Forgotten Harvest - Morphing Faceless Menace

<h6 style="text-align: right;">(<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Empyrian Eagle" href="#" target="_blank">Empyrian Eagle</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> | Art by <a href="https://www.jaestudio.com/">Jason A. Engle</a>)</h6>
<h1>The Bird is the Word!</h1>
<p>Hello, and welcome back to another exciting edition of <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>, where I highlight the hyper-underplayed cards on EDHREC in 300 decks or less. This week's topic is all thanks to a recent visit to my LGS. A fellow patron was talking about their Esper Commander deck led by <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sharuum the Hegemon" href="#" target="_blank">Sharuum the Hegemon</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and its Bird subtheme. He said that he would much rather just play Azorius with <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Kangee, Aerie Keeper" href="#" target="_blank">Kangee, Aerie Keeper</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, but thought there wasn't enough support for a tribal Commander deck. I don't think he knew who he was talking to....</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Kangee, Aerie Keeper"></div></div>
<p>There are a few different things going on here with Kangee. Obviously, we're going to want to aim for Bird tribal, relying on some little-played gems to bring in some fun abilities. But there's also the use of feather counters to increase Kangee's avian buff. Turns out, there are a fair number of Bird-related cards that relate to counters. While most "counters matter" cards see way too much play to earn a spot in my articles (I'm looking at you, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Thrummingbird" href="#" target="_blank">Thrummingbird</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>), there are a few below that could use some extra love from deckbuilders. But first, let's get into those that help the tribe.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Birds of a Feather</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Soraya, the Falconer"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Keeper of the Nine Gales"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Crookclaw Elder"></div></div>
<p>First up, we have the original Bird lord, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Soraya, the Falconer" href="#" target="_blank">Soraya, the Falconer</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (215 decks). Since <em>Homelands</em>, she's been retconned to effect all Birds and not just Falcons. While I totally recognize that <em>Banding</em> is usually to be avoided like the <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Pox" href="#" target="_blank">plague</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, the intent here is to use her solely for the buff with the activated ability there only for those brave enough to travel back to 1995. Some of you may say that <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Favorable Winds" href="#" target="_blank">Favorable Winds</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is a better return on investment here, and you're probably right, but I like the flavor associated with Soraya, and I tend to prefer creature-based effects in tribal decks.</p>
<p><span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Keeper of the Nine Gales" href="#" target="_blank">Keeper of the Nine Gales</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> does a pretty good impression of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Tradewind Rider" href="#" target="_blank">Tradewind Rider</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, especially in a Bird tribal deck. There are a fair number of Bird token makers like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Migratory Route" href="#" target="_blank">Migratory Route</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Battle Screech" href="#" target="_blank">Battle Screech</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, so having some spare 1/1s around to help activate the Keeper's ability shouldn't be a problem. Access to white generally makes bounce and counter strategies less the "last resort" in Azorius decks, as white can <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Saltblast" href="#" target="_blank">blow up almost anything</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. But with the tribal restrictions and a lack of creatures that offer repeatable removal, this is a nice addition. The Keeper sees play currently in 297 decks.</p>
<p>Also from <em>Legions</em>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Crookclaw Elder" href="#" target="_blank">Crookclaw Elder</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> bridges the gap between the Bird and Wizard tribes, and sees play in 266 decks. The card draw option using your leftover Bird blockers is a great way to refuel your hand. This seems to be something that Birds are generally good at doing, whether through <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Airborne Aid" href="#" target="_blank">Airborne Aid</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> or using <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seaside Haven" href="#" target="_blank">Seaside Haven</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. I generally expect a full grip from this deck on any given turn. Also of note, there are enough Wizards in this deck to make the other ability possible, though with all of your creatures already in the air, it's more of a political tool to help opponents.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Glarecaster"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Skymark Roc"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Sawtooth Loon"></div></div>
<p>Next up, we have some of the oft-neglected Birds themselves, and first on that list is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Glarecaster" href="#" target="_blank">Glarecaster</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Currently in 218 decks on EDHREC, this birdie is the master of redirecting damage. While the ability is a little costly, the effect on the game can be quite significant. This is especially true when you're redirecting commander damage with a Voltron deck at the table. Based on the wording of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Glarecaster" href="#" target="_blank">Glarecaster</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, the damage isn't filtered through anything on redirect, and would still count toward reaching the magical 21 damage for your opponents.</p>
<p>As with most tribal decks, this one is going to care about attacking often, so adding in Birds that trigger effects when they enter combat seems appropriate. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Skymark Roc" href="#" target="_blank">Skymark Roc</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is just such a card with a useful effect. On attack, it can remove a chump blocker from a single combat, or shred a small token on the battlefield. It's in a reasonable 192 decks right now, as this kind of effect isn't very strong on it's own, but exactly what we're looking for in a Bird.</p>
<p>I've talked about <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sawtooth Loon" href="#" target="_blank">Sawtooth Loon</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> before when building <a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/forgotten-harvest-dromars-bounce-house/"><em>Dromar's Bounce House</em></a>, so you should already be familiar with its hand-filtering effect. Once again, it functions as another solid Bird with a good effect to add to the list. It's still neglected, in only 164 decks. Another Bird of note that helps with draw is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Raven Familiar" href="#" target="_blank">Raven Familiar</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> from <em>Urza's Legacy</em> (275 decks). One of the few blue cards with <em>Echo</em>, it's just one more toolbox Bird able to provide access to options.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Fly Like an Eagle</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Empyrean Eagle"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Sephara, Sky&#039;s Blade"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Unsettled Mariner"></div></div>
<p>Not all of our pro-Bird cards are going to care about creature type. Some only care that the creatures have wings. For instance, <em>Core Set 2020's</em> <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Empyrean Eagle" href="#" target="_blank">Empyrean Eagle</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> buffs all of our flyers for a very good rate. As the set is still fairly new, the Eagle only sees play in 59 decks right now, but I expect this number to climb swiftly! I think <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Kykar, Wind&#039;s Fury" href="#" target="_blank">Kykar, Wind&#039;s Fury</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> wouldn't mind the inclusion of this Eagle.</p>
<p>Also from <em>Core Set 2020</em>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sephara, Sky&#039;s Blade" href="#" target="_blank">Sephara, Sky&#039;s Blade</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> provides some much needed protection for our winged friends. This will come in handy during a <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Supreme Verdict" href="#" target="_blank">Supreme Verdict</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, for sure. She's also a great basher in her own right, adding some much-needed power to the field. Again, as <em>Core Set 2020</em> is still new, she only sees play in 217 decks at the moment. I'm less certain of her future, however, as she feels more like a part of the 99 than a commander. Maybe I can give her a deck of her own in a future article.</p>
<p>Then there's one of my favorite cards from <em>Modern Masters</em>: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Unsettled Mariner" href="#" target="_blank">Unsettled Mariner</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Seeing play in a measly 212 decks, this card is definitely in much need of some love. What I like most about the Mariner is that it specifies all permanents you control, not just creatures. That means that your opponent's <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Aura of Silence" href="#" target="_blank">Aura of Silence</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is going to cost a little more when trying to blow up your <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Cryptic Gateway" href="#" target="_blank">Cryptic Gateway</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Plus the card fits into any tribal-themed deck! Seriously, those playing <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sygg, River Guide" href="#" target="_blank">Sygg, River Guide</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> need to update their decklists.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Don't Counter Your Chickens Before They Hatch!</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Aetherstorm Roc"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Jötun Owl Keeper"></div></div>
<p>As I said above, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Kangee, Aerie Keeper" href="#" target="_blank">Kangee</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> not only has love for the feathered friends but can also play into counter synergies as well. I've included cards like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Karn&#039;s Bastion" href="#" target="_blank">Karn&#039;s Bastion</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Tezzeret&#039;s Gambit" href="#" target="_blank">Tezzeret&#039;s Gambit</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> to help <em>Proliferate</em> Kangee's feather counters. There're also Birds like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="High Sentinels of Arashin" href="#" target="_blank">High Sentinels of Arashin</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and tribal cards like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Soulcatchers&#039; Aerie" href="#" target="_blank">Soulcatchers&#039; Aerie</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> that love counters.</p>
<p>Another underplayed Bird that likes counters, this time of the energy variety, is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Aetherstorm Roc" href="#" target="_blank">Aetherstorm Roc</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Played in 270 decks, the Roc builds up energy whenever a creature hits the field on your side, then turns that energy into a +1/+1 counter and removal of a blocker on an attack. Referring to two different kinds of counters, this Bird definitely benefits from <em>Proliferate</em> effects.</p>
<p>Finally, providing some unexpected counter synergy, is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Jötun Owl Keeper" href="#" target="_blank">Jötun Owl Keeper</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (166 decks). One of my favorite cards from <em>Coldsnap</em>, the Owl Keeper builds up age counters using its <em>Cumulative Upkeep</em> trigger, and upon its death, gives you a Bird for each counter. While <em>Cumulative Upkeep</em> isn't very fun outside of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Braid of Fire" href="#" target="_blank">Braid of Fire</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, combining with <em>Proliferate</em> can help<em> </em>squeeze the most Bird tokens out of the card before its demise.</p>
<p>Alright, here's the deck!</p>
<div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="Kangee Bird Tribal" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards="[Commander]
*1 Kangee, Aerie Keeper
[/Commander]
[Creatures]
*1 Metallic Mimic
*1 Mindshrieker
*1 Pride of the Clouds
*1 Soulcatcher
*1 Thrummingbird
*1 Unsettled Mariner
*1 Adaptive Automaton
*1 Aven Mimeomancer
*1 Aven Mindcensor
*1 Cloudchaser Kestrel
*1 Empyrean Eagle
*1 Jotun Owl Keeper
*1 Keeper of the Nine Gales
*1 Lieutenant Kirtar
*1 Mirror Entity
*1 Nimble Obstructionist
*1 Raven Familiar
*1 Soraya, the Falconer
*1 Warden of Evos Isle
*1 Aetherstorm Roc
*1 Commander Eesha
*1 Emeria Angel
*1 High Sentinels of Arashin
*1 Ishai, Ojutai Dragonspeaker
*1 Sawtooth Loon
*1 Skymark Roc
*1 Thieving Magpie
*1 Coveted Peacock
*1 Gustcloak Savior
*1 Wingmate Roc
*1 Crookclaw Elder
*1 Glarecaster
*1 Sephara, Sky&#039;s Blade
[/Creatures]
[Instants]
*1 Path to Exile
*1 Cyclonic Rift
*1 Generous Gift
*1 Mirrorweave
*1 Ojutai&#039;s Command
*1 Return to Dust
[/Instants]
[Sorceries]
*1 Contentious Plan
*1 Harsh Mercy
*1 Airborne Aid
*1 Battle Screech
*1 Supreme Verdict
*1 Tezzeret&#039;s Gambit
*1 Migratory Route
*1 Austere Command
[/Sorceries]
[Artifacts]
*1 Sol Ring
*1 Azorius Signet
*1 Lightning Greaves
*1 Azorius Keyrune
*1 Commander&#039;s Sphere
*1 Herald&#039;s Horn
*1 Urza&#039;s Incubator
*1 Worn Powerstone
*1 Door of Destinies
*1 Cryptic Gateway
[/Artifacts]
[Enchantments]
*1 Soulcatchers&#039; Aerie
*1 Leyline of Anticipation
[/Enchantments]
[Lands]
*1 Adarkar Wastes
*1 Command Tower
*1 Flooded Strand
*1 Glacial Fortress
*1 Hallowed Fountain
*1 Karn&#039;s Bastion
*1 Sea of Clouds
*1 Seachrome Coast
*1 Seaside Haven
*1 Windbrisk Heights
*13 Island
*17 Plains
[/Lands]"></span></div>

