(The character will be introduced immediately after the episode concludes.)

Scene 1: The Journey to Swiss Hamlet

The morning sun filters through the dense canopy, casting shimmering patches of light on the dirt path as the group makes their way toward Swiss Hamlet. Every step is punctuated by the crunch of leaves and twigs underfoot, the air alive with the scent of dew and wild earth. A cool breeze rustles through the towering trees, carrying with it both the promise of adventure and an undercurrent of uncertainty.

Xero stretches, inhaling deeply as he surveys the expansive wilderness around them.
Xero: (with a broad, relieved grin)
"Ahhh! Nothing beats the wilderness—fresh air, open roads, and the endless possibility of today. It feels like a new beginning, don’t you think?"

Claude, walking beside him with a half-amused, half-skeptical expression, crosses his arms and deadpans:
Claude:
"Every day is a good day… until we get ambushed. And knowing our luck, that might happen sooner rather than later."

Mechan, ever vigilant, scans the treetops and the shifting shadows along the path. His eyes narrow as he listens to the subtle, almost imperceptible changes in the forest's symphony.
Mechan:
"Let's stay sharp. The forest can be unpredictable; we don’t want any surprises along this route."

As they continue, the conversation drifts. Mechan’s voice takes on a curious tone as he suddenly asks,
Mechan:
"By the way, you two mentioned someone named Dylan before. Who exactly is he?"

Xero and Claude share a quick, conspiratorial glance, a silent understanding passing between them before Xero answers with a roguish smile.
Xero:
"An old friend—one we bumped into back in Freaky Town. Dylan’s the guy who opened our eyes to possibilities beyond what we’d imagined."

Claude nods in agreement and adds,
Claude:
"And he’s the one who pointed us toward something important—a Soul Master, apparently hiding in Swiss Hamlet. That could change everything."

Mechan frowns, skepticism etched on his features.
Mechan:
"A Soul Master in a small village? That doesn’t add up. Usually, Soul Masters are tightly connected to the Fortress Guardians or the Vanguards Association. If one’s hiding in Swiss Hamlet, there’s got to be a reason."

Claude shrugs nonchalantly.
Claude:
"Maybe he just prefers a quieter life. Not everyone with power is eager for the spotlight."

Xero, his excitement rekindled, grins mischievously.
Xero:
"Exactly! Once we get to—"
(SMACK!)
Mechan abruptly slaps Xero over the head.
Mechan: (exasperated)
"Swiss Hamlet! Not Sweet Hamlet! Are you hungry or just an idiot?"

Claude bursts into chuckles.
Claude:
"Probably both."

Mechan shakes his head, a wry smile tugging at his lips despite his stern tone.
Mechan:
"Fine. Once we reach Swiss Hamlet, we’ll eat first. But keep your eyes peeled—I have a weird feeling about this route."

No sooner have his words left his mouth than the forest’s ambient sounds—the chirping birds and rustling leaves—suddenly fade into an eerie, oppressive silence. Mechan stops dead in his tracks, his eyes scanning the dense undergrowth. The atmosphere changes in an instant; the cool breeze turns sharp, and a palpable tension grips the air.

Mechan: (in a low, firm whisper)
"Something’s not right. Stay on high alert."

Before they can react, a flash of white fur darts from the shadows toward Xero. In a split second, as if the forest itself were testing their mettle, a blur lunges at him. A resounding crash rings out—Mechan intercepts mid-air, seizing the attacker by the jaw and slamming it forcefully into the ground. The impact sends a shockwave through the clearing. The creature grunts and, in a burst of kinetic energy, shifts shape before their very eyes into a lean, agile man with wild silver hair and a mischievous smirk.

Mechan: (crossing his arms, a blend of amusement and challenge in his voice)
"Nice try, Tyke. Next time, make it faster."

Tyke Ruffian, brushing off the dust and twigs from his clothes, grins broadly.
Tyke:
"Still as sharp as ever, Mechan. Just testing your reflexes, you know?"

Xero and Claude stand frozen for a beat, their expressions a mix of shock and intrigue. Claude’s eyes widen as he asks,
Claude:
"You… know this guy?"

Mechan nods, his tone matter-of-fact.
Mechan:
"Yeah. We’ve crossed paths before. He’s an ex-Guardian who went solo after things went south."

Tyke’s grin falters, and his eyes darken momentarily with an edge of sorrow before he softens.
Tyke: (quietly)
"After what happened to my mentor, I had no reason to stay. I hunt alone now."

A tense silence follows, broken only by the rustle of leaves as Tyke brushes himself off. Then, with a playful lilt returning to his voice, he adds,
Tyke:
"Heard about what happened to the Lethal Troops… Sorry, man."

Mechan’s gaze hardens ever so slightly before he exhales in a measured nod of acknowledgment.
Mechan:
"Thanks."

Tyke stretches casually, hands winding behind his head.
Tyke:
"Well, I won’t keep you. Just wanted to say hi—"

Before anyone can reply, in a blink, Tyke vanishes into the labyrinth of trees as suddenly as he appeared. Xero blinks in confusion, and Claude shakes his head in disbelief.
Xero:
"What the—?"

Claude:
"He's gone."

Mechan shakes his head, a slight chuckle escaping him.
Mechan:
"Yeah. He's always been like that—here one moment, gone the next."

The group resumes their journey with the forest now back in full, vibrant chorus. Yet, the encounter with Tyke leaves an aftertaste of unpredictability and wild camaraderie. As they walk, the conversation turns animated, the dynamic mix of light-hearted banter and underlying tension weaving together a tapestry of hope, caution, and the promise of adventure as they edge ever closer to the enigmatic Swiss Hamlet.

