{"ops":[{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg, River Guide — Azorius Merfolk Tempo-Control / Tap-Engine Combo"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Power Level:"},{"insert":" High-Power Casual / Focused Tribal Engine\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Estimated CEPS:"},{"insert":" 82/100\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Upgrade Ceiling:"},{"insert":" 87/100\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Salt Level:"},{"insert":" Moderate to High — 3/5\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pilot Difficulty:"},{"insert":" 4/5\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Threat Window:"},{"insert":" Turns 4–6\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Win Window:"},{"insert":" Turns 6–8\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Infinite Combos:"},{"insert":" Yes — conditional three-card "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" lines\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Hard Locks:"},{"insert":" Conditional and board-dependent through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":" or "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Win Conditions:"},{"insert":" Evasive Merfolk combat, "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Akroma’s Will"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" loops and denial engines\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Primary Bottleneck:"},{"insert":" Preserving battlefield texture through board wipes and recognising when value must become a closing line\nCEPS Snapshot"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Category | Score"},{"attributes":{"table":"1"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Identity and strategic cohesion"},{"attributes":{"table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10/10"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"2"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mana, tempo and curve"},{"attributes":{"table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"9/12"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"3"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Card advantage and resource engines"},{"attributes":{"table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10/12"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"4"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Consistency, redundancy and floor"},{"attributes":{"table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"11/14"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"5"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Interaction and disruption"},{"attributes":{"table":"6"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10/12"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"6"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Resilience and recovery"},{"attributes":{"table":"7"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"7/12"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"7"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Win conditions and closing power"},{"attributes":{"table":"8"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10/12"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"8"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Speed and threat window"},{"attributes":{"table":"9"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6/8"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"9"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mana base reliability"},{"attributes":{"table":"10"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6/6"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"10"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Meta fit and flexibility"},{"attributes":{"table":"11"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"3/4"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"11"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Total"},{"attributes":{"table":"12"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"82/100"},{"attributes":{"align":"right","table":"12"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deck Overview"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron is an Azorius Merfolk tempo-control deck built around evasive tribal pressure, combat-based card advantage, repeatable tap effects, untap engines, protection and compact combo pivots.\nIt is not a generic Azorius goodstuff deck.\nIt is not a conventional draw-go control deck.\nIt is also not an all-in combo deck that keeps taking mulligans until it finds one specific three-card line.\nThe deck begins as a functional Merfolk strategy. It develops inexpensive creatures, improves them through lord effects, enables islandwalk and attacks through otherwise difficult boards. Once those attacks begin connecting, cards such as "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Bident of Thassa"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Reconnaissance Mission"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"insert":" convert combat into sustained card flow.\nThe second layer appears when tapping creatures becomes a resource. "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":" allow the same Merfolk to contribute to several different stages of the turn cycle.\nThe final layer is the unfair pivot. A developed board can suddenly become:\nan infinite token engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an infinite mana engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an infinite mill line;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":" lockdown;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a repeatable counterspell shield;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an extra-turn chain;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"or a lethal combat step."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck’s central sequence is:\nestablish functional mana;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"deploy a small Merfolk board;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"resolve one meaningful draw, token or tap engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protect the creatures that actually matter;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use the entire turn cycle instead of only the main phase;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"identify the missing engine piece;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tutor for the bottleneck rather than the flashiest card;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"pivot into pressure, denial, combo or a finisher;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"end the game before the table is allowed to reset."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron does not need the largest battlefield.\nIt needs the battlefield on which every Merfolk has more than one job.\nWhy Sygg?"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"insert":" is the tactical commander of the deck.\nHe is not the primary card-advantage engine, the largest attacker or a combo piece that must be cast in every game.\nHe performs five more subtle roles:\nhe protects key Merfolk from targeted interaction;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"he allows important attackers to pass creatures of the chosen colour;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"he makes combat significantly harder for opponents to calculate;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"he forces removal to be used while the Sygg player is tapped low;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"he allows the deck to commit to the battlefield without becoming completely exposed."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The most important Sygg targets are usually:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":" when an extra-turn line is ready;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":" when it is powering an engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":" when it is protecting the stack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"insert":" when it is maintaining card flow;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":" or a lord when combat is becoming lethal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"insert":" when an Alarm line depends on it;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" before a finishing activation."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg should not be cast automatically on turn two.\nA turn-two Sygg with no meaningful creature to protect is simply a visible commander.\nA later Sygg with open white and blue mana can represent protection, unblockability, political leverage and a major tempo loss for anyone attempting targeted removal.\nThe correct question is not:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Can I cast Sygg?"},{"insert":"\nThe correct question is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Does casting Sygg make my current battlefield materially harder to disrupt?"},{"insert":"\nCore Identity"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron is built on six main pillars:\nevasive tribal pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"combat-based card advantage;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap and untap engine value;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wizard utility and tutor precision;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"compact combo and denial pivots;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protection and tactical interaction."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"1. Evasive Tribal Pressure"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The first layer is traditional Merfolk combat.