Abe no Seimei is based on the historic figure of the same name, a legendary onmyouji of the Heian Era. Said to preside over the systems of divination, the calendar, astronomy and time-keeping in his position as the chief court astronomer, he was fiercely trusted by nobles of the time and considered a genius for his magical ability. At the same time, he was considered to be a sorceror of black magic, said to be extremely knowledgable about forbidden arts, using hexes to kill people and manipulation techniques that could control ayakashi and other demons.