<hr />
<h2>Gotta Fly!</h2>
<p>Well that about does it for this bird-brained deck on <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>. Unleash your questions, comments, and snide remarks in the comments section below. I'll be on there to talk about how just how far the mighty dinosaur hath fallen, and to convince you to play <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Unsettled Mariner" href="#" target="_blank">Unsettled Mariner</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> as often as possible! Let me know if you have any hyper-underplayed tribes that you think need some more love. Or, for that matter, any generally hyper-underplayed cards and strategies that you'd like me to talk about. I love suggestions from readers! See you all in two weeks.</p>
<p><a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/maxresdefault.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-36466" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/maxresdefault.jpg" alt="" width="546" height="307" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


Forgotten Harvest - Kangee Bird Tribal

<h6 style="text-align: right;">(<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Protection of the Hekma" href="#" target="_blank">Protection of the Hekma</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> | Art by <a href="http://www.ryanleeart.com/">Ryan Lee</a> )</h6>
<h1>Prologue</h1>
<p>Hello and welcome to another installment of <em>Lore Seeker, </em>an article series devoted to the legendary creatures to whom <em>Wizards of the Coast</em> forgot to give a story. I’ll guide you through each fragment that makes up a legendary creature and finally give them a little extra background love. This time around we’ll be highlighting <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Temmet, Vizier of Naktamun" href="#" target="_blank">Temmet, Vizier of Naktamun</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Temmet, Vizier of Naktamun"></div></div>
<hr />
<h1>Story Circle</h1>
<p>Temmet was the unofficial tour guide in Naktamun for the Gatewatch. Temmet was the first to encounter the Gatewatch when they escaped the wastes on the plane of Amonkhet. Temmet grew suspicious of the Gatewatch, noting their clothing and mannerisms as foreign to his city and way of life. He answered their questions and eventually treated them to an audience with <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Oketra the True" href="#" target="_blank">Oketra the True</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, the god of stability, order, and protection on Amonkhet. Temmet eventually confirmed that the members of the Gatewatch were not native to Amonkhet. Having discovered them in the embalming chambers, he attempted to have them restrained but ended up getting <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Mind Control" href="#" target="_blank">Mind Control</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>led by Jace.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Oketra the True"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Oketra&#039;s Monument"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Jace, Cunning Castaway"></div></div>
<p>He was a minor character, especially in the shadow of Nicol Bolas's schemes. The plane of Amonkhet was based on ancient Egyptian history, Temmet on King Tutankhamen. King Tut was one of the shortest-lived Pharaoh's in ancient Egypt, so it's fitting that Temmet made very little impact on the story at large... but what impact did he have before his 15 seconds of fame?</p>
<hr />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Card Analysis</h1>
<h2>Name:</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-36252 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/temName.jpg" alt="" width="507" height="84" /></p>
<p><strong>Vizier: </strong>title; highest official in ancient Egypt to serve the pharaoh, often appointed directly by the pharaoh.</p>
<p>Given this definition, it seems ol' King Tut went through a bit of a demotion in his translation to <em>MtG, </em>although when gods walk among their subjects, it should be expected. In Naktamun the viziers worked directly for the gods. Temmet is primarily the vizier of Oketra, but served other gods and their respective viziers. His position was one that was highly respected and revered.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Vizier of Many Faces"></div></div>
<hr />
<h2>Mana Cost//Color Identity:</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-36250 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/temCost.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="69" /></p>
<p><strong>White: </strong>White would be happiest in a utopian society where everyone shares and cooperates with one another.</p>
<p><strong>Blue: </strong>For blue, the purpose of life is to discover what you want and how to achieve it.</p>
<p>Temmet seemed well on his way to achieving the ultimate goal of a utopian society. He was in charge of the embalming process on Amonkhet, meaning he worked with the dead and performed many rituals. Amonkhet's natural magic brings the dead back to life as wild malevolent creatures. The cartouche system in the city harnessed the natural power of the plane and channeled it through a talisman. Attendant mummies put these cartouches on the dead in the embalming process, binding specific orders and tasks to the undead servants. If the denizens of a city are all indentured servants and programmed to cooperate, it makes a utopia easy! Temmet embodies form over function, utilitarianism to the utmost degree.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Embalmer&#039;s Tools"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Cartouche of Solidarity"></div></div>
<hr />
<h2>Art:</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-36255 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/temArt.jpg" alt="" width="571" height="418" /></p>
<p>King Tut was a very young and shortlived pharaoh in Egypt. In fact, he was mostly forgotten by the people of the time. He lived to around the age of 19, another correlation to Temmet, who is depicted to be around 16 years old. The story/legend of Tutankhamen rose in popularity only after his tomb was discovered: his chamber was mostly untouched by grave robbers, so the great number of artifacts and relics found gave the modern world a closer look at the ancient culture.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Desecrated Tomb"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Treasure Trove"></div></div>
<p>For this reason, when assembling Temmet's flavor-filled deck, I am including a large sub-theme of artifacts and Treasure. It will be a good representation of the massive trove discovered in King Tut's burial chamber while supplying our deck with plenty of meat to fill out its bones. (Well, perhaps 'bones' is the wrong word... its wrappings?) This will be an artifact-heavy deck, including a few combos to finish off the game and grind out value. I also wanted to include a package of Trap cards as a nod to the classic trope of the booby-trapped tomb.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="Traps and Treasure" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards="[Combo Pieces]
*1 Teshar, Ancestor&#039;s Apostle
*1 Scrap Trawler
*1 Krark-Clan Ironworks
*1 Myr Retriever
*1 Junk Diver
*1 Workshop Assistant
*1 Foundry Inspector
*1 Etherium Sculptor
[/Combo Pieces]
[Traditional Traps]
*1 Pit Trap
*1 Mindbreak Trap
*1 Arrow Volley Trap
*1 Whiplash Trap
[/Traditional Traps]
[Polymorph Traps]
*1 Pongify
*1 Rapid Hybridization
*1 Swan Song
[/Polymorph Traps]"></span></div>
<hr />
<h2>Type Line:</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-36254 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/temType.jpg" alt="" width="592" height="54" /></p>
<p>Naktamun is governed much like a church, Temmet performing many duties similar to a priest. Another card that portrays someone performing the embalming ritual is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Anointer Priest" href="#" target="_blank">Anointer Priest</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, which gives us a strategic direction for the deck. White likes gaining life and making a lot of small creatures, and if we're using lots of creatures in an artifact-heavy deck, we can take advantage of the abilities of one <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Teshar, Ancestor&#039;s Apostle" href="#" target="_blank">Teshar, Ancestor&#039;s Apostle</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Timed correctly, Teshar can create some crazy infinite loops: by sacrificing <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Myr Retriever" href="#" target="_blank">Myr Retriever</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Junk Diver" href="#" target="_blank">Junk Diver</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, and/or <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Workshop Assistant" href="#" target="_blank">Workshop Assistant</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> to a <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Krark-Clan Ironworks" href="#" target="_blank">Krark-Clan Ironworks</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, we can reclaim and cast these creatures an infinite number of times. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Etherium Sculptor" href="#" target="_blank">Etherium Sculptor</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and other cost-reducers can help guarantee the combo goes off smoothly. To join the <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Anointer Priest" href="#" target="_blank">Anointer Priest</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, we'll add the "Soul Sisters" like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Soul Warden" href="#" target="_blank">Soul Warden</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Soul&#039;s Attendant" href="#" target="_blank">Soul&#039;s Attendant</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> to our deck, generating infinite life as a result of this loop. That, however, is just a buffer for us to search for our real win condition: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Altar of the Brood" href="#" target="_blank">Altar of the Brood</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, which will mill our enemies to death as our creatures flit in and out of play!</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Anointer Priest"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Myr Retriever"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Altar of the Brood"></div></div>
<hr />
<h2>Rules Text:</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-36253 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/temRules.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="295" /></p>
<p>This card may not look like it has flavor text, but the mechanic of <em>Embalm</em> says a lot on its own. From this reminder text, we know that Temmet dies and is revived with Amonkhet's magic. The <em>Embalm</em> ability makes him a really interesting commander too. When Temmet dies, we can choose to put him into the graveyard instead of the command zone, circumventing a bit of commander tax. When <em>Embalm</em> is activated, the card is then exiled, giving us an opportunity to put him back into the command zone. From there, he'll only cost two more mana to recast, even though it'll be the third time we have had his likeness on the field! First cast costs two mana, then <em>Embalm</em> for five, cast again for four, and <em>Embalm</em> for five once more... this cycle of casting keeps him on the board for a longer period of time at a cheaper cost to us. On top of that, if Temmet becomes a token, his beginning-of-combat trigger can target himself. (The <em>Embalmed</em> token does not deal commander damage, however.)</p>
<hr />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">The Deck</h1>
<p>This deck is a strange combination of aggro and combo. In the early game, we'll create small tokens and use Temmet to get them through. In the mid game, we'll transition to more of a control deck. In the final stages of the game, we'll hopefully go off with Teshar. It's a weird spot to fill, so the best advice I can give is to spread the love. Attack everyone for little bits of damage; focus down Planeswalkers with your unblockable tokens, and gain some favor with the rest of the table until you have a chance to get to your combo. You will be playing pretty active rather than the usual reactivity of a deck in these colors.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="King Tut" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards="[Commander]
*1 Temmet, Vizier of Naktamun
[/Commander]
[Creatures]
*1 Artificer&#039;s Assistant
*1 Soul Warden
*1 Soul&#039;s Attendant
*1 Anointer Priest
*1 Etherium Sculptor
*1 Myr Retriever
*1 Myrsmith
*1 Riddlesmith
*1 Argivian Archaeologist
*1 Foundry Inspector
*1 Junk Diver
*1 Scrap Trawler
*1 Treasure Hunter
*1 Workshop Assistant
*1 Heliod, God of the Sun
*1 Teshar, Ancestor&#039;s Apostle
*1 Treasure Keeper
*1 Vedalken Archmage
*1 Vizier of Many Faces
*1 God-Eternal Oketra
*1 Stonehewer Giant
*1 Sun Titan
[/Creatures]
[Artifacts]
*1 Tormod&#039;s Crypt
*1 Altar of the Brood
*1 Flayer Husk
*1 Pyramid of the Pantheon
*1 Skullclamp
*1 Ancestral Blade
*1 Azorius Signet
*1 Cogworker&#039;s Puzzleknot
*1 Embalmer&#039;s Tools
*1 Nim Deathmantle
*1 Pit Trap
*1 Shrine of Loyal Legions
*1 Sunset Pyramid
*1 Talisman of Progress
*1 Desecrated Tomb
*1 Gate to the Afterlife
*1 Oketra&#039;s Monument
*1 Krark-Clan Ironworks
*1 Batterskull
*1 Scytheclaw
*1 God-Pharaoh&#039;s Gift
[/Artifacts]
[Sorceries]
*1 Curse of the Swine
*1 Wrath of God
*1 Phyrexian Rebirth
*1 Treasure Cruise
[/Sorceries]
[Instants]
*1 Enlightened Tutor
*1 Pongify
*1 Rapid Hybridization
*1 Swan Song
*1 Lazotep Plating
*1 Mindbreak Trap
*1 Arrow Volley Trap
*1 Whiplash Trap
[/Instants]
[Enchantments]
*1 Cartouche of Solidarity
*1 Legion&#039;s Landing
*1 Luminarch Ascension
*1 Smothering Tithe
*1 Thopter Spy Network
*1 Treasure Trove
*1 Mind Control
[/Enchantments]
[Planeswalker]
*1 Jace, Cunning Castaway
[/Planeswalker]
[Lands]
*1 Ancient Den
*1 Academy Ruins
*1 Ancient Tomb
*1 Buried Ruin
*1 Cradle of the Accursed
*1 Darksteel Citadel
*1 Glacial Fortress
*1 Hallowed Fountain
*1 Irrigated Farmland
*11 Island
*1 Moorland Haunt
*11 Plains
*1 Port Town
*1 Prairie Stream
*1 Sea of Clouds
*1 Seat of the Synod
[/Lands]"></span></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

