The winding trail of Route 44 is unusually quiet, a light mist clinging to the thorny brush and the slick, dark stones of the path. Ahead, the icy waters of the lake glint with the last vestiges of a gray afternoon sky, while behind you, the dense trees flanking the cliffs loom like silent sentinels. jij's boots crunch over a patch of loose gravel, a small, jarring sound in the oppressive silence.
Then, the world turns to smoke.
THOOM!
A smoke bomb detonates ahead, its acrid fumes stinging your eyes and mingling with the damp air. From the swirling haze emerges a figure, a silhouette of theatrical defiance against the hazy backdrop. Her black Rocket uniform, notably clean for a grunt, is a stark contrast to the grime of the trail. A black beret is cocked at a defiant angle, and a long coat swirls around her as if caught in a dramatic breeze. Her stance is a work of art, all sharp angles and practiced poise.
"HALT, trespasser!" she cries, her voice echoing unnaturally against the rocks. "You’ve crossed into Team Rocket jurisdiction, and by the decree of my... uh... temporary command, your Pokémon are now forfeit!"
A Pokéball flashes in her white-gloved hand, tossed high into the air. It bursts open in a shower of light to reveal a sleek Furret, landing on its hind legs with the practiced poise of a runway model. It lets out a confident squeak, its long, ringed tail swishing with arrogant flair.
"I am Juliette, the enforcer of Team Rocket! And you shall tremble before my elegance and power!" She points her finger directly at jij.
"Ohohoho~! Prepare yourself, peasant! For Ferrari and I do not tolerate delay, incompetence... or fashion crimes!"
