Brandon Sanderson's revered novella, "Children of the Nameless," a narrative deeply embedded in the lore of "Magic: The Gathering" and celebrated by its fandom, is finally receiving a tangible release. What was once freely accessible online is now transformed into an exclusive collector's piece, commanding a price tag of $250, marking a significant shift in its availability.
Originally offered without charge on the official "Magic" website in 2018, this novella was a labor of love for Sanderson, a dedicated enthusiast of the card game, who eagerly embraced the opportunity to contribute to the "Magic" universe. Years later, Subterranean Press is unveiling a lavish print edition, marking the story's debut as a physical book, limited to 1,500 individually numbered copies, each personally autographed by Sanderson. The decision to market a previously free narrative as an expensive collector's item is noteworthy, yet a portion of the sales revenue will benefit the Child's Play charity. This premium edition also showcases six full-color internal artworks and cover art by Cynthia Sheppard, celebrated for her contributions to iconic "Magic" cards.
Narrated by Sanderson as a tribute to the game that has profoundly impacted him, "Children of the Nameless" unfolds in the macabre setting of Innistrad. The plot centers on Tacenda, a young woman whose protective magical abilities abruptly falter, leading to the devastation of her village. Driven by sorrow, she confronts Davriel, a enigmatic nobleman linked to demonic entities, only to uncover a more intricate and disturbing truth, as they collaborate to unravel a sinister enigma.
This initiative not only offers fans a unique opportunity to own a piece of "Magic" history but also underscores the enduring appeal and value of compelling storytelling, bridging the gap between digital accessibility and the exclusivity of physical collectibles, all while contributing to a charitable cause.