\nThe primary lord package is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lord of Atlantis"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Master of the Pearl Trident"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Sovereign"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Reejerey"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Patchwork Banner"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"These effects turn inexpensive utility creatures and 1/1 tokens into legitimate attackers.\nThe islandwalk package currently consists primarily of:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tidal Warrior"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tide Shaper"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lord of Atlantis"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Master of the Pearl Trident"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Sovereign"},{"insert":" provides an additional way to make one important Merfolk unblockable. This is particularly useful for:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a creature that must connect for combat draw;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an attacker carrying lethal damage after a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" activation."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":" strengthens this package in two different ways. It adds another low-cost anthem effect and untaps a Merfolk during the end step, allowing an attacker or engine creature to work again after combat.\nThe objective is not to attack every opponent equally.\nThe objective is to attack the player who offers the safest connection and convert that combat into:\ncards;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"stolen artifacts;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"commander pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a future Prophets line;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"or the removal of a player who can disrupt the engine."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"2. Combat-Based Card Advantage"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck does not want to stop applying pressure in order to refill its hand.\nIt wants successful pressure to become the refill.\nThe primary draw engines are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Bident of Thassa"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Reconnaissance Mission"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Emperor Mihail II"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Distant Melody"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Bident of Thassa"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Reconnaissance Mission"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"insert":" reward creatures that deal combat damage.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"insert":" is the highest-ceiling draw engine. It rewards both Merfolk entering and Merfolk attacking, meaning token production and combat can create cards simultaneously.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"insert":" provides reliable tribal value while also improving the durability of the surrounding Merfolk board.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Emperor Mihail II"},{"insert":" gives the deck access to additional Merfolk from the top of the library and rewards maintaining a high tribal density.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Distant Melody"},{"insert":" is the burst refill. It is excellent when the board is established and poor when the deck is rebuilding from nothing. It should normally be treated as a reward for successful development rather than an early setup spell.\nThe deck’s draw package has one important consequence:\nOnce a combat-draw engine is active, it is often unnecessary to deploy every creature from the hand.\nAttack with the existing board, draw additional resources and retain creatures for rebuilding after a sweeper.\n3. Tap and Untap Engine Value"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is the defining mechanical identity of Razorfin Squadron.\nThe main tap and untap pieces are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A Merfolk in this deck can perform several jobs during one turn cycle.\nIt can:\nattack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"trigger combat draw;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"become untapped by "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap for mana through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"insert":" or "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap a permanent through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"mill through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"trigger "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"generate a token through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"become untapped again through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"contribute to "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"insert":"."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The most important card in this layer is "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":".\nEvery time Schoolmaster becomes tapped, it creates another Merfolk Wizard token. That token can then contribute to:\ncombat;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" loop."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":" gives the fair version of this system additional efficiency. It can untap Schoolmaster, Seahunter or another utility Merfolk during the end step, allowing another activation before passing the turn.\nThe deck is therefore not played only during its own main phases.\nIts real unit of measurement is the entire multiplayer turn cycle.\n4. Wizard Utility and Tutor Precision"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The Wizard package gives the deck access to specific tools without abandoning the Merfolk identity.\nThe main Wizards are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sigil Tracer"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" have changeling, so they are Wizards and Merfolk in every zone. They can therefore be found through both the Merfolk and Wizard tutor packages.\nThe Wizard tutors are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Step Through"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vedalken Aethermage"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Their target should depend on the current problem.\nStrong targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":" for token and combo development;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":" against spell-heavy tables;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"insert":" against a critical ability;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"insert":" for combat or tempo;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"insert":" for pressure and stack protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"insert":" for long-game card flow;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"insert":" for an Alarm outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" when a wide board needs a finisher;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":" when combat access is ready."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"insert":" turns this package into more than a tutor toolbox. It gives many Wizards additional material and allows counters to become cards later.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sigil Tracer"},{"insert":" offers technical long-game play by copying important instants or sorceries. It is not always the fastest card, but its ceiling increases dramatically when the deck has spare Wizards and mana.\n5. Compact Combo and Denial Pivots"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck contains genuine infinite combinations, but most pieces remain useful outside those combinations.\nThe central combo card is "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":".\nThe correct mental model is not one fixed line.\nThe correct model is:\na creature that generates material when tapped;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a free or repeatable tap outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an untap trigger;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a payoff that ends the game or prevents opponents from acting."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The principal Alarm lines are:\nStonybrook Schoolmaster + Intruder Alarm + Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The sequence is:\ntap Schoolmaster through Drowner;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"target a player to mill one card;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Schoolmaster creates a Merfolk token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the token entering triggers Intruder Alarm;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"all creatures untap;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"repeat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This produces:\narbitrarily many Merfolk tokens;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"arbitrarily large mill;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"arbitrarily many creature-entering triggers."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster + Intruder Alarm + Paradise Mantle"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The sequence is:\nequip Schoolmaster with Paradise Mantle;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap it for mana;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Schoolmaster creates a token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Intruder Alarm untaps all creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"repeat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This produces:\narbitrarily large coloured mana;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"arbitrarily many Merfolk tokens;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"arbitrarily many creature-entering triggers."