The Mystic leader
The leader of the distant tribe is an older man with a gentle demeanor. He speaks formally and politely but has occasional peculiarities in his speech - odd phrasings like those of a speaker of a second language.
He and his tribe wear simple garments with natural adornments and live modestly and nomadically.
The Mystic steers the discussion away from Hank’s purpose - finding his brother - and toward the mysterious and supernatural. He speaks of monsters, ghosts, and miracles before Hank cuts him off and demands to see his brother.
Hank realizes he has been drinking a hallucinogen as part of this tribe’s traditions. As the effects set in, the Mystic speaks on Ata-Atsu and entreats him for gifts of strength and wisdom for all present and the courage to rise to the challenge of reaching their full potential.
After the ritual, Hank admonishes the Mystic for misleading his people with these “false claims.” The Mystic (to no avail) appeals to Hank’s trust in his brother, who finds meaning in this belief system. When the Mystic insists that he receives power from Ata Atsu and his religious relics, Hank challenges the disciples’ credulity by striking the Mystic in the throat, sending him gasping to the ground.