They need a certain kind of lineage to be able to. One that ties them to beings outside of the mortal realm, like angels, demons, Seelies...

[ Which makes it even stranger that humans can just pick up abilities through study instead of relying solely on weapons and machinery. ]

So you're saying they're instructional how-to books and teachers in magical disciplines in your world?

[ Now it's his turn to be colored surprised. ]

Maybe I can teach you simple transfer of matter then. Even eight year-old warlocks can manage a spell like that.