The couple with their arms around Hyde in panel 2 are not randos! Hyde meets up with them on a semi-regular basis for Sex Things. You could almost say he is in a polyamorous relationship with them, but Hyde would never admit to having any kind of relationship with anyone, ever. These guys probably won't factor into the story in any significant way, but . . . they're here! I realize now that the lady looks a bit like Miss Lavender. That's an accident! And as for why Jasper appears here goofily half-transformed, that will be explained (briefly) later. Lastly, you should all go see Kubo and the Two Strings! It's a delightful, heartfelt story with lots of Feelings, backed up with Laika's signature stunning design and animation work. And personally, I was touched by how lovingly the artists researched and rendered the film's various aspects of Japanese culture and folklore. It's been a huge hit with critics, but it's taken a hit at the box office (as stop motion films inevitably do). Please support it while it's still in theaters!