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster + Intruder Alarm + Opposition"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The sequence is:\ntap Schoolmaster through Opposition;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap an opposing artifact, creature or land;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Schoolmaster creates a token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Intruder Alarm untaps all creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"repeat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This produces:\narbitrarily many Merfolk tokens;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the ability to tap all relevant opposing artifacts, creatures and lands;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a battlefield state that normally ends the game."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lullmage Mentor + Intruder Alarm + Seven Merfolk"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When an opponent casts a spell:\ntap seven Merfolk through Lullmage Mentor;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"counter the spell;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mentor creates a Merfolk token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the token triggers Intruder Alarm;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"all creatures untap;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"repeat for the next counterable spell."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is a conditional spell lock rather than an absolute hard lock. It can still be broken by:\nuncounterable spells;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"split-second interaction;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removal used before the engine is established;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"abilities that do not use the stack as spells;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"effects that remove enough Merfolk."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets + Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is not an infinite tap loop.\nIt is a repeatable extra-turn engine.\nThe sequence is:\nattack with Wanderwine Prophets;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prophets becomes tapped;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage creates a Merfolk token if it has not triggered that turn;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prophets deals combat damage to a player;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"sacrifice the token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"take an extra turn;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"repeat once Pilgrimage can trigger again during the new turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The bottleneck is combat access.\nThe line requires:\na legal Merfolk to champion when Prophets enters;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a way for Prophets to connect;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protection against instant-speed removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"enough board control to continue the chain."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"6. Protection and Tactical Interaction"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The current version has a layered but narrower protection package than earlier builds.\nThe primary protection tools are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala, Warden of Waves"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mizzium Skin"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Eerie Interlude"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Counterspell"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swan Song"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala, Warden of Waves"},{"insert":" taxes opposing spells and activated abilities that target Merfolk. It protects the tribe passively, but it does not stop board wipes or other untargeted effects.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mizzium Skin"},{"insert":" is efficient protection against targeted interaction. It can protect one creature cheaply or use overload to protect the entire creature board from targeting. It does not grant indestructible and does not solve most untargeted sweepers.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Eerie Interlude"},{"insert":" is the principal protection against many creature board wipes. It also allows the deck to retrigger enters abilities, but token creatures exiled this way cease to exist and will not return.\nThe reactive interaction package is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Counterspell"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swan Song"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swords to Plowshares"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Path to Exile"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pongify"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stroke of Midnight"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heliod’s Intervention"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wash Out"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The objective is not to answer every opposing permanent.\nThe objective is to answer the card that prevents the current plan from functioning.\nThe Full Turn-Cycle Principle"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron is strongest when the pilot stops viewing the turn as ending after combat.\nA productive turn cycle may look like this:\nattack with evasive Merfolk;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"draw cards through Bident or Reconnaissance Mission;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"move to the end step;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"resolve "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"insert":" before untapping creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"untap Merfolk through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap Schoolmaster or another creature through an outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"untap it through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"pass with mana and creatures available;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":" during an opponent’s upkeep;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hold "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Counterspell"},{"insert":", "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swan Song"},{"insert":", Sygg activation or removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use Wizardcycling on the final end step if no answer was required."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Passing with unused mana is not automatically a wasted turn.\nOpen mana may represent:\nSygg protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"countermagic;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wizardcycling;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a Schoolmaster activation;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an Opposition activation;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the ability to conceal the next pivot."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The better the existing battlefield becomes, the less necessary it is to tap out for another permanent.\nGame Plan"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Early Game: Turns 1–3"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The early game is about establishing function rather than immediate dominance.\nA strong opening should provide:\nstable blue mana;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one early Merfolk, ramp piece or tap outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one meaningful follow-up;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"either interaction, card flow or an engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a clear plan for the next two turns."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Strong early cards include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sol Ring"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Arcane Signet"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Azorius Signet"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Fellwar Stone"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Talisman of Progress"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Banneret"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tidal Warrior"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tide Shaper"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lord of Atlantis"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Master of the Pearl Trident"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Turn One"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A productive first turn normally consists of:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sol Ring"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tidal Warrior"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tide Shaper"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a tapped land when necessary."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck does not need to appear explosive immediately.\nIt needs a permanent that makes turns two and three more efficient.\nTurn Two"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Turn two normally establishes the first direction.