Narset's RebukeHow it works & interactions with other cards

What It Does

Narset's Rebuke performs three distinct actions during its resolution. First, it deals 5 damage to a single target creature. Second, it adds three mana to your mana pool: one Blue, one Red, and one White. Finally, it creates a replacement effect that lasts until the end of the turn; if the targeted creature would die for any reason, it is exiled instead of being put into the graveyard.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast Narset's Rebuke, you must choose a target creature. Upon resolution, the 5 damage is dealt first. Immediately after, you add {U}{R}{W} to your mana pool. This mana is added during the resolution of the spell, meaning you can use it to cast spells or activate abilities once the current spell finishes resolving and a player receives priority. The exile clause is a continuous effect that tracks the creature for the rest of the turn, even if the damage from this spell wasn't the thing that eventually killed it.

Common Mistakes

A frequent error is assuming you get the mana even if the target becomes illegal. If the target creature leaves the battlefield or gains protection from red before Narset's Rebuke resolves, the entire spell is removed from the stack and none of its effects happen—you will not get the {U}{R}{W}. Additionally, remember that the mana added will vanish as the current phase or step ends, so you must use it quickly.

Strategic Timing

Because this spell adds mana, it is best used during your main phase to help chain into other spells, or during an opponent's turn to fuel further interaction. The exile effect is particularly potent against 'dies' triggers or recursion strategies, making it a great answer to creatures that usually don't stay dead.

Interaction examples

Chaining Spells

Big Score

After casting Narset's Rebuke to deal 5 damage to a creature, you receive {U}{R}{W}. You can then use the {R} from that pool plus three other mana to cast Big Score. This allows you to remove a threat and immediately refill your hand and generate Treasure tokens, effectively using the Rebuke as a bridge to your next big play.

Beating Indestructible

Akroma's Will

If an opponent casts Akroma's Will and chooses the mode giving their creatures indestructible, Narset's Rebuke will still resolve and add {U}{R}{W} to your pool, but the 5 damage will not destroy the creature. However, if that creature's toughness is reduced to 0 by another effect later that turn, the replacement effect from Narset's Rebuke will still ensure the creature is exiled instead of dying.