Tataru TaruHow it works & interactions with other cards

A Friendly Exchange

When Tataru Taru enters the battlefield, you draw a card immediately. At the same time, a target opponent is given the option to draw a card as well. While giving an opponent resources might seem risky, the 'Scions' Secretary' ability turns this generosity into a tactical advantage by rewarding you with a Treasure token if they accept the offer on your turn.

The Logistics of Scions' Secretary

The second ability specifically watches for opponents drawing cards when it is not their turn. If an opponent draws a card during your turn or another player's turn, Tataru Taru triggers to create a tapped Treasure token. Keep in mind that this ability is limited; it triggers only once each turn, regardless of how many cards your opponents draw or how many different opponents draw them.

Targeting and Timing

Because the first ability requires a 'target opponent,' you must choose that target as the ability is put onto the stack. If that opponent gains Hexproof or leaves the game before the ability resolves, the entire ability fails. In such a case, you will not draw your card even though the effect says 'you draw a card' first. Always ensure your target is valid to ensure you get your resources.

When to Deploy the Advisor

Tataru Taru is best played when you have ways to force or encourage opponents to draw cards on your turn. Since the Treasure created enters the battlefield tapped, you won't be able to use it immediately for mana. Planning your turns a step ahead allows you to use those Treasures on subsequent turns to cast larger spells or activate abilities.

Interaction examples

The Basic Entry

Tataru TaruTreasure

You cast Tataru Taru during your main phase. Upon entering, you target an opponent. You draw a card, and the opponent chooses to draw a card. Since it is your turn (and thus not the opponent's turn), Tataru Taru's second ability triggers because an opponent drew a card. You create a tapped Treasure token.

Taxing the Spells

Tataru TaruEsper SentinelTreasure

With both creatures on the battlefield, an opponent casts a noncreature spell on your turn. Esper Sentinel triggers, and the opponent declines to pay the tax, allowing you to draw a card. Later that same turn, if that opponent uses an instant to draw a card, Tataru Taru's Scions' Secretary will trigger, granting you a tapped Treasure token because the draw occurred outside that opponent's turn.

Fixing Your Mana

Tataru TaruOrnithopter of Paradise

You use Ornithopter of Paradise to produce white mana to help cast Tataru Taru. If you already triggered Tataru Taru's Treasure-generating ability this turn, playing another card that forces an opponent to draw will not produce a second Treasure. The 'once each turn' restriction is global for that specific permanent's instance.