\nPossible plans include:\nramp through a signet or Talisman;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"reduce costs through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Banneret"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"begin token development through "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"increase combat pressure through a lord or "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"deploy "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"cast the commander when protection will matter;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"leave interaction available against a fast table."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not cast "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"insert":" automatically.\nCasting him is strongest when the board already contains a creature worth protecting or an attack that protection materially improves.\nTurn Three"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Turn three is often the first genuine engine turn.\nStrong plays include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Reejerey"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Sovereign"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala, Warden of Waves"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg’s Command"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"transmuting "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drift of Phantasms"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"holding interaction against a faster table."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is the stage where the pilot begins identifying the bottleneck.\nThe missing resource may be:\ndraw;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"evasion;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a token generator;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a tap outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an untap engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a finisher;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"or interaction."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Turn Four"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"By turn four, the deck should begin transitioning from setup into pressure or engine value.\nStrong developments include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Bident of Thassa"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Reconnaissance Mission"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Seahunter"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a protected attack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an end-step Wizard tutor;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"holding mana while the existing board continues working."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not cast "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" merely because three mana is available.\nCast it when the board can immediately exploit it or when the probability of opponents benefiting first is acceptably low.\nMidgame: Turns 4–7"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The midgame is the strongest phase of Razorfin Squadron.\nAn ideal midgame battlefield contains:\nseveral Merfolk;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one anthem or combat enabler;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one draw, token or tap engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"open mana or passive protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a clear route toward either pressure or a pivot."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before committing another card, ask:\nAm I currently the beatdown?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Is my battlefield already sufficient to draw cards?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does the table represent a board wipe?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Which permanent must survive for my next turn to matter?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Is the missing card a tutor target?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can Opposition produce more value than another creature?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Should I keep mana for interaction?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can I eliminate one opponent this turn?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Am I building value after I already have enough material to win?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The most important midgame skill is changing roles.\nAgainst slower creature decks, Razorfin can become the aggressor.\nAgainst faster combo decks, it becomes a tempo-control deck.\nAgainst removal-heavy decks, it should deploy one engine at a time.\nAgainst a tapped-down table, it should stop accumulating value and begin closing.\nClosing the Game: Turns 6–8"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck should not remain in value mode indefinitely.\nThe principal closing transitions are:\nactivate "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" for a lethal or near-lethal attack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"cast "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Akroma’s Will"},{"insert":" with the commander available;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"begin a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":" extra-turn chain;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"assemble a Schoolmaster and Intruder Alarm loop;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":" to remove lands and blockers from the game;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"establish a "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":" counter shield;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use lord effects and islandwalk to eliminate vulnerable opponents;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"insert":" to finish damaged players outside combat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Before attempting to close:\ncount exact combat damage;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"identify instant-speed interaction;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"identify which opponent must be removed first;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"retain mana for Sygg, Mizzium Skin or countermagic;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"determine whether Mirror Entity changes your creatures’ base statistics profitably;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tap potential blockers through Opposition or Sygg’s Command;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"do not give the table another full turn cycle without a reason."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Card Advantage"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Bident of Thassa and Reconnaissance Mission"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"These are the cleanest combat-draw engines.\nTheir purpose is to make every safe attack replace itself.\nOnce one of them is active:\nattack the player with the weakest blockers;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"spread attackers only when doing so creates more safe connections;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"avoid sacrificing creatures unnecessarily for minor damage;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"retain drawn creatures for rebuilding when the board is already strong."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"insert":" adds another combat-draw layer without relying on Merfolk typing.\nIts main function is redundancy. The deck wants enough draw engines that losing one does not end the entire pressure plan.\nKindred Discovery"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"insert":" has the highest ceiling.\nIt rewards:\nMerfolk entering;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Merfolk attacking;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"token production;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Intruder Alarm loops;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg’s Command copying a Merfolk;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Schoolmaster creating additional bodies."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It can draw an enormous number of cards. During an infinite token line, be careful not to draw the entire library unless the game is ending immediately.\nSage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"insert":" gives nontoken Wizards additional material and later converts +1/+1 counters into cards.\nThe deck should not remove counters automatically.\nKeep counters when:\ncombat damage matters;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a creature needs to survive damage-based removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mirror Entity or a lord turn the extra power into lethal."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cash them in when:\ncards are more important than damage;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the creature is about to die;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the hand is depleted;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an answer must be found immediately."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The front face is unblockable and grants a temporary combat-draw ability when it enters or transforms back into that face.\nThe back face is also unblockable and can give one creature protection from every colour until the next turn when it transforms.\nThis creates a repeatable tactical cycle:\nuse the front face to improve combat-based card flow;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"pay white during the first main phase to transform;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protect the most important creature through the next turn cycle;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"later pay blue to transform back;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"grant another temporary combat-draw trigger."