<hr />
<h1>Epilogue</h1>
<p>I hope you enjoyed this micro history lesson of an article. I certainly know more about ancient Egypt than I did before writing it. This deck will flood the battlefield with artifacts and generate a ton of value. Once the engine is established, the deck will be hard to stop, and the Traps will create some fantastic "Gotcha!" moments that will generate stories that you and your friends will remember for years.</p>
<p>That’s it for this week! As always, let me know which legendary characters you’d like to see get the story spotlight in the future!</p>


Lore Seeker - A Pharaoh's Tomb

Forgotten Harvest - Zedruu Land Grant

The Knowledge Pool - Niv-Mizzet, Parun

<h6 style="text-align: right;">(<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Muldrotha, the Gravetide" href="#" target="_blank">Muldrotha, the Gravetide</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> | Art by <a href="https://www.jasonrainville.com/">Jason Rainville</a>)</h6>
<h1>Such a Chimichanga!</h1>
<p>Another two weeks have passed, which means it's time for <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>. This time, I'm focusing all my hyper-underplayed skills on tackling another request from a reader, and I have to say this one was a bit of a challenge! A big thank you to @rowenwolff for daring me to take on the ever-popular commander <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Muldrotha, the Gravetide" href="#" target="_blank">Muldrotha, the Gravetide</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> paired with a Voltron package.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Muldrotha, the Gravetide"></div></div>
<p>I know this may sound unconventional, but as many of you know from my <a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/forgotten-harvest-mono-red-voltron/">article on Kurkesh</a>, unconventional is what we're all about here at <em>Forgotten Harvest!</em> As with any Voltron-style deck, the name of the game is going to be granting evasion and packing on mass buffs to our commander. The key will be abusing Muldrotha's recursion ability to turn her into a real chimichanga turn after turn.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-35259 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/giphy-3.gif" alt="" width="320" height="168" /></p>
<p>While it's very tempting for a Voltron to focus on a particular card type like artifacts or enchantments, Muldrotha benefits most from a balanced approach. With optimized diversity in our permanent types, we are allowed more recursion each turn, inevitably leading to a bigger commander.</p>
<p>Another contributing factor in deck design is prioritizing those cards that have a built-in sacrifice effect, so they can then be recast and re-buff our commander. We can use slots for <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Claws of Gix" href="#" target="_blank">Claws of Gix</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>-type cards to sacrifice our permanents and recast them if absolutely necessary, but on the whole, I opted instead for more self-contained sacrificers, peppering in only a few additional cards to help get things in the bin. You may find that a different balance works for you. As always, I encourage you to build your own version of this deck using the cards you enjoy tapping and untapping.</p>
<p>Now, let's see how a Muldrotha Voltron deck actually works.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive, and Dodge</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Flight Spellbomb"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Illuminated Wings"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Shielding Plax"></div></div>
<p>Some of my first inclusions were the Spellbombs from <em>Scars of Mirrodin</em>. The least-played of the three is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Flight Spellbomb" href="#" target="_blank">Flight Spellbomb</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, coming in at 133 decks. My research here revealed some fairly limited options for granting evasion while still fitting Muldrotha's theme, so flying is about the best that can be hoped for here. Another instance of this, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Illuminated Wings" href="#" target="_blank">Illuminated Wings</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, sees play in only 8 decks, and also draws you a card when sacrificed. I'm still torn on the amount of evasion to include, and I might need to go back and add more options, even if they're not on-theme. Let me know your thoughts on this in the comments, especially if you give the deck a try.</p>
<p>Providing some safety for our juggernaut is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Shielding Plax" href="#" target="_blank">Shielding Plax</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Played in 294 decks, this hexproof-granting enchantment also replaces itself, making for some great hijinks when combined with a sacrifice outlet (see <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Greater Harvester" href="#" target="_blank">Greater Harvester</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> below). I think the protective nature of this enchantment is something Muldrotha can greatly benefit from, as she makes for a pretty big target.</p>
<p>Though it doesn't count as an underplayed card, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Plaxmanta" href="#" target="_blank">Plaxmanta</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is another option for protecting our commander. While the flash is a bit of a "non-bo" with Muldrotha, I still see value in being able to cast <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Plaxmanta" href="#" target="_blank">Plaxmanta</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, before combat but after buffs, to keep her safe in the red zone from the likes of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Condemn" href="#" target="_blank">Condemn</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and other combat tricks. And there's no way I'm spending any green mana on <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Plaxmanta" href="#" target="_blank">Plaxmanta</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, so it's coming back turn after turn.</p>
<hr />
<h2>+3/+3 For Days</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Seal of Strength"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Llanowar Augur"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Aven Augur"></div></div>
<p>I don't know what it is about this color combination, but I kept running into pump effects based on sacrifice which give +3/+3 until end of turn. The simplest of these is the classic <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seal of Strength" href="#" target="_blank">Seal of Strength</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Seen in only 36 decks, the repeatable nature of this card when combined with our commander can mean some big combat phases for us. I've also included <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seal of Doom" href="#" target="_blank">Seal of Doom</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seal of Removal" href="#" target="_blank">Seal of Removal</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> to help remove pesky blockers, but those cards already get enough love in other decks.</p>
<p>When @rowanwolff first proposed the deck, the card <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Llanowar Augur" href="#" target="_blank">Llanowar Augur</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (57 decks) was mentioned as a good inclusion. And yes, this card is an all-star! Much like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seal of Strength" href="#" target="_blank">Seal of Strength</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, this card does its best impression of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Giant Growth" href="#" target="_blank">Giant Growth</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> on the way to the bin, but it also grants a very relevant trample ability as well.</p>
<p>I liked the idea of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Llanowar Augur" href="#" target="_blank">Llanowar Augur</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> so much, in fact, that I also opted to include the blue card from the Augur cycle in <em>Future Sight</em>: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Aven Augur" href="#" target="_blank">Aven Augur</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. It sees play in even fewer decks (only 21), but it can help repeatedly clear the way for our commander to get through. This whole cycle is great when mixed with recursion, and these cards are very underplayed right now.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Cunning"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Briarhorn"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Afiya Grove"></div></div>
