♚☾ A Ship lost at sea: chapter 1: Part 2 of 2

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Part 2: Stranded: Part 2: He then turned to Val, once the others wearily gathered around. Viper and Snake hadn't moved from their spot. And Snake was still coughing up water. “I need your help with the others. You’re the strongest out of us right now,” He said, knowing it was the only way to get Val motivated and get his mind off the terror of the wreck. “Why don't you go help Kael with the headcount? Then come back here,” He could already see the usual arrogance returning to Valerious’s eyes as his prince stood up, limping towards Kael. He turned to check on Snake and his brother, who had just stood up, Snake leaning heavily against Viper. Viper was supporting Snake, but Cosmci could tell they both were on the verge of collapse. Snake more than Viper. He approached them, boots crunching on the sand. Viper looked up from Snake sharply, his eyes narrowing as he saw cosmic, “What do you want, King?” He snarled, a hint of his usual mockery creeping in. Snake lifted his head weakly, then dropped it again, as if Cosmic wasn't worth the effort. Cosmic felt a flash of concern through him. Snake’s eyes were dull, his breathing labored and weak. He didn't look like he would survive much longer. But Viper was glaring at him, eyes blazing with a furious protectiveness. Cosmic raised his hands slightly, trying to show he meant no harm. “Viper, calm down, I’m just checking in,” He said, but Viper's scowl deepened. “Well, we don't need your concern. We’re . . . fine, thank you very much, “ He hissed, then, gripping Snake tighter, he led his brother to the shade of another palm tree. Snake sat down heavily, his breath quickened. Cosmic sighed. Viper would never accept his help. He glanced back toward the meeting palm. The other survivors were clustered together, some leaning on others, or some standing off to the side. Val had given up, lying sprawled on the sand, leaving Kael to do the rest. Cosmic approached the Scorpion Lieutenant, who lifted his eyes to meet the king’s. “Who’s missing?” Cosmic asked quietly, already dreading the answer. Kale sighed, a sorrowful expression on his face, “Sevan in total, your Majesty,” He whispered. Cosmic drew in a sharp breath, “Who?” Kael hesitated, shifting his feet, “Darick, Finch, Delma, sir,” He paused, taking in the king’s expression, which was growing grimer, then continued “And Dash, Colin, Saphire, and . . .” He paused once again, clearly dreading what he was about to say next, “And . . . Blitz,” Cosmic closed his eyes tightly. Blitz. His sister. Kael bit his lip, shifting from one foot to the other. He seemed to know that offering comfort right now wasn't enough. Finally, Cosmic drew in a sharp breath, his heart still feeling like it would shatter, “Alright, everyone,” He began shakily, “Get in line. Someone take the rear. We head to the forest,” The survivors obeyed, wearily gathering in a loose line. Viper had Snake on his back. The Scorpion Commander looked worse already. His breathing was slow, and his eyes half-opened. Cosmic’s eyes paused on the two for a moment before he dragged them away. “We head out now,” He stated, taking the lead and heading into the forest. Kael dropped behind, taking up the rear as the ragged group trudged into the jungle.