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The protection does not cover colourless sources.\nThe card should be treated as a flexible draw-protection engine rather than a simple two-mana attacker. ("},{"attributes":{"link":"https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/lorwyn-eclipsed-release-notes"},"insert":"MAGIC: THE GATHERING"},{"insert":")\nDistant Melody"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Distant Melody"},{"insert":" is the large refill.\nCast it when:\nthe board is already wide;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the cards drawn can still be used;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the table is not clearly representing an immediate wipe;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the deck needs to find a finisher or protection."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Avoid using it for only two cards unless the hand is nearly empty or the situation is urgent.\nTutor Matrix"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The tutor package is one of the deck’s greatest sources of consistency.\nThe rule is:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tutor for the bottleneck, not the card with the highest ceiling."},{"insert":"\nMuddle the Mixture"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Muddle the Mixture"},{"insert":" can remain a counterspell or transmute for a card with mana value two.\nImportant targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Commerce"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lord of Atlantis"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Master of the Pearl Trident"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Banneret"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, Wanderwine Wisdom"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Azorius Signet"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Talisman of Progress"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Keep Muddle as interaction when:\na combo player is close to winning;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the battlefield is already functional;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the deck must protect a critical turn;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"transmuting would require tapping out dangerously."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Drift of Phantasms"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drift of Phantasms"},{"insert":" finds the critical three-mana layer.\nImportant targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala, Warden of Waves"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Reejerey"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Sovereign"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Waters"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg’s Command"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use Drift when one three-drop changes the hand from a collection of cards into a coherent plan.\nMerrow Harbinger"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Harbinger"},{"insert":" finds any Merfolk and places it on top of the library.\nImportant targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tidal Warrior"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Because the card goes on top rather than into the hand, consider whether a draw trigger is available immediately.\nStep Through and Vedalken Aethermage"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wizardcycling finds the most appropriate Wizard.\nThe strongest default targets are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sage of Fables"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Wizardcycling is normally strongest during the final end step before your turn, after confirming that no immediate interaction is required.\nSeahunter"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Seahunter"},{"insert":" puts a Merfolk directly from the library onto the battlefield.\nThis bypasses normal casting but also means:\nthe creature cannot be countered by conventional creature counterspells;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Merrow cast triggers do not occur;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Waters"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Reejerey"},{"insert":" do not trigger;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the creature entering still triggers "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kindred Discovery"},{"insert":"."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Premium Seahunter targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Svyelun of Sea and Sky"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Key Card Interactions"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist + Merrow Commerce"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Both cards trigger during the beginning of the end step.\nA productive sequence is:\nchoose the Duelist target;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"place the Duelist trigger on the stack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"place the Commerce trigger above it;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Commerce resolves and untaps the Merfolk board;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"before the Duelist trigger resolves, tap the chosen Merfolk through an outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Duelist resolves and untaps it again."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This can produce another activation from:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Seahunter"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist + Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Both trigger at the beginning of the end step.\nTo preserve maximum Throne damage:\nplace the Duelist and Commerce triggers on the stack first;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"place the Throne trigger above them;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Throne resolves while the creatures are still tapped;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the untap effects resolve afterward."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This prevents Duelist from accidentally reducing the Throne count.\nSygg’s Command + Merfolk Engines"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg’s Command"},{"insert":" is a Kindred Sorcery — Merfolk.\nThis means it is a Merfolk spell.\nIt therefore interacts with:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Banneret"},{"insert":", which can reduce its cost;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merrow Reejerey"},{"insert":", which triggers when it is cast;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Waters"},{"insert":", which creates a Merfolk token when it is cast."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The usual modes are:\ncopy a valuable Merfolk and draw a card;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"copy a valuable Merfolk and tap a creature with a stun counter;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"draw a card and tap a creature when no strong copy target exists."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Strong copy targets include:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a lord;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Be careful when copying a legendary Merfolk. The legend rule will normally require one copy to be placed into the graveyard. ("},{"attributes":{"link":"https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/lorwyn-eclipsed-release-notes"},"insert":"MAGIC: THE GATHERING"},{"insert":")\nMirror Entity + Wide Board"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" is the deck’s most scalable mana sink.\nIts ability makes all creatures:\nevery creature type;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"base power and toughness X/X until end of turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This means even non-Merfolk creatures such as "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Enduring Curiosity"},{"insert":" or "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drift of Phantasms"},{"insert":" can become Merfolk and benefit from tribal effects for the turn.\nDo not automatically spend all available mana.\nCalculate:\nthe current lord bonuses;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"whether mana must remain for Sygg or protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"whether a smaller activation already creates lethal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"whether an opponent can remove Mirror Entity in response."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor + Islandwalk"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel"},{"insert":" becomes dramatically stronger when an opposing land is an Island.\nSuccessful combat can provide:\nan opposing Sol Ring;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a mana rock;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"graveyard hate;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"utility equipment;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a combo artifact;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an artifact that removes another opponent’s permanent."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not automatically steal the most expensive card.\nSteal the artifact that most improves the current position or most damages the opponent’s plan.\nKopala + Sygg"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala"},{"insert":" taxes targeted interaction, while Sygg can respond to the interaction that opponents still choose to pay for.\nTogether they force opponents to:\nleave additional mana open;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"act while the Sygg player is tapped down;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use untargeted removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"spend several resources breaking one engine."