<p><span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Cunning" href="#" target="_blank">Cunning</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, probably my favorite find for this theme, only sees play in 18 decks right now. The Aura seems tailor-made for this kind of deck. It pumps our baddie +3/+3, sticks around until after combat, then drops off only to be cast again. While I'll admit this card would be even better if I had gone in the Enchantress direction with Muldrotha, I still think it has a good home here, essentially functioning as a second <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Seal of Strength" href="#" target="_blank">Seal of Strength</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>.</p>
<p>The <em>Evoke</em> mechanic plays great with Muldrotha, as can be seen from her page on EDHREC. Of course <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Mulldrifter" href="#" target="_blank">Mulldrifter</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Shriekmaw" href="#" target="_blank">Shriekmaw</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> made the deck, but I also included the hyper-underplayed <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Briarhorn" href="#" target="_blank">Briarhorn</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, despite seeing play in only 122 decks. A great option to <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Giant Growth" href="#" target="_blank">Giant Growth</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> each turn, I can see its numbers going up in the near future, especially with all the Elemental tribal cards coming out in <em>Core 2020</em>. I can't wait for those!</p>
<p>From the ranks of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Llanowar Reborn" href="#" target="_blank">Llanowar Reborn</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Earthen Arms" href="#" target="_blank">Earthen Arms</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Afiya Grove" href="#" target="_blank">Afiya Grove</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> does something I've rarely seen on another card: it's a noncreature that enters with +1/+1 counters on it. The enchantment slowly doles out its three counters to the creature(s) of your choice, sacrificing itself when its counters are spent. Only seeing play in 51 decks, I'm surprised that more <em>Proliferate</em> decks don't run this card.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Supporting Creatures</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Greater Harvester"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Wood Sage"></div></div>
<p>We've covered a lot of the buffs for our commander, but haven't really gotten into the support cards which help to glue the deck together. First on my list here is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Greater Harvester" href="#" target="_blank">Greater Harvester</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. This card, in 35 decks, just needs some sweet evasion to regularly get through and start removing opponents' resources. And the "downside" is actually a bonus in this deck, where we can use Muldrotha to recast all those sacrificed permanents again. There's nothing sweeter than binning <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Stitcher&#039;s Supplier" href="#" target="_blank">Stitcher&#039;s Supplier</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> each turn to keep the Harvester alive while watching the graveyard fill up with all kinds of options.</p>
<p>While we're on the subject of self-mill, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Wood Sage" href="#" target="_blank">Wood Sage</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is definitely a pet card of mine. It allows you to dig for that one spell you need, and also fills the graveyard with the scraps. With Muldrotha on the field, a whiff from <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Wood Sage" href="#" target="_blank">Wood Sage</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> can actually be a blessing! It's only used in 86 decks right now, but <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Tamiyo, Collector of Tales" href="#" target="_blank">Tamiyo, Collector of Tales</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> seems to think the ability is very relevant.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Avenging Druid"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Fungal Shambler"></div></div>
<p>Another option for self-mill that can be tough to fit into a deck is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Avenging Druid" href="#" target="_blank">Avenging Druid</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. I've been looking for a home for this card for a while, a deck where I don't really care what cards go into the bin. But, despite only seeing play in 88 decks, this looks to be a perfect home for it. The Druid is an excellent target for an early-game <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Flight Spellbomb" href="#" target="_blank">Flight Spellbomb</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, or you can feel free to swing in willy-nilly knowing that Muldrotha can bring it back onto the battlefield later on.</p>
<p>Finally, as with any Voltron deck, it's important to include some Plan B options should our commander become incapacitated. My first pick for this role is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Vorosh, the Hunter" href="#" target="_blank">Vorosh, the Hunter</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. With the option to grow its power and toughness by six each time it connects with an opponent, coupled with native flying, the Dragon is a great second option to Muldrotha. But for a far more underplayed option, please consider <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Fungal Shambler" href="#" target="_blank">Fungal Shambler</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (21 decks). This loamy devil gives you a great trigger on connection, and has trample to help force that combat damage through. While it will put your opponents on a longer clock, it may be advantageous to keep the key ability granting you so much card advantage and all your buffs separated.</p>
<p>Enough jank, here's the full list:</p>
<p><div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="Muldrotha Voltron" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards=""></span></div></p>
<p>[Commander]<br />
*1 Muldrotha, the Gravetide<br />
[/Commander]</p>
<p>[Creatures]<br />
*1 Llanowar Augur<br />
*1 Siren Stormtamer<br />
*1 Stitcher's Supplier<br />
*1 Looter il-Kor<br />
*1 Magus of the Bazaar<br />
*1 Plaxmanta<br />
*1 Sakura-Tribe Elder<br />
*1 Wood Sage<br />
*1 Avenging Druid<br />
*1 Bone Shredder<br />
*1 Eternal Witness<br />
*1 Fleshbag Marauder<br />
*1 Scribe of the Mindful<br />
*1 Aura Thief<br />
*1 Aven Augur<br />
*1 Briarhorn<br />
*1 Phyrexian Metamorph<br />
*1 Venser, Shaper Savant<br />
*1 Brood Butcher<br />
*1 Greater Harvester<br />
*1 Mulldrifter<br />
*1 River Kelpie<br />
*1 Shriekmaw<br />
*1 Verdurous Gearhulk<br />
*1 Fungal Shambler<br />
*1 Vorosh, the Hunter<br />
*1 Nylea's Colossus<br />
[/Creatures]</p>
<p>[Instants]<br />
*1 Assassin's Trophy<br />
*1 Sultai Charm<br />
*1 Moonlight Bargain<br />
*1 Status // Statue<br />
*1 Windgrace's Judgment<br />
[/Instants]</p>
<p>[Artifacts]<br />
*1 Claws of Gix<br />
*1 Expedition Map<br />
*1 Flight Spellbomb<br />
*1 Horizon Spellbomb<br />
*1 Nihil Spellbomb<br />
*1 Wayfarer's Bauble<br />
*1 Dimir Signet<br />
*1 Golgari Signet<br />
*1 Simic Signet<br />
*1 Chromatic Lantern<br />
*1 Commander's Sphere<br />
[/Artifacts]</p>
<p>[Enchantments]<br />
*1 Kaya's Ghostform<br />
*1 Seal of Removal<br />
*1 Seal of Strength<br />
*1 Afiya Grove<br />
*1 Animate Dead<br />
*1 Cunning<br />
*1 Ground Seal<br />
*1 Illuminated Wings<br />
*1 Seal of Primordium<br />
*1 Aether Barrier<br />
*1 Hadana's Climb<br />
*1 Pernicious Deed<br />
*1 Reality Acid<br />
*1 Seal of Doom<br />
*1 Shielding Plax<br />
*1 Deadbridge Chant<br />
[/Enchantments]</p>
<p>[Planeswalkers]<br />
*1 Tamiyo, Collector of Tales<br />
[/Planeswalkers]</p>
<p>[Lands]<br />
*1 Barren Moor<br />
*1 Blighted Woodland<br />
*1 Breeding Pool<br />
*1 Drowned Catacomb<br />
*1 Evolving Wilds<br />
*9 Forest<br />
*1 Hinterland Harbor<br />
*8 Island<br />
*1 Lonely Sandbar<br />
*1 Misty Rainforest<br />
*1 Overgrown Tomb<br />
*1 Polluted Delta<br />
*1 Prismatic Vista<br />
*6 Swamp<br />
*1 Terramorphic Expanse<br />
*1 Tranquil Thicket<br />
*1 Verdant Catacombs<br />
*1 Watery Grave<br />
*1 Woodland Cemetery<br />
[/Lands]</p>
<p>[/Deck]</p>

