The Manitou

Karen Tandy learns that she has a persistent tumor growing on her neck. Desperate for relief, she decides to seek treatment at a prestigious hospital in San Francisco, where she hopes for answers and a cure.

Upon examination, Dr. Jack Hughes uncovers that the tumor is not just a growth but a developing fetus. This shocking discovery leads Karen into a complex emotional struggle as she must confront the implications of this revelation.

To find comfort and guidance, Karen reaches out to old friends, including Harry Erskine, a dubious fortune teller. Under Harry's roof, she opens up about her fears and the discomfort caused by the unusual circumstances surrounding her condition.

Karen begins to whisper the phrase 'pana witchy salatoo' in the night, signaling the encroachment of dark forces into her life. The atmosphere grows increasingly unsettling as supernatural elements begin to manifest.

During the surgery to remove the tumor, things take a turn for the worse, leaving the surgeon shaken and injured. The unexpected horrors during the procedure escalate the tension and concern surrounding Karen's well-being.

Fearing dark influences surrounding Karen, Harry consults former psychic Amelia Caruso and her associate MacArthur for assistance. The two join forces with Mrs. Karmann, Amelia's aunt, who claims to possess ancient wisdom.

This eclectic group attempts to summon the spirit haunting Karen through a séance. However, their efforts are thwarted by a violent thunderstorm, reflecting the intensity of the supernatural forces at play.

They turn to Dr. Snow, an aging anthropologist, who shares stories of 400-year-old Indian medicine men known for their supernatural abilities. His knowledge sheds light on the cultural and spiritual dimensions of Karen's situation.

The group seeks counsel from John Singing Rock, a reclusive medicine man. Initially met with hostility, John reveals that Karen's troubles are due to manitou, spirits prevalent in their surroundings, and offers to help for a price.

Harry and John prepare to create a protective barrier of fine sand around Karen's bed to confine the malevolent spirit’s power. Meanwhile, the dark entity introduces itself as Misquamacus, a vengeful Native American shaman.

Misquamacus warns John to stay out of Harry and Karen's affairs, showcasing his strength and fury over the devastation of his people. This sets up an intense confrontation between the living and the spirit.

John attempts to call upon the strength of other manitou to combat Misquamacus, but their silence leaves him vulnerable. The dark spirit animates a deceased nurse, unleashing terror upon the hospital.

Recognizing the need for intervention, Harry comes up with a plan to use nearby electrical equipment to counter Misquamacus. The collaboration with John is hesitant, but they both see it as a necessity.

As an earthquake signifies the arrival of the Great Old One, Harry and John activate hospital machinery to channel mystical energies against Misquamacus. The showdown leads to a surreal struggle for Karen's spirit as she grapples with unseen forces.

In a moment of transformation, Karen uses the mystical energies to defeat Misquamacus and the specters that haunt her. The chaos finally subsides, leading to an emotional reunion between Harry and Karen, marking their victory against the dark forces.