English Dub Review: Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun “The Cradle of Desire”

Overview:

Vueko tells the story of how her group came across the sixth layer and the horrors they had to endure.

Our Take:

We see more of Ilblu’s origin and the Ganja’s exploration of the sixth layer. The group learns that there’s no returning to the surface and they have to face many dangers.

Irumyuui becomes more attached to Vueko. She says Vueko reminds her of her mother and she tells Vueko the story of how she was cast aside. She was said to be a cursed child and she tells Vueko she doesn’t want to be thrown away again. Naturally, Vueko takes care of Irumyuui the best she can.

Unfortunately, Irumyuui and many other members of the group fall ill. They get fevers and diarrhea, and their bodies start to change shape. The group finds a stone that is known as “The Cradle of Desire.” It’s a wishing egg, but it should only be held by a child. Vueko decides to give it to Irumyuui.

Afterwards, Irumyuui says she is no longer in pain, but her body is still changing. Not only that, but she also starts having babies. Each time one appears, it dies shortly after and the tragic cycle keeps repeating.

Vueko falls ill in the interim and she feels bad that she can’t be with Irumyuui while all of this is happening. Wazukyan tends to Vueko while she is ill. When she recovers, he reminds Vueko that he once said that child would save them.

This episode was a bit of a slow burn, but it was still worth the watch. I like that the show is taking a little bit of time to show us the origin of this village and those who explored it.

It’s impossible not to feel bad for Irumyuui in this situation. She was cast aside by her original family and it seems like her wish was to become a mother. Tragically, every time that happens, her baby dies almost instantly.

I also like Vueko more and more every time I see her. She’s an excellent mother figure to Irumyuui and despite her shy nature, I think she’s one of the strongest members of the group. Maybe not in a physical sense, but she’s been through a lot and she’s still willing to put other peoples’ needs before her own.

I don’t think we’re done seeing this backstory, but it’s a great part of the show. I do like seeing our main trio, like I’ve said before, but I’m becoming increasingly interested in this group.