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Rules Q&A » Post: Leonin Arbiter and shuffling

Leonin Arbiter and shuffling

Oct. 21, 2017 08:06:01 AM

Mikaƫl Rabie
Judge (Level 3 (International Judge Program)), Scorekeeper

France

Leonin Arbiter and shuffling

My opponent controls a Leonin Arbiter. They Ghost Quarter one of my land, and I do not pay 2. Can I still choose to shuffle my library?

Oct. 22, 2017 02:16:09 AM

Callum Milne
Forum Moderator
Judge (Uncertified)

Canada

Leonin Arbiter and shuffling

No. While Leonin Arbiter is in effect, it's not possible for you to search your library, and when a resolving spell or ability asks you to make a choice, you cannot choose an option that's illegal or impossible. (CR 608.2d)

When Ghost Quarter's ability resolves, it gives you a choice: {search your library} or {do nothing}. That first option is impossible thanks to the Arbiter, so therefore, your only legal option is to do nothing.