Can you use Retreat on a recruit token and channel 1 rune from it?

Ruling: Yes, you can use Retreat on a recruit token and channel 1 rune from it. The token does go to your hand but ceases to exist immediately after moving there.

Sequence:

  • The recruit token moves to your hand
  • The token ceases to exist immediately after entering the hand zone
  • You channel 1 rune as normal from the Retreat effect

Nuances:

  • The token going to hand (before ceasing to exist) matters for effects that trigger when permanents move to specific zones
  • The token is not banished; it simply ceases to exist
  • This distinction is relevant for potential future "when you banish" effects