Once upon a time, in a remote village nestled deep within the Philippine islands, there lived a young woman named Maria. Maria was known for her beauty, kindness, and gentle spirit. However, she harbored a dark secret—she was a manananggal.

Every night, when the moon rose high in the sky, Maria's transformation would begin. Her body would split in half, and her upper torso would sprout enormous bat-like wings. With her newfound wings, Maria would fly into the night in search of prey.

Despite her monstrous form,...