Washo

(map)

This myth simply does not have a ring of authenticity to it. None of it matches what I have seen in other Washo stories.

The tribe was once prosperous and strong and possessed the whole earth. But another people rose up and defeated and enslaved them. Then the Great Spirit sent a great wave from the sea across the continent. It engulfed all people; only a small remnant survived. Afterwards, taskmasters forced the remaining people to build a great temple so that the ruling caste may have a refuge in case of another flood. The masters worshipped a perpetual flame at the top of this temple.

Nelson, 1931, 186.