<hr />
<h2>Such a Non-Traditionalist</h2>
<p>Thanks for reading this edition of <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>. I hope you enjoyed my crazy take on a fairly straightforward commander. What are some other non-traditional directions to take popular commanders? Are there any hyper-underplayed graveyard-based cards you'd like to see featured? Lastly, I have a question for you, a question I've been asking myself recently (unrelated to <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Muldrotha, the Gravetide" href="#" target="_blank">Muldrotha, the Gravetide</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>): what are some commanders that haven't really found their archetype yet? I absolutely love suggestions from readers, and try to fit them in as soon as I can. Let me hear your thoughts in the comments section. See you all next time!</p>


Forgotten Harvest - Muldrotha Voltron

Conditions Allow - Taniwha

The Knowledge Pool - Breya, Etherium Shaper

<h6 style="text-align: right;">(<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Evermind" href="#" target="_blank">Evermind</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> | Art by <a href="https://gatherer.wizards.com/Pages/Search/Default.aspx?action=advanced&amp;artist=[%22Matt%20Thompson%22]">Matt Thompson</a>)</h6>
<h1>Deckbuilding Postbellum</h1>
<p>Hello everyone, and welcome back to another edition of <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>, where I highlight the most hyper-underplayed cards in EDH. For today's article, we're going to take a look at one of the new commanders from <em>War of the Spark</em>. First, however, I should discuss my policy when digesting a new set.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-33747 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Spaghetti-Policy-Always-Sunny.gif" alt="" width="325" height="183" /></p>
<p>During each spoiler season, I keep an eye out for the missing pieces to complete decks on my "wish list." These are cards or commanders that will complete a deck idea I have and make it a legitimate build instead of just a sorry attempt at a deck. I mean, my decks are already full of jank, but at least it's cohesive jank. The hype gets especially heavy for me when tribal themes are spoiled, as a bunch of these ideas are founded in creature types. Anyway, when preview season for <em>War of the Spark</em> began, I had my eye out for any of these missing pieces, ready to pounce.</p>
<p><span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Ilharg, the Raze-Boar" href="#" target="_blank">Ilharg, the Raze-Boar</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> was the first such piece to emerge, but I'm saving that deck for two weeks from now. The second meatball to roll out of <em>WAR</em> was <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="God-Eternal Kefnet" href="#" target="_blank">God-Eternal Kefnet</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="God-Eternal Kefnet"></div></div>
<p>My goodness, this commander is wonderful! He plays so well with blue's spellslinger tendencies, especially if you can control the rate of card draw. Additionally, he's very hard to get rid of, slipping back into the library if removed. I knew this birdie would be a popular commander and would likely get paired up with the plethora of extra-turn spells that always crop up whenever folks talk about great blue cards. However, I saw him commanding a different kind of spellslinger deck.</p>
<hr />
<h2>On Top of Spaghetti / All Covered with Cheese...</h2>
<p>The deck I'm talking about is Arcane and Spirit tribal. From all the way back in <em>Kamigawa</em> block, these two themes go hand-in-hand. The <em>Splice onto Arcane</em> cards work especially well with <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="God-Eternal Kefnet" href="#" target="_blank">God-Eternal Kefnet</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, as you can splice cards onto the copy generated by Kefnet, including the actual card you copied. For example, let's say I draw <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dampen Thought" href="#" target="_blank">Dampen Thought</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (105 decks on EDHREC) and reveal it using Kefnet's ability. I get a copy of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dampen Thought" href="#" target="_blank">Dampen Thought</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> that I can cast while the real one goes to my hand. I want to splice the real <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dampen Thought" href="#" target="_blank">Dampen Thought</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> in my hand onto the copy, so I reveal it (again), and then pay the full cost of the spell, reduced by two generic mana (the last bit of Kefnet's ability), which makes it UU to mill eight cards while losing no card advantage. The next time I draw an Arcane spell, I can splice <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dampen Thought" href="#" target="_blank">Dampen Thought</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> onto the copy again with no card loss.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Dampen Thought"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Consuming Vortex"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Lifted by Clouds"></div></div>
<p>Now, I would love to get into each and every underplayed Arcane card, both those that splice and those that can be spliced upon. But nearly every blue card of this spell type is underplayed, so instead I'm going to hit some highlights. There isn't really a clear theme among the effects caused by these Arcane cards, and as the mechanic only appeared in <em>Kamigawa</em> block, there isn't a huge pool to draw from. But one common theme that I've seen is that these spells tend to target creatures a lot! As such, despite being a spellslinger deck devoid of pump spells, the main win condition becomes combat.</p>
<p>Some Arcane spells, like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Consuming Vortex" href="#" target="_blank">Consuming Vortex</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (142 decks) and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Psychic Puppetry" href="#" target="_blank">Psychic Puppetry</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (80 decks), can be used to remove blockers and clear a path. Others, like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Lifted by Clouds" href="#" target="_blank">Lifted by Clouds</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (20 decks) and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Veil of Secrecy" href="#" target="_blank">Veil of Secrecy</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (158 decks), provide evasion to your creatures to get those attacks through (<a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/forgotten-harvest-block-party-with-virtus-and-gorm/">Virtus and Gorm</a> from two weeks ago would be so proud). And if a more permanent form of removal is required, I've got <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dismiss into Dream" href="#" target="_blank">Dismiss into Dream</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> in the deck to make all that targeting magic lethal. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Reweave" href="#" target="_blank">Reweave</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, in 270 decks, also gives some great spot removal for any kind of permanent on its own, assuming you keep on casting/splicing it.</p>
<hr />
