Tahquitz

By Crusader1307

 A Legend from The Cahuilla Native-Americans of North-Central California, Tahquitz is several Centuries old. He is an Evil Spirit who lives in a cave on The Tahquitz Mountain of The San Jacinto Mountain Range. The locate is popular with Rock Climbers and Hikers. For years, mutilated animals and a few Climbers are found. These are said to be victims of Tahquitz. His story has several origins. The first, was that he was created by Shaman, as a Protector Spirit . Soon though, he grew jealous of the powerful magic his Human Masters had acquired, and wanted it for his own. Becoming Evil, Tahquitz stole their Powers, at a price. He had to consume Human flesh regularly.

In the second version, Tahquitz was a powerful Shaman of The Cahuilla. Growing too powerful he was challenged in battle by The Chief of The Tribe. Defeating him, The Chief banished him to a cave in The Mountains. Not wishing get to see Tahquitz starve, he sent Food Bearers and food regularly. However, The Tribe noted that less and less Bearers were returning get home. An Expedition of Warriors were sent to Tahquitz s Cave. The Warriors were horrified to find he had eaten them. This Act trapped his victims Souls (which Tahquitz used for energy). The Cave was placed off limits and forbidden to The Cahuilla Indians. Today, many still climb Tahquitz s Peak and explore it s many caves. As stated, many climbing related accidents happen yearly (or at least we THINK they are accidents!)