Natsume's Book of Friends Season 3 Episode 7 Exorcist

Natsume's Book of Friends season 3 episode 7, titled "Exorcist," is an emotionally charged episode that follows Natsume as he helps a troubled exorcist named Matoba on his latest mission. Matoba, who has always been portrayed in the series as a cunning and manipulative character, seeks Natsume's help for reasons that are not immediately clear.

The episode begins with Natsume in the middle of a pleasant day with his friends, when he is suddenly approached by Matoba and his assistant, Hinoe. Natsume reluctantly agrees to accompany them on their mission to exorcise a powerful yokai that has been causing trouble in a nearby town. Along the way, Natsume learns that the yokai in question is not just any ordinary spirit, but a powerful demon that possesses the ability to inflict great harm on those around it.

As they arrive at the town, Natsume is immediately struck by the oppressive aura that surrounds the area. The town is beset by the demon's malevolent presence, and the villagers are consumed by a sense of fear and desperation. Matoba reassures them that he will help them, but his cold demeanor and lack of empathy contrast starkly with Natsume's kindness and compassion.

As Matoba and Hinoe begin their exorcism ritual, Natsume takes it upon himself to investigate the demon's origins and motivation. He discovers that the demon was once a human who was wrongly executed for a crime he did not commit. His hatred and despair at his unjust fate turned him into the monstrous entity he is now, and he has been wreaking havoc ever since.

Natsume's empathetic nature and deep understanding of the yokai's pain and loneliness allow him to connect with the demon, and he attempts to convince it to leave the town in peace. However, his efforts are in vain, and the demon's destructive rampage continues unabated. As the situation spirals out of control, Matoba realizes that he must set aside his pride and work with Natsume in order to save the town from destruction.

The episode culminates in a thrilling showdown between the exorcists and the demon, as they engage in a battle of wits and wills. The demon's intense hatred and thirst for revenge is matched only by Matoba's ruthless determination to complete his mission, while Natsume's compassion and empathy provide a much-needed counterbalance to the violence and aggression of the other two.

Ultimately, Natsume's understanding of the demon's pain and his willingness to see past its monstrous exterior allows him to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. As the demon fades away, there is a sense of sadness and bittersweetness that pervades the scene. While the town is safe and the demon is gone, there is also a sense that something beautiful and profound has been lost.

Overall, "Exorcist" is a powerful and emotionally resonant episode that showcases Natsume's innate kindness and his ability to connect with even the most troubled and dangerous specters. With its deep exploration of themes like forgiveness, redemption, and the nature of evil, this episode is a standout entry in the already impressive Natsume's Book of Friends franchise.