Sign in Blood

Sign in Blood was originally introduced in the Magic 2010 core set and was subsequently reprinted in the Magic 2013 set as part of Wizards of the Coast's strategy to provide consistent, efficient draw effects for black decks. The card serves as a staple of the color's philosophy, representing a transactional cost where the player exchanges life points for card advantage. Its mechanics highlight the fundamental design space of black magic, which prioritizes immediate resource gain over long-term stability.

The Magic 2013 illustration was rendered by artist Howard Lyon. Lyon moved away from the grim, macabre imagery often associated with blood-magic spells in favor of a more classical, painterly aesthetic that emphasizes the ritualistic and solemn nature of the cost. The artwork was well-received for its clean composition and atmospheric lighting, which helped integrate the card into the broader visual identity of the 2013 core set, a collection noted for its focus on refined card interactions and iconic reprints.