"Shadow and Bone": Breaking Down the 3 Orders of the Grisha and Their Powers

Updated on 3/21/2023 at 8:55 PM

Netflix's "Shadow and Bone" offers the chance to dive into a fully formed fantasy world — and like most good fantasy universes, it comes complete with tons of magic, as well as a fair number of elaborate names to remember. Starting with episode one, there is a lot to unpack about the universe — and if you're not familiar with Leigh Bardugo's novels, you'll probably find yourself wondering more about the Grisha that Alina finds herself drawn into.

While they possess incredible abilities, the Grisha aren't exactly magicians. Instead, they practice small science, meaning they are able to "manipulate matter at its most fundamental levels." The Grisha are divided into three orders — Corporalki, Etherealki, and Materialki — which are further broken down into specialized groups. If you have trouble spotting them on the show, a good indicator is what color kefta they're wearing, which signals their group. If you're looking for a refresher before watching the second season, which premieres on March 16 — or are just looking to learn more — read ahead as we break down each order and the powers the Grisha of "Shadow and Bone" possess.

Corporalki: The Order of the Living and the Dead

Corporalki typically wear red kefta, and their powers deal with the human body. The order is officially made up of Healers and Heartrenders, but Tailors are also included in this group.

Healers: Just as their name suggests, Healers usually use their powers to heal people, including fixing up a broken bone or healing a wound.
Heartrenders: Heartrenders' powers can manipulate a person's internal organs to the point of death, making them incredibly valuable.
Tailors: Tailors have the ability to change a person's physical appearance.

Etherealki: The Order of Summoners

Unlike the other two orders, the Etherealki are a bit more complex. They typically wear blue kefta and have the ability to manipulate natural elements such as air and water. This order is made up of Squallers, Inferni, and Tidemakers, but the order also includes the Sun Summoner (Alina) and Shadow Summoner (The Darkling).

Squallers: Squallers are able to manipulate the wind, as shown when they help Grisha cross the Fold by guiding the ship's sails.
Inferni: As evidenced by their name, Inferni are able to manipulate fire.
Tidemakers: Tidemakers are able to manipulate water, hence the "tide" in their name.

Materialki: The Order of Fabrikators

Materialki typically wear purple kefta and have the ability to manipulate composite material. The order is made up of Durasts and Alkemi.

Durasts: Durasts have the ability to manipulate solid objects, such as metal.
Alkemi: On the flip side, Alkemi typically deal with chemicals like blasting powders and poisons.