As always, her appearance to the meeting is unremarkable. She remains quiet - listening to Alysanne and then Tembovu speak until she finds something relevant to speak about.  Gods know that Iona has a lot to say, considering the circumstances, but little that is appropriate for a herd meeting.  Much of what needs to be said is more well suited for a private meeting, so for her this meeting is an exercise in self-control. She allowed a sigh to escape her lips.  

Silently, she filed away the new promotions, committing the ranks and the faces that went with them to memory.  The painted mare is pleased when Raeden speaks up of the plans they’ve been working on.  She’s been proud of how the pale mare has handled the situation - with as much grace as could be expected considering the circumstances. Only when Raeden has finished does Iona add anything. “Raeden is correct - we’re hoping to have the activity fully planned and ready by the end of Birdsong. And all ages will be able to participate, foals included. There will be prizes we’ve worked hard to collect for all of you!” she adds, with a small smile, as her emerald gaze flicks between the gathered. 

Again she falls quiet and allows the meeting to proceed.  And then Toulouse has something to contribute. Iona again fought hard to suppress rolling her eyes as Toulouse spoke.  Clearly this probationary period was off to a great start. Iona couldn’t understand why one who had tried to murder another for this position of power was being allowed to remain in the herd, and found herself bitterly disappointed in Tembovu’s decision. However, she had a suspicion that her sister still did not know of the exact circumstances of what had happened. That was something she sought to rectify as soon as this meeting ended.  Formalities first, and all that. 

“You overstep, Toulouse. Tread carefully - just because you have taken a position by force does not mean that you have now assumed control.” she says, quietly, unwilling to cause a scene but willing to do so if that is what’s necessary.  

“Seeing as how that is the very assignment I gave following our last meeting, an assignment no one in the rank felt compelled to complete, I will not be reassigning it this season,” she speaks louder now, ensuring that she can be heard so her instructions will not be confused. 

She turns her attention to the newly appointed general next, “Roskuld. I’d like to arrange patrols between the Warriors and the Stealth ranks this season.  Between both of our numbers it should be adequate to provide appropriate coverage. I’m certainly concerned with the increased activity surrounding with this new God and all those that his presence has drawn.” It was a point of paranoia for Iona - this new presence and all those that had flocked to him - but it created a good opportunity for successful patrols. 

There was one other matter she felt she had to mention, so she then turned her gaze toward her sister and the King.  “Also, I recommend that we send an emissary to the Dragon’s Throat. It has come to my attention that their borders were violated by one of our own. I think we’d be smart to send a diplomatic party quickly to avoid compromising any alliance with them.” she said, finally, concerned about the implications of one’s unsanctioned visit to the sands.