the old chief
Role
Leader of the Accala Indian tribe.
Appearance
An elderly man wearing a necklace and bracelet of great lustrous glass beads and the skin of a mottled amber-colored animal.
Background
The ruler of the human tribe inhabiting the caves on the plateau.
Identified
false
Motivations
To protect his people and keep the 'supermen' (the expedition) with his tribe to ensure continued good fortune.
Personality
Authoritative, patriarchal, and dignified; he is grateful to the white men but obstinate in his refusal to help them leave.
Competencies
Tribal leadership and diplomacy.
Plot Relevance
He leads the human forces on the plateau and provides the expedition with a safe haven, while simultaneously acting as a barrier to their escape.
First Appearance
The shore of the central lake
Timeline
Reunion
Welcomes his son Maretas back from the ape-men and embraces the white explorers in gratitude.
The Great War
Rallies his men during the battle against the ape-men when they begin to break.
Refusal to Help
Obstinately refuses to provide the expedition with the materials or labor needed to bridge the chasm.
