Syr Joshua and Syr SaxonHow it works & interactions with other cards

What the Card Does

This card features the Double team mechanic, which triggers when it attacks. If it isn't a token, you create a copy of it in your hand and both cards lose Double team. Its unique static ability specifically overrides the legend rule, but only if you control exactly two permanents with this specific name. Furthermore, once you have multiple copies, the 'other' copies grant each other battle cry, providing a significant boost to your attacking forces.

Resolving the Interaction Step by Step

First, you cast Syr Joshua and Syr Saxon. Once you attack with this creature, the Double team ability triggers. As the ability resolves, you create a duplicate card in your hand. You can then cast that second copy. Normally, the legend rule would force you to put one into the graveyard, but because this card states the legend rule doesn't apply when you control exactly two, both remain on the battlefield. Finally, because you have two, each one sees the other and grants it battle cry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most important detail is the word 'exactly.' If you manage to create a third copy through other cloning effects, the legend rule immediately applies again because you no longer control exactly two. In that case, you would have to choose one to keep and put the others into the graveyard. Also, remember that Double team only triggers if the creature is not a token; if you use an effect to create a token copy, that token will not generate a new card in your hand when it attacks.

When to Play It

Syr Joshua and Syr Saxon are best utilized in aggressive Selesnya decks that want to go wide. By doubling themselves, they ensure you have a resilient board state that can survive single-target removal. They are particularly effective when paired with small mana-producing creatures who can benefit from the battle cry triggers, turning utility creatures into genuine combat threats.

Interaction examples

The Power of Battle Cry

Llanowar Elves

If you control two copies of Syr Joshua and Syr Saxon and attack with them alongside a Llanowar Elves, each Knight grants the other battle cry. This results in two battle cry triggers. When these resolve, your Llanowar Elves will receive +1/+0 twice, becoming a 3/1 creature for the duration of the combat phase.

Boosting Your Mana Dorks

Birds of Paradise

When you attack with a Birds of Paradise and your two Syr Joshua and Syr Saxon, the battle cry abilities will trigger. Even though Birds of Paradise usually has 0 power, the dual battle cry triggers will increase its power to 2. This allows you to chip in for flying damage while your opponent is focused on blocking the legendary knights.