What happens if I flash Iona in response to a counter spell?

Asked by Eldaver 7 years ago

My buddy and I are playing EDH and he goes to counter one of my spells with Cancel. In response this, utilizing Vedalken Orrery, I flash in Iona, Shield of Emeria to declare blue. We weren't entirely sure how this would resolve, and decided to prolong the game by simply allowing the counter to resolve. For future reference however, was this the correct procedure? And why?

Neotrup says... Accepted answer #1

Yes, that was correct. To cast a spell is to put it on the stack, choose targets, modes, etc., and pay the cost. This process cannot be interrupted by other players, but may be reversed if something about the current board state makes players realize the casting is illegal (such as noticing you can't actually choose the target or pay the cost). Iona, Shield of Emeria prevents opponents from casting spells of the corresponding color, nothing more. Once a spell has already been cast Iona has no effect on it resolving.

December 19, 2016 12:41 a.m.