Leovold, Emissary of Trest

Leovold, Emissary of Trest was originally introduced in the 2016 Conspiracy: Take the Crown expansion for Magic: The Gathering. Designed as a legendary creature for the Commander format, the card was conceptualized by the Wizards of the Coast design team to emphasize mechanics centered around hand manipulation and taxation. The character represents a spymaster of the city-state of Trest, and his ability to draw cards whenever an opponent targets his controller's permanents established him as a highly potent, if controversial, force in competitive play.

The specific version appearing in The List—a curated selection of reprints inserted into later booster packs—retains the artwork by Adam Paquette. Paquette’s illustration captures the elusive and calculating nature of the character, utilizing a dark, atmospheric palette that aligns with the card’s identity as a manipulative agent. Upon its release, the card drew significant attention from the community due to its oppressive gameplay impact, eventually leading to its restriction or banning in several formats, which only served to heighten its notoriety among collectors.