Seiji Matoba is a tall and slender man with a refined, almost aristocratic appearance that reflects his position as the head of the prestigious Matoba clan. He has sharp, angular facial features, with pale skin and piercing dark eyes that seem to assess everything with a calculated detachment. His most distinctive feature is the black eyepatch covering his right eye, a result of an incident involving a yōkai during his youth.

Matoba is typically dressed in formal, dark clothing that conveys his stoic and authoritative presence. His composed demeanor, combined with his reserved yet commanding posture, gives him an air of quiet menace and confidence.

Seiji Matoba is calm, composed, and calculating, with an almost unnerving level of pragmatism. As the leader of the Matoba clan, he is single-minded in his pursuit of control over the supernatural world, viewing yōkai as tools to be used or threats to be destroyed. This utilitarian approach stands in stark contrast to Takashi Natsume’s empathetic philosophy, creating a natural tension between the two.

While Matoba exudes politeness and civility, his demeanor often conceals a cold, manipulative nature. He is capable of both subtle coercion and overt intimidation to achieve his goals, rarely allowing emotions to cloud his judgment. Despite his ruthless behavior, Matoba possesses a sharp intellect and an uncanny ability to identify the potential in others, which explains his persistent interest in Takashi.

Beneath his detached exterior lies a deep sense of duty to his clan, as well as a possible loneliness stemming from the burdens of his position. His interactions with Takashi hint at a begrudging respect for his abilities, though Matoba’s motivations remain ambiguous.

Matoba Clan Leadership: Seiji Matoba’s leadership of the Matoba clan establishes him as one of the most powerful figures in the exorcist world. The clan’s influence is unmatched, and Matoba’s authority commands the respect—and often fear—of both exorcists and yōkai alike.

Interest in Takashi Natsume: Matoba expresses an unusual and persistent interest in Takashi due to his extraordinary spiritual abilities and lineage as the grandson of Reiko Natsume. He frequently attempts to recruit Takashi into the Matoba clan, recognizing his potential as an asset. However, Takashi’s refusal to compromise his values puts them at odds.

Conflict with Takashi’s Ideals: Matoba’s approach to yōkai—viewing them as tools to be used or eliminated—serves as a stark contrast to Takashi’s compassionate philosophy. Their conflicting ideals form a central theme of the series, highlighting the tension between power, control, and understanding.

Manipulative Actions: Matoba is known for his underhanded tactics, often using his authority and cunning to manipulate others. His presence serves as a reminder of the darker side of the exorcist world, where power is often prioritized over morality.

• Takashi Natsume: Matoba’s relationship with Takashi is defined by intrigue and conflict. While Matoba admires Takashi’s immense spiritual abilities, he remains frustrated by Takashi’s refusal to adopt the Matoba clan’s methods. Their interactions underscore the ideological clash between Matoba’s pragmatic worldview and Takashi’s compassion for yōkai.

• Reiko Natsume: Though they never met, Matoba holds Reiko in high regard, acknowledging her unparalleled spiritual strength. His interest in Takashi stems largely from his connection to her legacy.

• The Matoba Clan: As the head of the Matoba clan, Seiji Matoba shoulders the burdens and responsibilities of maintaining his family’s power. His leadership is marked by authority, pragmatism, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to uphold the clan’s reputation.

• Yōkai: Matoba views yōkai as tools or enemies, rarely acknowledging their autonomy or emotions. His attitude toward them starkly contrasts with Takashi’s empathetic approach.

Seiji Matoba stands as a powerful and enigmatic figure in Natsume’s Book of Friends, embodying the more ruthless and pragmatic side of the exorcist world. As the leader of the Matoba clan, his actions and ideals challenge Takashi Natsume’s compassionate philosophy, forcing Takashi to reaffirm his values and resolve.

While Matoba’s interest in Takashi remains ambiguous, his presence adds tension and complexity to the narrative, highlighting the struggle between control and understanding when dealing with the supernatural. His character serves as a reminder of the moral dilemmas that exorcists face and the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs, even in the face of overwhelming power.