Reigen's New Client
A fake exorcist and a real psychic tackle a haunted house mystery that reveals the true nature of courage.
Reigen's New Client is a pivotal early story arc in Mob Psycho 100 that establishes the core dynamic between Shigeo Kageyama and his mentor, Arataka Reigen. This narrative segment focuses on a young girl named Ritsu Tani, who believes she is haunted by a ghost after her family moves into a new home. The arc serves as a crucial vehicle for character development, showcasing Reigen's elaborate con artistry while simultaneously highlighting Shigeo's genuine desire to help others despite his lack of confidence.
Quick Facts
- Protagonist
- Shigeo Kageyama (Mob)
- Mentor/fraud
- Arataka Reigen
- Client
- Ritsu Tani
- Arc type
- Case File; Slice of Life
- Key theme
- The value of effort vs. supernatural power
Lore & Background
For Shigeo, known as Mob, the case is a test of his growing identity. While he possesses overwhelming psychic energy capable of instantly resolving any supernatural threat, he chooses to follow Reigen's lead, suppressing his power to allow Ritsu to face her fears naturally. The arc reinforces the series' central philosophy: that true strength comes from personal growth and emotional maturity, not just raw ability. It also deepens the bond between Mob and Reigen, showing how their unlikely partnership functions as a balance of deception and genuine care.
Reader's Guide
The narrative begins with Ritsu Tani contacting Reigen Spirits after moving into a home where she hears strange noises and feels an oppressive presence. Reigen accepts the job, bringing Mob along as his assistant, though he plans to handle the 'exorcism' through psychological manipulation rather than actual spiritual intervention. Upon arriving at the house, Mob detects no malevolent spirits, only Ritsu's intense anxiety and a drafty environment causing the noises. Reigen devises a plan to stage a dramatic confrontation with a non-existent ghost, intending to trick Ritsu into realizing her fear is self-imposed. He instructs Mob to play along, creating illusions of supernatural activity that are actually mundane tricks. The climax occurs when Ritsu confronts the 'ghost' in the attic. Instead of being saved by Mob's power, she must find the courage to face the darkness herself. Reigen guides her through a speech about bravery and memory, effectively talking her down from her panic. The resolution sees Ritsu realizing the 'haunting' was never real, allowing her family to live peacefully. Ultimately, the arc resolves by reinforcing Mob's role as a supportive observer who values human connection over power displays, while Reigen proves that his con artist skills can be used for genuine good when guided by empathy.
Did You Know?
- This arc highlights how Reigen often solves problems using psychology and showmanship rather than actual psychic abilities, even though he claims to have them.
- The 'ghost' in Ritsu's house is revealed to be a combination of wind drafts and the girl's own heightened imagination fueled by fear.
- This story serves as an early example of how Reigen, despite being a fraud, genuinely cares about his clients' well-being.
More in Story Arcs & Episodes
Elsewhere in Mob Psycho 100
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