The charge medic reports that Private Svetlana Starkov is still unconscious when they arrive - but Corporal Valeriya Oretsev is conscious and stable, though still lightly disoriented. They're already in a private tent; most of the skiff crew have been removed from public sight in as small of groups as they can manage. 

The Darkling thanks him and sweeps into the tent. 

Val's standing already. She still has her knives. 

And she's in front of Svetka's prone form when they enter, a long knife on a little rickety table next to her hand.

"What do you want?" she demands.

"Does your commander tolerate this behavior, Corporal?"

"Us trackers are independent sorts." 

"So what do you want, General?"

"Private Starkov showed an impressive power in the Fold. I understand she saved the lives of everyone who returned to us."

"And that power is one that, if it is truly what it seems, will provide a significant advantage to whoever controls it. Our enemies aren't stupid; I can delay word getting out, but only so long."

"Private Starkov's life and freedom are in danger, Corporal. I would ask you not stand in my way."

She pauses for a long moment, something angry and trapped in her eyes and posture.

"She won't cooperate if you separate us," she says then, tone flat.

"You think that'll matter to our enemies?"

"I think you want her wrapped up in walls and under your thumb as soon as you can, and I think it'd be inconvenient for you if she woke during the trip and freaked out."

She tilts her head slightly. Then: "What do you think, Colonel Nazyalensky?"

She considers.

"I think that regardless of whether Corporal Oretsev is assessing the reaction of Private Starkov accurately, we would have to kill her to prevent her from attempting to break into the Little Palace if she is left behind."

"Insubordination is an executable offense regardless," she says, mildly. 

"I believe that would be a waste of a talented tracker and a creative mind, sir."

Hum.

She evaluates Val's guarded posture for several very, very long moments. Then: "Very well."

"Corporal Oretsev, you and Private Starkov are to remain here for now. You however will be transferred to a carriage shortly. I will retrieve you when that time comes. Do not leave with anyone other than me. Do not speak of what happened."

"Yes, sir."

She inclines her head, then leaves. 

She doesn't gesture one way or the other on whether Elvira should continue following her.

She waits.

"It's good to see you recovering."

" - It's good you survived," she says. 

"And - thanks."

"Mm." She steps closer. "I suppose that celebration will need to be postponed again."

She grins. "Depends on how long the carriage takes."

"And how close you intend to stay to your friend."

"...Close."

"I'm not letting anyone take her."

She nods.

"Be cautious with that sentiment around the Darkling. She has been waiting for a Sun Summoner a long time, and has little patience for defiance."

"What will she do if Svetka defies her?"

"I cannot say. I expect she is considering that question herself."

"But one way or another, every Grisha that comes to the Little Palace learns to use their abilities to fullest."

"Then I'll be with her every step of the way." Heavy sigh. 

"...Well. This is, if nothing else, better than being eaten."