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is strong protection against spot removal, but neither card solves untargeted sweepers.\nImportant Rules Notes"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"1. Sygg’s Protection"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection from a chosen colour means the protected Merfolk cannot be:\ndamaged by sources of that colour;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"enchanted or equipped by objects of that colour;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"blocked by creatures of that colour;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"targeted by spells or abilities from sources of that colour."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection can also interfere with your own coloured effects.\nChoose the colour carefully before targeting the protected creature with another spell or ability.\n2. Summoning Sickness and External Tap Costs"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Summoning sickness stops a creature from:\nattacking;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"activating its own ability containing the tap or untap symbol."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It does not prevent that creature from being tapped to pay the cost of another permanent’s ability.\nFresh Merfolk can immediately be used with:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Drowner of Secrets"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Springleaf Drum"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Paradise Mantle"},{"insert":" grants the equipped creature its own tap ability, so that creature must have been under your control since the beginning of the turn or otherwise have haste before using it.\n3. Deeproot Pilgrimage Triggers Only Once Each Turn"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deeproot Pilgrimage"},{"insert":" does not create an infinite token loop merely because a Merfolk repeatedly taps and untaps.\nIts ability can trigger only once during each turn.\nIt remains extremely powerful because a four-player game offers several turns in each full round, and the restriction resets during every new turn.\nThis is also why it supports "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":": every extra turn is a new turn in which Pilgrimage can trigger again.\n4. Intruder Alarm Affects Every Player"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Whenever a creature enters, all creatures untap.\nOpponents can benefit before the combo is ready.\nAvoid casting Alarm into boards containing:\nopposing mana creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"dangerous tap abilities;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"sacrifice engines that repeatedly create creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"commanders that exploit creature entries;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a player who can combo before your next action."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"5. Eerie Interlude and Tokens"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Tokens exiled by "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Eerie Interlude"},{"insert":" cease to exist and do not return.\nUse Interlude to preserve:\nlords;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"engine creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tutors;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the commander;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"valuable nontoken Merfolk."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not expect it to preserve a large token army.\n6. Eerie Interlude and Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When Prophets leaves the battlefield, the Merfolk championed by it returns.\nWhen Prophets returns at the end step, its champion ability triggers again and another Merfolk must be exiled or Prophets must be sacrificed.\n7. Changeling Works in Every Zone"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mothdust Changeling"},{"insert":" are every creature type in:\nthe library;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the hand;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the graveyard;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"exile;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the stack;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the battlefield."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"They can therefore be found by both Merfolk and Wizard tutors.\n8. Mizzium Skin"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The normal mode protects one creature from targeted effects.\nThe overload mode protects the creature board from targeting.\nIt does not protect against:\nuntargeted board wipes;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"sacrifice effects;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"exile effects that do not target;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"global -X/-X effects;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"damage that exceeds the toughness bonus."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"9. Kopala"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Kopala increases the cost of opposing targeted spells and activated abilities.\nIt does not tax:\ntriggered abilities;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"board wipes;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"spells that do not target;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"abilities that affect all creatures."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"10. Wanderwine Prophets"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prophets needs:\na Merfolk to champion;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"combat damage to a player;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"another Merfolk to sacrifice after connecting."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The championed Merfolk is not the same as the Merfolk sacrificed for the extra turn unless it has returned to the battlefield first.\nInteraction Hierarchy"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck should use interaction according to priority rather than convenience.\nStack Interaction"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The main stack answers are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Counterspell"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swan Song"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Muddle the Mixture"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Preserve them for:\nimmediate winning lines;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"board wipes;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removal aimed at an irreplaceable engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"spells that invalidate combat or activated abilities;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"interaction attempting to stop a winning turn."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Creature Interaction"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The primary creature answers are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swords to Plowshares"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Path to Exile"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pongify"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg’s Command"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use permanent removal on creatures that cannot be handled through:\nblocking;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tapping;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"tempo;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"temporary ability removal."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Flexible Permanent Interaction"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The primary flexible answers are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stroke of Midnight"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heliod’s Intervention"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heliod’s Intervention"},{"insert":" is strongest when it removes several artifacts or enchantments at once. Its life-gain mode is secondary but can stabilise against burn, drain or a lethal attack.\nBoard Resets"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The principal reset effects are:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wash Out"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wash Out"},{"insert":" can remove more than creatures, but it may also affect your own permanents of the chosen colour.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"insert":" is normally efficient single-target exile and can become a creature reset through overload. Remember that overloaded Winds allows opponents to search for basic lands.\nPlaying Around Board Wipes"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Board wipes remain the deck’s primary structural weakness.\nThe current protection package does not justify deploying every creature.\nA strong board normally requires:\none lord;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one draw or token engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"enough creatures to apply pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one protection spell or counter;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"additional creatures retained in hand."