Auto Pump for Ajani

[mongoosa]

If I have a Soul Warden (for example) in play and put down Ajani's Pridemate, would Ajani get the +1/+1 the turn he comes in to play since I gain life for him going to the battlefield?

[zackatakr]

Yeah, that sounds like it would stack up. Let's say Soul Warden is already down. Ajani's Pridemate is cast, and Soul Warden's ability triggers. Ajani's Pridemate would be 1st in the stack, and after it resolves, Soul Warden's ability will resolve, giving you a life, which will trigger Ajani's Pridemate's ability, which gives it a +1/+1 counter.

[mongoosa]

That's what I thought.  Thanks!

[Drunk Cynic]

Yeah, that sounds like it would stack up. Let's say Soul Warden is already down. Ajani's Pridemate is cast, and Soul Warden's ability triggers. Ajani's Pridemate would be 1st in the stack, and after it resolves, Soul Warden's ability will resolve, giving you a life, which will trigger Ajani's Pridemate's ability, which gives it a +1/+1 counter.

Right answer, wrong diagnosis.
With Soul Warden in play controlled by you, you cast Ajani's Pridemate. When Ajani's Pridemate resolves, it enters the battlefield. The Triggered ability of Soul Warden happens, and enters the stack. When it resolves, you gain one life, activating the triggered ability of Ajani's Pridemate. When it resolves, a +1/+1 counter goes on Ajani's Pridemate if he is still in play.

[mongoosa]

So, is it possible for someone to take him out with direct damage, for example, prior to the +1/+1 counter taking effect?

[Drunk Cynic]

Yes, an instant speed direct damage effect could be placed on the stack in response to the Soul Warden's triggered ability, and it would resolve first.

[mongoosa]

Interesting.  I would never have thought of that.  Thank you.