Disappear

You're about to answer Ashley, when another member of your staff walks in looking flustered.

"Mister mayor, the media is here. They say they're here for another press conference, but I don't think anyone here arranged it. Did you have something to do with this? What should I tell them?" the middle-aged city hall employee says. You don't remember her name and you definitely can't be bothered to learn it now.

You take a moment to think. The mysterious man, Alpha, or his associates must have set this up. He's really forcing your hand and making you decide whether or not to resign and go away. After the intimidation and a sleepless night, giving seems like the easy way out. After all, you'd still have your magic rings and you can still use them to your personal advantage as long as you don't draw the attention of Alpha. Becoming famous had never been the plan in the first place and you've come a long way since coming into possession of the magic rings.

"Mister mayor?" the middle-aged woman says.

You blink and stand up. You look at her then Ashley, who looks just as confused about the situation. You shake your head. "Tell them there's been a misunderstanding. I didn't call them here. Say it's a hoax or something. Figure it out," you say. The employee looks unsure and you have to wave her away dismissively to get her to leave.

Once she's gone, Ashley leans in closer. "What's going on? Really?" she asks.

You consider her for a while, thinking if you should tell her about the man last night. However, that would mean having to tell her everything from the start. It would be helpful to have someone to talk to who knows what you're going through, but right now you're still shaken from the encounter with Alpha and you're not sure who you can trust anymore. For all you know, Ashley might be a spy from Alpha.

"Nothing. I just need some time alone to catch up on... stuff. Leave those papers and make sure I'm not disturbed for the rest of the day. If anyone asks, say I'm busy getting to work for the people of this city. Got it?" you say. Ashley nods and leaves, looking over her shoulder at you right before she closes the door behind her.

When she's gone, you activate your teleportation ring.