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Against a suspected wipe:\ndo not deploy every lord;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"keep one tutor or draw engine available;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"preserve "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Eerie Interlude"},{"insert":" or countermagic;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"remember that Mizzium Skin and Kopala will not solve most sweepers;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"avoid converting every card into a token that Interlude cannot save;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"use Bident or Reconnaissance Mission to refill without overextending;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"retain enough mana to recast Sygg or another engine after the reset."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck is resilient through card flow, not through graveyard recursion.\nThreat Assessment"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Against Creature-Combat Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg’s Command"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wash Out"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"islandwalk pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protecting the superior combat board."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not remove every attacker.\nRemove or disable the creature that makes the attack profitable.\nAgainst Go-Wide Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wash Out"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Winds of Abandon"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"evasive pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removing anthem effects;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"eliminating the go-wide player before their board becomes too large."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Against Voltron"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swords to Plowshares"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Path to Exile"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pongify"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stroke of Midnight"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Merfolk Trickster"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg protection for profitable blocking."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Against Artifact Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Thada Adel, Acquisitor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heliod’s Intervention"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stroke of Midnight"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"stack interaction for the key engine."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Thada can often steal the exact artifact that would otherwise need to be answered.\nAgainst Enchantment and Stax Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Heliod’s Intervention"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Generous Gift"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stroke of Midnight"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"countermagic;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"identifying which permanent actually prevents the deck from functioning."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not spend premium interaction on a minor tax effect when a genuine lock piece is likely to follow.\nAgainst Graveyard Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The current list has no dedicated graveyard-hate package.\nPrioritise:\nfast pressure;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"countering recursion spells;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removing sacrifice outlets;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"stopping commanders that repeatedly access the graveyard;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"stealing graveyard hate with Thada when an opponent’s deck contains it;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"ending the game before the graveyard becomes overwhelming."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This remains one of the deck’s weaker matchup categories.\nAgainst Spell Combo"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Counterspell"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Swan Song"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Vodalian Hexcatcher"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Muddle the Mixture"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Tishana’s Tidebinder"},{"insert":" when the line depends on an ability;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"mana discipline."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not tap out for another medium creature when one player is clearly approaching a winning turn.\nAgainst Control and Board-Wipe Decks"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prioritise:\none engine at a time;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Kopala"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mizzium Skin"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Eerie Interlude"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"combat-draw engines;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"retaining creatures in hand;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"forcing interaction before committing the finisher."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mulligan Guide"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Keep Hands With"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A strong opening hand normally contains:\ntwo or three lands;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"at least one reliable blue source;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one early Merfolk, ramp piece or tap outlet;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one meaningful follow-up;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"either an engine, tutor or interaction spell;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a clear route through turns two to four."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Strong examples include:\nthree lands, Stonybrook Banneret, a lord and interaction;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"two lands, Sol Ring, a Merfolk and a draw engine;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"three lands, Deeproot Pilgrimage, a tap outlet and protection;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"three lands, Muddle the Mixture, a creature and a mana rock;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"three lands, Deepchannel Duelist, Bident and removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"two lands, Springleaf Drum, two cheap Merfolk and a follow-up."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Be Cautious With"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one-land hands without Sol Ring or reliable acceleration;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands containing several five- and six-mana cards;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands with finishers but no creatures;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands with interaction but no way to develop;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands with Intruder Alarm but no functional fair plan;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands with several utility or colourless lands and no stable blue mana;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands relying entirely on drawing the third land;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"hands containing only lords and no source of cards or interaction."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"A strong hand does not need a combo.\nIt needs a coherent first three turns.\nMaybeboard Guide"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The maybeboard contains four physically available tactical flex cards.\nChart a Course"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Chart a Course"},{"insert":" is the low-cost card-flow option.\nBring it into the mainboard when:\nthe deck needs more cheap draw;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"games are decided before slower engines become active;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removal-heavy pods repeatedly break the board;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"maintaining a lower mana curve matters more than tribal density."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It is currently outside the mainboard because "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist"},{"insert":" contributes more directly to combat, tribal density and the tap-engine plan.\nKeep Safe"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Keep Safe"},{"insert":" is a protection spell that replaces itself when it resolves.\nBring it into the mainboard when:\nopponents rely heavily on targeted removal;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"protecting a single key engine is more important than broad interaction;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the pod plays fewer board wipes;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the game is expected to become a long resource exchange."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It competes with "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mizzium Skin"},{"insert":", which is cheaper in its normal mode and can protect several creatures through overload.\nSeafloor Oracle"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Seafloor Oracle"},{"insert":" is an additional combat-draw engine on a Merfolk body.\nBring it into the mainboard when:\nthe table is creature-heavy and slower;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"islandwalk connections are reliable;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"maintaining Merfolk density is important;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"removal is less efficient;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the deck needs another tutorable draw payoff."