<h2>I Lost My Poor Meatball / When Somebody Sneezed</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Teller of Tales"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Cloudhoof Kirin"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="The Unspeakable"></div></div>
<p>In addition to providing Arcane spells, <em>Kamigawa</em> block also brought us a series of Spirits that care about them. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Teller of Tales" href="#" target="_blank">Teller of Tales</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (53 decks) and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Guardian of Solitude" href="#" target="_blank">Guardian of Solitude</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (35 decks) are both a continuation of the themes above, removing blockers or providing evasion whenever a Spirit or Arcane spell is cast. Similarly, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Kiri-Onna" href="#" target="_blank">Kiri-Onna</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, in 122 decks, can help clear the field with bounce effects and can be repeatably cast. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Quillmane Baku" href="#" target="_blank">Quillmane Baku</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> provides even more tapping shenanigans, while only seeing play in 33 decks.</p>
<p>An alternative wincon in this deck is mill, though it's the more difficult option. The presence of <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Dampen Thought" href="#" target="_blank">Dampen Thought</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is bolstered by <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Cloudhoof Kirin" href="#" target="_blank">Cloudhoof Kirin</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, found in only 138 decks. Given the card draw in the deck, and the duplication of spells thanks to <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="God-Eternal Kefnet" href="#" target="_blank">God-Eternal Kefnet</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, all these abilities should be triggering regularly.</p>
<p>The uber-mono-blue Spirit from the same block, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="The Unspeakable" href="#" target="_blank">The Unspeakable</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, also makes the deck, despite only being in 206 decklists. This also includes the three spells that help summon him directly out of the deck: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Reach Through Mists" href="#" target="_blank">Reach Through Mists</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Peer Through Depths" href="#" target="_blank">Peer Through Depths</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sift Through Sands" href="#" target="_blank">Sift Through Sands</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Given the amount of library manipulation and draw in this deck, I expect the alternate summoning route to be a regular occurrence.</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Lantern Spirit"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Soulsworn Spirit"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Supreme Phantom"></div></div>
<p>As the modern <em>Magic</em> player knows, not all great Spirits come from Kamigawa. The plane of Innistrad has supplied its fair share of Spirit spells. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Lantern Spirit" href="#" target="_blank">Lantern Spirit</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> is currently only in 45 decks, but it fits into the theme of wanting to repeatedly cast Spirit spells, and its self-bounce can pay off big in this deck. When its cost is reduced thanks to a card like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Urza&#039;s Incubator" href="#" target="_blank">Urza&#039;s Incubator</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, this card can be a real all-star!</p>
<p>Since we're playing Spirits repeatedly, we might as well throw in <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Nebelgast Herald" href="#" target="_blank">Nebelgast Herald</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (190 decks). Again, we have a phantasm that helps tap down opposing creatures that gets better as we play more and more Spirit spells. Tapping down a creature isn't the same as a full neutralization, and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Soulsworn Spirit" href="#" target="_blank">Soulsworn Spirit</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> can provide that option while keeping to our theme. It's a wonder that it only sees play in 75 decks.</p>
<p>Finally, we have the true Spirit tribal cards: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Battleground Geist" href="#" target="_blank">Battleground Geist</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Supreme Phantom" href="#" target="_blank">Supreme Phantom</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. This duo will help pump our team, making sure that our attacks count for more. Given its fairly weak power level overall, this deck is going to win primarily on tempo and explosive turns, and these cards are going to play a big role in keeping up the pressure. They're in 194 and 133 decks, respectively.</p>
<p>Let's take a look at the final deck, shall we?</p>
<p><div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="Splicey Meatballs" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards=""></span></div><br />
[Commander]<br />
*1 God-Eternal Kefnet<br />
[/Commander]<br />
[Creatures]<br />
*1 Mausoleum Wanderer<br />
*1 Departed Deckhand<br />
*1 Ghost-Lit Warder<br />
*1 Guardian of Solitude<br />
*1 Kaijin of the Vanishing Touch<br />
*1 Mindshrieker<br />
*1 Rattlechains<br />
*1 Supreme Phantom<br />
*1 Callous Deceiver<br />
*1 Drift of Phantasms<br />
*1 Lantern Spirit<br />
*1 Latch Seeker<br />
*1 Nebelgast Herald<br />
*1 Niblis of the Breath<br />
*1 Soulsworn Spirit<br />
*1 Battleground Geist<br />
*1 Cloudhoof Kirin<br />
*1 Kiri-Onna<br />
*1 Quillmane Baku<br />
*1 Soul Seizer<br />
*1 Sturmgeist<br />
*1 Teller of Tales<br />
*1 Keiga, the Tide Star<br />
*1 Sire of the Storm<br />
*1 The Unspeakable<br />
[/Creatures]<br />
[Instants]<br />
*1 Evermind<br />
*1 Reach Through Mists<br />
*1 Consuming Vortex<br />
*1 Cyclonic Rift<br />
*1 Dampen Thought<br />
*1 Disrupting Shoal<br />
*1 Peer Through Depths<br />
*1 Psychic Puppetry<br />
*1 Stream of Consciousness<br />
*1 Veil of Secrecy<br />
*1 Lifted by Clouds<br />
*1 Murmurs from Beyond<br />
*1 Sift Through Sands<br />
*1 Toils of Night and Day<br />
*1 Shifting Borders<br />
*1 Reweave<br />
[/Instants]<br />
[Sorceries]<br />
*1 Eye of Nowhere<br />
*1 Ideas Unbound<br />
*1 Eerie Procession<br />
*1 Heed the Mists<br />
*1 Petals of Insight<br />
*1 Ribbons of the Reikai<br />
[/Sorceries]<br />
[Artifacts]<br />
*1 Library of Leng<br />
*1 Sensei's Divining Top<br />
*1 Sol Ring<br />
*1 Baku Altar<br />
*1 Long-Forgotten Gohei<br />
*1 Urza's Incubator<br />
*1 Lux Cannon<br />
*1 Primal Amulet<br />
*1 Gilded Lotus<br />
[/Artifacts]<br />
[Enchantments]<br />
*1 Imprisoned in the Moon<br />
*1 Rhystic Study<br />
*1 Jace's Sanctum<br />
*1 Future Sight<br />
*1 The Mirari Conjecture<br />
*1 Dismiss into Dream<br />
[/Enchantments]<br />
[Planeswalkers]<br />
*1 Jace, the Mind Sculptor<br />
[/Planeswalkers]<br />
[Lands]<br />
*1 Desert of the Mindful<br />
*1 Evolving Wilds<br />
*1 Halimar Depths<br />
*26 Island<br />
*1 Lonely Sandbar<br />
*1 Moonring Island<br />
*1 Nykthos, Shrine to Nyx<br />
*1 Remote Isle<br />
*1 Soldevi Excavations<br />
*1 Teferi's Isle<br />
*1 Terramorphic Expanse<br />
[/Lands]<br />
[/Deck]</p>

