of the entire situation.

"Right, think it's time for a change of pace," Kirk looked over to Sam, who had accompanied him out for his practice. He twisted to pick up his staff, laying it across his lap and giving a crooked smile up at his lover. "No magic in this round."