Cristóbal is the main villain in SITP. He's a 'conduit,' meaning he has the power to send people into the Slip, an alternate reality. Cristóbal has also figured out how to use the Slip's power for his own purposes. While we don't know his full backstory and true intentions yet, he symbolizes those who exploit emotionally vulnerable individuals.

Cristóbal committed a terrible act by killing Faye's mother five years ago. He had tried to persuade her to join him because she, too, was a conduit with a strong connection to the Slip. When she refused, he took her life. Now, Cristóbal is interested in Faye because she's inherited her mother's abilities. He brought Faye and Rich into the Slip, hoping to recruit Faye for his cause.