Can I still choose to pay life with Sylvan Library ?

Asked by Iron_Cube 4 years ago

Playing commander, I have Sylvan Library + Underrealm Lich + Vilis, Broker of Blood in play. Let's also pretend I have Dredge cards in the graveyard like Life from the Loam .

First, on each of my draw I can choose to either dredge or draw a card (wich will be replaced by the Lich's effect). On my draw step I decide to dredge a card, then Sylvan Library allowing me to "draw" 2 more cards (again the replacement effect applies). I look at the top 3 cards, put one in my hand, others in the graveyard (twice).

Question : Usually I don't have to pay 4 life per card to keep in my hand since I haven't "drawn" any, but can I still choose to do it if I want, because I have Vilis, Broker of Blood I would lose 8 life and "draw" 8 cards ? (use the Lich's replacement effect 8 times)

I think I could but I'm not sure. I'm confused.

Gidgetimer says... Accepted answer #1

You kinda answered your own question, but don't seem to want to believe yourself. You drew no cards this turn and so there are no cards to choose for the "pay 4 life or put the card on top of your library". This means that you do not have to pay life to keep cards put into your hand by Underrealm Lich . But it also means that you can not pay the life.

August 30, 2019 8:27 p.m.