<hr />
<h2>Time to Roll Out!</h2>
<p>That about does it for this edition of <em>Forgotten Harvest</em>. If you have any questions, comments, or snide remarks, you can find me in the comments section below. I'll be down there to talk about how I keep building Spirit tribal or how <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Evermind" href="#" target="_blank">Evermind</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> would make a really great name for a band. Let me know about the decks on your wish list that are just waiting for a missing card or commander to become a reality, or any hyper-underplayed cards you'd like to see featured on this series in the future. In the meantime, I'll be working out the kinks in this little red-green number that's all set to abuse <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Ilharg, the Raze-Boar" href="#" target="_blank">Ilharg, the Raze-Boar</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. See you later!</p>


Forgotten Harvest - Splicey Meatballs

<h6 style="text-align: right;">(<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Narset, Enlightened Master" href="#" target="_blank">Narset, Enlightened Master</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> | Art by <a href="http://www.magali-villeneuve.com/">Magali Villeneuve</a>)</h6>
<h1>Just a Pinch</h1>
<p>In a <a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/edhrecast-ep54-the-saltiest-cards-in-edh-ft-bennie-smith/">recent episode of the EDHRECast</a>, co-hosts Joey, Matt, and Dana sat down with Star City Games writer <a href="http://www.starcitygames.com/articles/tags/BennieSmith">Bennie Smith</a> to discuss... salt. No, not the delicious spice that supplies iodide (a necessary nutrient); I mean <em>salt</em>: the feeling you get when the <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Mizzix of the Izmagnus" href="#" target="_blank">Mizzix of the Izmagnus</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> player combos out a turn before your victory; the emotion inspired by a <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Zur, the Enchanter" href="#" target="_blank">Zur, the Enchanter</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> pillowfort deck that you just <em>can't</em> get through to; the prickling sensation of a player who just resolved <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Armageddon" href="#" target="_blank">Armageddon</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>... with no win condition in hand (or in mind).</p>
<p>It's easy for me to recall specific moments where a card made me salty, but it is much more challenging to judge whether a single card is inherently "salty". How do you quantify a card's "salt potential"? The answer, it turns out, is "with lots of help."</p>
<p>This April, we at EDHREC presented a survey to you, our lovely readers, listeners, and users. In the span of 3 days, you contributed over <em>500,000</em> votes on the saltiness of various cards, rated on a scale from 0 (sodium-free) to 4 (drinking a bottle of soy sauce while swimming in the Dead Sea). With all that data, we created a <a href="https://edhrec.com/top/salt">Top 100 list</a> of the most salt-inducing cards in Commander.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-32905 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/salty-cards.png" alt="" width="614" height="362" /></p>
<p>In browsing this list, clear patterns emerge of what cards are most likely to conjure up some good-old NaCl. Sitting pretty at #1 is <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Stasis" href="#" target="_blank">Stasis</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, a low-effort method of making players skip their untap steps. Stasis is the namesake of an entire genre of decks that prevent you from using your resources, and some of its best friends populate the list: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Winter Orb" href="#" target="_blank">Winter Orb</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (#3), <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Static Orb" href="#" target="_blank">Static Orb</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (#11), <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Hokori, Dust Drinker" href="#" target="_blank">Hokori, Dust Drinker</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (#26), and so on. Living at the #2 slot is the tried-and-true land destruction spell <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Armageddon" href="#" target="_blank">Armageddon</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Similar cards that destroy, bounce, exile, or otherwise Do Bad Things to your lands make up a whopping <em>20%</em> of the Top 100 list. Smaller categories represented in the list include: cards that say "can't" (such as <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Iona, Shield of Emeria" href="#" target="_blank">Iona, Shield of Emeria</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>), spells that result in multiple extra turns (à la <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Expropriate" href="#" target="_blank">Expropriate</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>), notable win-conditions (like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Craterhoof Behemoth" href="#" target="_blank">Craterhoof Behemoth</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>), and frightening commanders (e.g. <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Narset, Enlightened Master" href="#" target="_blank">Narset, Enlightened Master</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>).</p>
<hr />
<h2>Saltcrusted Steps to Building Decks</h2>
<p>Empowered with this new salt-flavored knowledge, how can we take advantage of it to reduce or– Keftnet forbid– increase, the saltiness of our decks? The wizards of the EDHREC team have you covered, with what we're calling the Salt Early Warning System*.</p>
<p>* Note: no one is actually calling it the Salt Early Warning System.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-32904 aligncenter" src="https://articles.edhrec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cyclonic-salt.png" alt="" width="209" height="360" /></p>
<p>If you make a visit to the card page for one of our salty friends like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Cyclonic Rift" href="#" target="_blank">Cyclonic Rift</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, you'll notice a little salt shaker icon at the bottom-left corner of the card image, warning you that this card is likely to cause salt. This icon will follow the card no matter where you view it on the site. The salt shaker also appears on lists of decks (like the "Recent Decks" section on <a href="https://edhrec.com/commanders/atraxa-praetors-voice">Atraxa's page</a>.) As exemplified by <a href="https://edhrec.com/listofdecks/scion-of-the-ur-dragon">Scion of the Ur-Dragon's page</a>, you can even sort lists of decks by their salt score, to find the lowest- or highest-sodium ways to play that commander.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Shake It Till You Make It</h2>
<p>Now that we know saltiest cards on the block, it's only fair that we put our salt where our mouth is. With assistance from the Top 100 list, let's try to make the saltiest deck we can manage. In the spirit of my budget deckbuilding series, <em><a href="https://articles.edhrec.com/author/walkingatlas/">Low Market</a>,</em> I'm also going to cap myself at $100.00 – this is notably higher than the average cost of a Low Market deck, but salt doesn't come cheap in this economy.</p>
