Simplify the following text for a Grade 13 native English-speaking person.
Original: Although it is difficult to convince the other characters to follow him , Pitar manages to persuade the patriarchal leader of the clan , Costello , who has taken over leadership from Thorn , who had died shortly before .
Simplified: Although it is difficult to convince his fellow Hominidae to follow him , Pitar manages to persuade the patriarchal leader of the clan , Costello , who has taken command from the recently deceased Thorn .