Master ApothecaryHow it works & interactions with other cards

Damage Prevention on Demand

Master Apothecary features an activated ability that costs nothing but tapping an untapped Cleric you control. Unlike many activated abilities, this does not have the tap symbol in its cost, meaning you can tap Master Apothecary itself the very turn it enters the battlefield. Each time you activate this ability, you create a shield that prevents the next 2 damage that would be dealt to a target of your choice.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you announce the ability and choose a target, such as a creature, planeswalker, or player. Next, you pay the cost by tapping one untapped Cleric you control. Once the ability resolves, it creates a prevention effect that lingers for the rest of the turn. The next time that target would be dealt damage, up to 2 of that damage is simply ignored. If the target is dealt less than 2 damage, the remaining protection persists for the next instance of damage later in the turn.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake is forgetting that damage prevention is not the same as gaining life or increasing toughness. If a source says 'damage can't be prevented,' Master Apothecary's ability will have no effect. Additionally, you must tap the Cleric as a cost; you cannot tap a Cleric that is already tapped to pay for the ability. Note that Roaming Throne does not double this ability because it is an activated ability, not a triggered one.

Strategic Timing

Wait until your opponent commits to their damage-based spells or blockers before activating this ability. Since you can tap any Cleric, you can use creatures that are already being declared as attackers or blockers to pay the cost, provided they are still untapped. This allows you to surprise opponents who expect to trade creatures in combat.

Interaction examples

Shielding the Golem

Solemn Simulacrum

Your opponent casts a spell to deal 2 damage to your Solemn Simulacrum. In response, you tap Master Apothecary to activate its own ability, targeting Solemn Simulacrum. When the damage spell resolves, the 2 damage is prevented, and your Golem stays on the battlefield to continue searching for lands or drawing cards later.

The Golem Cleric

Roaming Throne

If Roaming Throne enters the battlefield and you choose 'Cleric' as its type, it becomes a Cleric in addition to being a Golem. You can now tap Roaming Throne to pay for Master Apothecary's ability. While Roaming Throne's triggered ability doubling won't apply to the Apothecary's activated ability, the Throne itself becomes a versatile tool for fuel.