The power surging outwards from the Tower sent ripples through the city streets. Here and there a fountain of rubble shot up in the air, and casters were running all over to minimize the damage to their precious city and its occupants. The shouts and cries echoing through the streets died down slowly as people hid in their houses or gathered in the safety of the city square.<br/><br/>When the tremors subsided, and no attacks followed the shaking earth, the men and women of Myrta allowed themselves to be reassured and went back about their business. The quake was the talk of the day and as she walked back to the Tower, Amber overheard many wild speculations as to its cause. Some of them made her chuckle, such as the one that ventured the Mother had lost her patience with the bureaucrats at last, and others that made her jaw set and twist her lips into a grim line.<br/><br/>Ascending the steps towards the Tower, Amber entered the premises proper and took off her helmet, carrying it in the curve of her right arm. She wiped the heel of her hand over her stinging eyes, wiping some of the grime and dust from her face. “Any news?” Amber lowered her voice as she stepped up to the guards, shooting a glance to the door behind them. “They are still inside?” She nodded, and pursed her lips, considering her options.  The Mother would send for her if she needed her skills, and the fact that she had not was somewhat reassuring. At least, nothing had gone spectacularly wrong…  By now, it would be known if the Mother had been successful, but she understood the reasons for secrecy. The enemy had eyes everywhere and it wouldn’t do to shout out their results towards the distant, ever burning fires of Jahl-Ra.<br/><br/>“There has been word of raids near the Aislin river.” She mused. “Unless the Mother needs me here, I shall travel there. If she inquires after the city, please inform her it is under control. We were fortunate. No one died, and only a few of the slow or careless suffered minor injuries.” Amber looked away from the door.<i>And I am sorry…</i>, she thought.<i>I could not save your children. I am truly, deeply sorry.</i><br/><br/>She saluted and turned, descending the stairs to the ground level where her own chambers were housed.<br/>