Condemned to Live

A trio of explorers is hiding in a cave in Africa when one of them, a pregnant woman, is bitten by a vampire bat. This event sets the stage for the mysterious developments that follow. The explorers' encounter hints at supernatural elements influencing the story.

The story shifts forward to a small European village plagued by a series of mysterious murders. The villagers suspect a giant bat is responsible and gather in mobs, especially at Professor Kristan's house after each murder. The villagers seek safety and a scientific explanation for the killings.

Professor Kristan advises the villagers on precautions they should take and assures them that a scientific explanation exists for the murders. His calm demeanor reassures the villagers, but underlying tensions remain due to the ongoing killings.

It is revealed that Kristan himself is the murderer. During darkness, he is attacked by episodes that trigger a trance-like state where he becomes violent and murderous. After each trance, Kristan has no memory of his actions, believing he merely fainted.

Kristan's loyal hunchback assistant, Zan, is the only person aware of Kristan's condition. Zan follows Kristan during his trances, ensuring that Kristan's actions are concealed and preventing him from being discovered as the murderer.

Kristan's old friend, Dr. Bizet, visits and quickly suspects something is wrong with Kristan. He learns that Kristan's mother was bitten by a vampire bat, suggesting Kristan may have inherited vampiric traits, which explains his condition.

Kristan, in a trance, attacks his fiancé, Maxine Doyle. This event heightens the villagers' suspicion and fear, as they witness Kristan's violent episodes firsthand. The mob's suspicion shifts more strongly toward Kristan.

The villagers, believing Zan is responsible for the murders, chase him to a cave's edge. Kristan arrives and, despite Zan's protests, confesses to the murders. His confession reveals his awareness of his condition, yet he is overwhelmed by guilt and fear.

Facing the mob's wrath, Kristan throws himself off the cliff, ending his life. Zan follows him in a tragic act of loyalty, marking the conclusion of their intertwined fates as the town confronts the mystery and horror.