Series & First Appearance
Ouzen, known as "The Immovable Lord," originates from the anime and manga series Made in Abyss, created by Akihito Tsukushi. She first appears in Chapter 50 of the manga and is prominently featured in the anime adaptation, particularly in Episode 9 of the second season, titled "The Edge of the Abyss."
Profile at a Glance
Ouzen’s apparent age is deceptive, as she gives off a youthful appearance while actually being over 50 years old, having attained her White Whistle rank decades ago. As a member of the elite White Whistle cave raiders, she oversees a small group known as "The Layabouts" from her base at the Seeker Camp, located on the second level of the Abyss. Her unique relic, "Thousand Pins," grants her superhuman abilities, including enhanced strength, speed, and longevity.
Personality & Motivations
Ouzen is characterized by her stoic demeanor and enigmatic personality. She possesses absolute control over her facial expressions, rendering her true emotions difficult to discern. This ambiguity serves to enhance her mystique, as she often chooses not to provide clear answers to inquiries about her motivations or actions. Ouzen shows a certain level of cruelty and indifference, yet she has glimpses of deep-seated care—evident in her relationship with Riko’s mother, Lyza, whom she regarded as a close friend and mentor. Notably, she often toys with truth, leading others to question her sincerity.
Abilities / Powers
Ouzen wields the "Thousand Pins" relic, which enhances her physical capabilities to extraordinary levels. This grants her the ability to move quickly, overpower opponents effortlessly, and endure the lethal effects of the Curse of the Abyss for a prolonged period. Her combat style is direct and overwhelmingly powerful, showcasing a peering, strategic mind alongside her brute strength. However, despite her immense abilities, Ouzen’s life is irrevocably altered by the Curse, as evidenced by her scalp deformations resulting from extended exposure to the Abyss’s depths.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Ouzen’s character experiences significant development during her interactions with Riko, Reg, and Nanachi as they venture into her territory. Her mentorship of Lyza and subsequent role as an almost maternal figure serves as a pivotal backdrop against which her character is explored. The depth of her knowledge about the Abyss and its dangers becomes intertwined with her past choices, establishing her not only as a formidable ally but also as a morally complex character. As the narrative unfolds, the layers of her enigmatic persona are gradually peeled back, revealing motivations tied to loyalty, love, and loss.
Notable Relationships
One of Ouzen’s most defining relationships is with Lyza, Riko’s mother, who was both her mentee and a close friend. This connection adds layers to her character, showcasing both her nurturing side and the scars of loss. Beyond this, she interacts with Riko and her allies, oscillating between a mentor-like role and a more intimidating presence, further complicating their perception of her. The relationship dynamics often highlight Ouzen’s unpredictable nature, as allies and foes alike find her difficult to read.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes involving Ouzen occurs during a confrontation with Riko and her team, where she delivers unexpected insights about the nature of the Abyss and its challenges. In Chapter 52, she imparts wisdom tinged with foreboding, saying, “The Abyss is a cruel teacher.” This quote encapsulates the dangers of their journey and Ouzen’s understanding of the Abyss as both a deadly adversary and a source of invaluable lessons. It strikes a chord with fans due to the attention it draws to the thematic weight of sacrifice and survival.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Ouzen has garnered significant popularity, ranking high in fan votes and recognition. She is particularly notable for her design, which reflects the harsh realities of life in the Abyss; her two-meter height and distinctive hairstyle are visually striking elements. The Japanese voice of Ouzen is provided by Shizuka Ito, known for her versatile vocal range, while the English adaptation features the talented voice of Monica Rial, who captures the character’s complexity brilliantly. Ouzen’s design and characterization resonate strongly with fans, jointly contributing to her status as a favorite within the Made in Abyss community.
In summary, Ouzen stands as a central figure whose strength, enigmatic personality, and intricate connections with the past enrich the narrative tapestry of Made in Abyss. As viewers delve deeper into the series, her layers continue to intrigue and captivate audiences, establishing her as a notable character in modern anime.