Scene 2: Arriving in Swiss Hamlet

As the dense forest gives way to open fields, Swiss Hamlet emerges before them like a secret whispered among ancient trees. The village, nestled between gentle rolling hills, is bathed in the soft glow of early morning. The quiet, pastoral rhythm is at odds with the tension and adrenaline still pulsing through our heroes. Villagers move about with a cautious air—some carrying baskets of freshly harvested produce, others exchanging hushed greetings—while wary eyes track the newcomers.

Xero, stepping off the narrow woodland path, surveys the village with a mix of wonder and suspicion.
Xero: (curious, scanning the surroundings)
"Hmm... It’s almost too quiet here. Where are all the restaurants and lively market squares we heard about?"

Mechan, ever the realist, rolls his eyes and smirks.
Mechan:
"Small villages like this aren’t built for extravagance. You’ll find what you need, and maybe a few surprises—if you’re lucky."

Claude, still recovering from their recent ordeal yet eager to push forward, chuckles as he adjusts his gear.
Claude:
"Surprises? I hope they’re the good kind. I’d rather have a feast than another ambush."

Their banter is interrupted when they approach a modest food stall near the village center. The aroma of sizzling spices and roasting meat tempts them. A weathered old man—Lolo Norman—stands behind the counter, diligently frying what appears to be a batch of bright, crispy snacks. His hands, roughened by years of labor, move with practiced ease.

Claude leans in, his eyes narrowing as he asks,
Claude:
"Hey, what exactly is he selling here?"

Before Lolo Norman can answer, a local child, munching on a skewer of delicious treats, pipes up with a cheeky grin,
Village Kid:
"That’s Kwek-Kwek, mister! Best in Swiss Hamlet, if you ask me!"

The three share a laugh and soon decide to buy the entire batch. As they bite into the spicy, savory treats, Xero’s face lights up in delight.
Xero: (mouth full, exclaiming)
"This... is amazing! Lolo Norman, you’ve outdone yourself!"

Lolo Norman, his eyes crinkling with a mix of pride and quiet caution, leans over the counter.
Lolo Norman:
"Glad you like it, young ones. But tell me, what brings you all to Swiss Hamlet? Not many travelers wander this far without purpose."

The question hangs in the warm air. Claude exchanges a quick glance with Xero before replying,
Claude:
"We’re on a quest for something greater—a rumor about a Soul Master here. They say this place holds secrets that can unlock true potential."

At the mere mention of such forbidden knowledge, Lolo Norman’s expression changes. His friendly smile falters, and for a moment, his eyes dart nervously as he lowers his voice to a cautious whisper.
Lolo Norman:
"Secret, you say? I’ve never heard of a Soul Master hiding here... but then again, not all truths are meant to be spoken aloud."

Before Claude can probe further, Lolo Norman’s gaze sharpens as he notices a symbol on the worn map peeking out of Claude’s pack—a symbol of old alliances and hidden legacies.
Lolo Norman: (suddenly)
"Wait… you’re friends of Dylan, aren’t you? That changes things."

Claude and Xero exchange a surprised look, and Claude nods.
Claude:
"Yes, we’re in the same circle. Dylan pointed us this way—said Swiss Hamlet held a key to unlocking our potential."

Lolo Norman’s demeanor softens again. He glances around at the hushed villagers before leaning closer, his tone conspiratorial yet warm.
Lolo Norman:
"Very well. Come with me."

He leads them through narrow, winding alleys until they reach a small, secluded hut on the village’s edge. The structure, modest yet full of character, is adorned with faded murals depicting ancient legends and brave warriors. As they enter, they’re greeted by Lina, Lolo Norman’s daughter, and Wicca, his skeptical granddaughter, who eyes the newcomers with wary curiosity.

Wicca: (arms folded, crossing her gaze)
"I told you, Grandpa, we don’t let just anyone in here!"

Lolo Norman chuckles, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
Lolo Norman:
"Relax, child. These ones aren’t like the others. They carry the mark of destiny on their faces."

Ignoring Wicca’s protest, Lolo Norman ushers them into a dimly lit chamber below the hut—a secret room that smells of old parchment, incense, and history. The walls are lined with ancient relics, scrolls, and worn tomes that whisper forgotten stories. The air vibrates with an enigmatic energy, as if the room itself holds the key to the village’s hidden wisdom.

Claude’s eyes widen as he surveys the room, and Xero runs his fingers over a faded tapestry depicting heroic battles and mystical symbols.
Xero: (in awe)
"Every inch of this place tells a story… a history that’s been kept hidden from the world."

Lolo Norman, now solemn and earnest, steps forward.
Lolo Norman:
"Here in Swiss Hamlet, we guard not just our crops or our homes, but the legacy of those who came before us. The Soul Master you seek may be among these secrets—if you’re willing to uncover them."

The room falls silent for a moment as each person absorbs the weight of his words. The promise of forgotten knowledge, of unlocking hidden power, pulses in the air like a heartbeat.
Claude: (quietly, determined)
"We’re ready to learn, to fight for our future."

With that declaration, a spark of hope ignites in the dim chamber. The encounter in Swiss Hamlet isn’t just about a meal or a safe haven—it’s the threshold of a new chapter, where ancient secrets and personal destinies intertwine. As the group gathers their thoughts and prepares for the next phase of their journey, the quiet promise of the Soul Master lingers—a beacon calling them to step further into a world of mystery, power, and endless possibility.