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It is currently outside the mainboard because the four-mana draw slot is already crowded and the deck retains several other combat-draw engines.\nWizard’s Retort"},{"attributes":{"header":2},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wizard’s Retort"},{"insert":" is additional stack interaction.\nBring it into the mainboard when:\nthe pod contains fast combo;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"board wipes are common;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"stack wars regularly decide games;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"the deck can reliably maintain a Wizard;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"one more hard counter matters more than a situational engine card."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"It is strongest when its cost reduction is consistently active.\nStrengths"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Strong and coherent Merfolk tribal identity."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Several independent combat-draw engines."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Five functional tutors plus Seahunter."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Multiple overlapping win conditions."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Genuine infinite combos without filling the list with otherwise useless pieces."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Excellent access to evasive combat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Strong turn-cycle scaling."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Opposition can dominate creature and mana-based tables."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Lullmage Mentor provides stack control from within the tribe."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg gives repeatable command-zone protection."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Kopala and Mizzium Skin reinforce targeted-removal resilience."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Deepchannel Duelist improves both fair combat and engine efficiency."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mirror Entity converts any wide battlefield into a threat."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Sygg’s Command is flexible and interacts with Merfolk-cast triggers."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Thada Adel and Heliod’s Intervention give strong artifact coverage."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck can change roles between beatdown, control, engine and combo."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Weaknesses"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck remains dependent on creatures surviving."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Repeated board wipes create major tempo losses."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Eerie Interlude does not preserve tokens."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Mizzium Skin and Kopala do not stop untargeted sweepers."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The list has limited graveyard recursion."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"There is no dedicated graveyard-hate package."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Some cards are highly board-dependent."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Intruder Alarm can help opposing decks."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Distant Melody is weak without an established battlefield."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Seahunter is slow and mana-intensive."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh does little while the deck is behind."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck can generate value longer than necessary instead of closing."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protection and tutor decisions require careful mana management."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Incorrect trigger ordering can lose damage or additional activations."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck cannot function as pure hard control for an indefinite game."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The high number of overlapping lines creates a demanding pilot experience."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Piloting Principles"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Play tempo first, engine second and combo third."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Develop a functional board, not the largest possible board."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Do not cast Sygg automatically on turn two."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Protect the creature that makes the next turn matter."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use the entire turn cycle."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Trigger Deeproot Pilgrimage during different players’ turns."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Treat Stonybrook Schoolmaster as an engine, not a filler creature."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Cast Intruder Alarm when it immediately changes the game."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Tutor for the bottleneck."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use Opposition for incremental tempo before demanding a full lock."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Keep creatures in hand once combat draw is active."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Respect board wipes."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Count Mirror Entity damage before spending all available mana."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Determine which opponent must be removed first."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Stop drawing and developing once the battlefield already supports a winning line."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"When the tide turns, do not give the table another free turn cycle."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Rule 0 Statement"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"This is a tuned Azorius Merfolk tempo-control and tap-engine deck led by "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Sygg, River Guide"},{"insert":".\nThe deck begins by developing Merfolk, lords, islandwalk and combat-based card advantage. It then uses tap and untap engines to generate tokens, mana and board control.\nThe deck contains conditional three-card infinite combos involving "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Intruder Alarm"},{"insert":" and "},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Stonybrook Schoolmaster"},{"insert":". These lines can generate infinite tokens, mana, mill or opposing-permanent taps.\nIt can also win through:\nordinary evasive Merfolk combat;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Mirror Entity"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Akroma’s Will"},{"insert":";"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Wanderwine Prophets"},{"insert":" extra turns;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Opposition"},{"insert":" denial;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Lullmage Mentor"},{"insert":" counterspell control;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Throne of the God-Pharaoh"},{"insert":" reach."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The deck is interactive and can create oppressive battlefield states, but it is not cEDH, a dedicated fast-combo deck or a full hard-stax strategy.\nIt is intended for high-power casual and focused Commander tables.\nFinal Notes"},{"attributes":{"header":1},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron rewards role assessment, sequencing and restraint.\nEvery Merfolk can become:\nan attacker;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a card;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a mana source;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a token;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an Opposition activation;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"part of a counterspell shield;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"an Intruder Alarm trigger;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"a sacrifice for an extra turn;"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"or the final point of lethal damage."},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"The central questions are:\nWhat is my current role?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Which permanent must survive?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"What is the bottleneck?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Can this Merfolk be used again during the same turn cycle?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Does another card need to be committed to the battlefield?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Which opponent can break the engine?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Is the deck still developing, or is it already capable of winning?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"What happens if the table untaps one more time?"},{"attributes":{"list":"ordered"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Razorfin Squadron does not overwhelm the table through one enormous creature.\nIt begins with small movements.\nOne land becomes an Island.\nOne Merfolk passes unblocked.\nOne attack becomes three cards.\nOne tap becomes another body.\nOne body becomes an army.\nOne untap becomes a loop.\nBy the time the table understands how all the pieces connect, the river has already carried the game away."},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"}]}