Bestial BloodlineHow it works & interactions with other cards

Unpacking the Ability

Bestial Bloodline is a two-mana enchantment that grants the enchanted creature a +2/+2 stat increase. Unlike many other Auras that are lost forever once the creature dies, this card features an activated ability that costs five mana to return it from your graveyard to your hand. This ability can only be activated while the card is physically in the graveyard.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast Bestial Bloodline, you must choose a target creature on the battlefield. If that target is legal upon resolution, the Aura enters the battlefield attached to it, and the creature immediately gains +2/+2. If the creature leaves the battlefield, the Aura is put into your graveyard. From there, you can pay four generic and one green mana at any time you have priority to return it to your hand, allowing you to cast it again later.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is assuming the +2/+2 bonus comes from +1/+1 counters. Bestial Bloodline provides a static continuous effect, not counters, so it does not interact with effects that modify counter placement. Additionally, remember that returning the card from the graveyard to your hand is an activated ability that uses the stack and can be responded to by opponents.

Strategy and Timing

This card is best used in decks that need to maintain board presence or trigger 'power matters' abilities. Since you can recur it, don't be afraid to put it on a creature that might be targeted by removal. It serves as a mana sink in the late game, ensuring that every creature you draw can become a substantial threat.

Interaction examples

Triggering Power Requirements

Garruk's Uprising

If you control a creature with 2 power and Garruk's Uprising is on the battlefield, casting Bestial Bloodline on that creature will raise its power to 4. While this won't trigger the 'enters' ability of the Uprising (since the creature was already on the battlefield), it ensures your creature gains trample and helps future creatures you cast trigger the draw effect.

Static Buffs vs. Counters

Hardened Scales

If you enchant a creature while Hardened Scales is on the battlefield, Bestial Bloodline still only provides +2/+2. This is because Hardened Scales specifically looks for +1/+1 counters being placed, whereas Bestial Bloodline provides a static stat increase that does not involve counters at all.

Recursive Value

If your enchanted creature is destroyed by a spell, Bestial Bloodline goes to the graveyard. During your next turn, you can pay 4G to return Bestial Bloodline to your hand. You can then immediately cast it on a new creature, effectively bypassing the 'card disadvantage' usually associated with Auras.