'S-S-h-ann?'
Shann is lying on the floor, a blank draped over him. When he opens his eyes, Elis is hovering over him, blinking more frequently than usual. His eyes are no longer bloodshot and his complexion has darkened. He doesn't look as haggard as before.
'Sh-ann?'
Shann gulps, fully awake now after Elis reads out his name with a tremulous voice.
'What did you just say?'
'Shann...' The articulation is even clearer this time.
'You...can speak now?'
Elis bites his bottom lip and furrows his brows.
'E-E-Elis.' He points to himself and repeats his name. 'E-Elis.'
'Yes, Elis,' says Shann with an elated smile.
'Me – Elis,' reiterates Elis, tapping his own chest. 'You – Sh-Shann.'
'That's right,' echoes Shann. 'You're Elis. I'm Shann. And you can speak!'
Elis shrugs. He struggles to utter other words but fails. Shann, though, can't stop grinning at his impressive progress. He quickly takes out his notebook and marks down Elis's changes.