Legendborn combines two systems of magic in its protagonist; Bree is both a Rootcrafter and a Bloodcrafter. These systems are based in historical occult traditions: the European grimoire tradition as well as the oral traditions of Black rootwork. The systems are distinguished by the language and practices they use—both in Deonn’s novel and her source materials.

The system of magic that The Order of the Round Table uses is inspired by grimoires (books of magic) that can be traced back to medieval and renaissance alchemists. Famous grimoires, like Henry Cornelius Agrippa’s Occult Philosophy, include blood magic that summons demons. This is similar to how Davis uses blood magic to open Gates for Shadowborn with the intent of starting Camlann—the war to end all wars.

The focus on the elements and pentacles (five-pointed stars) in the grimoire tradition is also reflected in the Order. The latter defines magic through five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and aether—or “quintessence”—which, according to Sel’s readings of the Order’s “gramarye[s]” (275), or grimoires, “cannot be created or destroyed, only infused into a body or manipulated into a temporary mass” (276). This element is most effectively directed by Merlins, like Sel, who “are the Order’s sorcerers” (80) and part demon (part incubus, like Merlin).