<p>There are approximately 20 viable commanders in our Top 100, when you exclude banned cards like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Leovold, Emissary of Trest" href="#" target="_blank">Leovold, Emissary of Trest</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Of these, a scant <a href="https://scryfall.com/search?q=%28%22Iona%2C+Shield+of+Emeria%22+OR+%22Vorinclex%2C+Voice+of+Hunger%22+OR+%22Jin-Gitaxias%2C+Core+Augur%22+OR+%22Hokori%2C+Dust+Drinker%22+OR+%22Grand+Arbiter+Augustin+IV%22+OR+%22Narset%2C+Enlightened+Master%22+OR+%22Gaddock+Teeg%22+OR+%22Emrakul%2C+the+Promised+End%22+OR+%22Ulamog%2C+the+Ceaseless+Hunger%22+OR+%22Atraxa%2C+Praetors%27+Voice%22+OR+%22Elesh+Norn%2C+Grand+Cenobite%22+OR+%22Ulamog%2C+the+Infinite+Gyre%22+OR+%22Zur+the+Enchanter%22+OR+%22Kozilek%2C+Butcher+of+Truth%22+OR+%22Avacyn%2C+Angel+of+Hope%22+OR+%22Linvala%2C+Keeper+of+Silence%22+OR+%22Derevi%2C+Empyrial+Tactician%22%29+USD%3C10">six Legendary Creatures</a> can be found for under $10.00 USD (at time of writing). Two options immediately jump out at me: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Narset, Enlightened Master" href="#" target="_blank">Narset, Enlightened Master</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> (#36), and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Derevi, Empyrial Tactician" href="#" target="_blank">Derevi, Empyrial Tactician</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>. Both of these commanders offer many colors to work with, and play into at least one major theme we identified in our most salty cards. Narset is focused on free casts of noncreature spells, while also being a great card advantage engine when <em>someone</em>–not going to name any names–has blown up everyone's lands. Derevi, meanwhile, is a means to untap permanents that might, <em>theoretically</em>, be locked down by <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Stasis" href="#" target="_blank">Stasis</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> effects. Since I am a bit more familiar with her operation, I've decided to tackle Narset Land Destruction.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Sunder"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Narset, Enlightened Master"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Global Ruin"></div></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>That makes our gameplan pretty straightforward: stick Narset, cripple our opponents through land destruction, and find some method of killing them. I selected a healthy quantity of land destruction spells from our salt list: note that some of these cards also destroy creatures, so we'll need means of protecting Narset.</p>
<p>Since Narset's main jam is casting noncreature spells, I wanted a noncreature method of closing out the game, and landed on Aura-based Voltron. This choice is, in part, thematically driven: I've killed a few people with Narset after stacking a few Auras on her, and those folks were <em>definitely</em> salty afterwards. Being in white gets us Auras that grant indestructible, addressing our above need, and also gives us several convenient cards that tutor for Auras such as <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Three Dreams" href="#" target="_blank">Three Dreams</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>.</p>
<p>With the advent of commanders like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="The Gitrog Monster" href="#" target="_blank">The Gitrog Monster</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, and more recently <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Lord Windgrace" href="#" target="_blank">Lord Windgrace</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, there are far too many decks that actively <em>want</em> lands in their graveyard. We're compensating for this strategy with a meaty collection of budget graveyard hate effects: <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Silent Gravestone" href="#" target="_blank">Silent Gravestone</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Sentinel Totem" href="#" target="_blank">Sentinel Totem</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>, and <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="Scavenger Grounds" href="#" target="_blank">Scavenger Grounds</a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div class="edhrecp__cards"><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Silent Gravestone"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Sentinel Totem"></div><div class="edhrecp__card-container" name="Scavenger Grounds"></div></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The remainder of our deck is filled out with standard Narset fare. We've stuffed in a dozen mana rocks and reduced our land count a hair, since lands are useless when exiled by our commander. A couple topdeck manipulation spells like <span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="" href="#" target="_blank"></a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span>Brainstorm<span class="edhrecp__link"><a class="edhrecp__link-a" content="" href="#" target="_blank"></a><span class="edhrecp__link-image"></span></span> prevent high-CMC spells from living in our hand, and lay the foundation for explosive attacks. Finally, we've a handful of straightforward card draw spells for when Narset is unavailable for help with card advantage.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Checking Out</h2>
<div class="edhrecp__deck mtgh"><span class="edhrecp__deck-s" name="High-Salt Narset (By Themes)" site="edhrec" archidekt_link="" cards="[Commander]
* Narset, Enlightened Master
[/Commander]
[Land Destruction and Hate]
* Armageddon
* Boom // Bust
* Cataclysm
* Catastrophe
* Decree of Annihilation
* Epicenter
* Global Ruin
* Impending Disaster
* Obliterate
* Rising Waters
* Ruination
* Sunder
[/Land Destruction]
[Aura Subtheme]
* Aqueous Form
* Auramancer&#039;s Guise
* Battle Mastery
* Eldrazi Conscription
* Faith&#039;s Fetters
* Flickerform
* Gift of Immortality
* Indestructibility
* On Serra&#039;s Wings
* Open the Armory
* Overwhelming Splendor
* Plea for Guidance
* Shielded by Faith
* Spirit Mantle
* Three Dreams
* Unquestioned Authority
[/Aura Subtheme]
[Topdeck]
* Contingency Plan
* Dream Cache
* Foresee
* Long-Term Plans
* Mystical Tutor
* Penance
* Taigam&#039;s Scheming
* Tamiyo&#039;s Epiphany
[/Topdeck]
[Card Advantage]
* Brainstorm
* Deep Analysis
* Frantic Search
* Precognitive Perception
* Treasure Cruise
* Ugin&#039;s Insight
[/Card Advantage]
[Ramp]
* Azorius Signet
* Boros Signet
* Darksteel Ingot
* Dreamstone Hedron
* Expedition Map
* Firemind Vessel
* Gilded Lotus
* Izzet Signet
* Jeskai Banner
* Mana Geode
* Mind Stone
* Unstable Obelisk
[/Ramp]
[Removal, Hate, Countermagic]
* Arcane Denial
* Divine Reckoning
* Insidious Will
* Oblation
* Sentinel Totem
* Silent Gravestone
* Torpor Orb
* Winds of Rath
* Winter Orb
[/Removal, Hate, Countermagic]
[Recursion]
* Bond of Insight
[/Recursion]
[Lands]
*5 Plains
*5 Island
*5 Mountain
* Desert of the Fervent
* Desert of the Mindful
* Desert of the True
* Desolate Lighthouse
* Evolving Wilds
* Gateway Plaza
* Grixis Panorama
* Irrigated Farmland
* Mystic Monastery
* Rogue&#039;s Passage
* Rupture Spire
* Scavenger Grounds
* Slayers&#039; Stronghold
* Sunhome, Fortress of the Legion
* Terramorphic Expanse
* Transguild Promenade
* Vivid Crag
* Vivid Creek
* Vivid Meadow
* Warped Landscape
[/Lands]"></span></div>

<hr />
<h2>When the Salt Settles</h2>
<p>At the end of the day, our High-Salt Narset Land Destruction deck checks out for approximately $100.00 by TCG Mid pricing, and our oh-so-critical salt score is 115.96. You can also find this decklist on <a href="https://archidekt.com/decks/72300#EDHREC_-_High-Salt_Narset">Archidekt</a>. In a departure from the norm, I sincerely hope that <em>as few of you as possible</em> build this salt-inducing deck. If you'd like to tell me about the saltiest deck you own or have faced, track me down on Twitter, <a>@Walking_Atlas</a>, or leave a comment below. Until next time, here's hoping that our new features get you your daily recommended allowance of sodium.</p>
