Upkeep +X on mages?

[metadust]

I have just had Force Hold cast on my Warlock, and at first I was like does that really mean if I can't pay the upkeep my mage dies? So it has to be dispelled or else.

Effectively channeling takes place before upkeep, so all it really does is act as an effective -3 to Channeling. Is this really allowed completely? Even though at the moment it doesn't seem possible to not be able to pay the upkeep, there is no option to refuse upkeep without committing suicide. Thoughts?

[baronzaltor]

Force Hold's upkeep cost is paid by the mage who cast it, not the mage who is being held.  Notice how the "upkeep +3" portion is separate from the "creature gains:" portion.

Its the mana he has to spend every round to keep you held.

The cards that make the upkeep apply to the target actually say "Creature gains Upkeep +X"  Such as Essence Drain.  However those spells specifically cannot be cast on Mages.   Long story short, Mages can never gain the "Upkeep + X" trait on themselves for the reason you mention (insta-death)

[Shad0w]

Essence Drain VS Force Hold  :angry: