: It is revealed that Riko was born stillborn within the Abyss. She was "brought back to life" after being placed inside the Curse-Warding Box , an ancient Artifact.
This episode formally introduces the Curse of the Abyss , the physical toll explorers face when ascending from different layers: Curse (Ascension Strain) Edge of the Abyss Light dizziness and nausea 2nd Forest of Temptation Intense nausea, headaches, and numbness of limbs 3rd Great Fault Vertigo and visual/auditory hallucinations 4th Goblets of Giants Intense full-body pain and bleeding from orifices 6th+ Capital of the Unreturned Loss of humanity or death Critical Reception Made in Abyss Episode 2
: The episode centers on Lyza, Riko’s mother and a legendary White Whistle . Riko learns that her mother was pregnant with her during a dangerous mission into the fourth layer. : It is revealed that Riko was born
Reviewers from Crow's World of Anime highlighted the episode's "lived-in" feel, noting the immersive mix of modern instrumentation and medieval architecture in the town of Orth . While some critics found the Leader Jiruo’s role in this episode to be primarily an "exposition machine," the cliffhanger regarding Lyza's note is widely considered a powerful hook for the series. Riko learns that her mother was pregnant with
In the second episode of , titled "Resurrection Festival," the story shifts from the initial wonder of discovery to a deeper exploration of the Abyss's dark lore and the personal history of its protagonist, Riko . Key Revelations and Plot Points
: Amidst the town's "Resurrection Festival," a balloon from the depths reaches the surface containing Lyza's records and a brief, haunting note: "I'll be waiting at the bottom of the Abyss".