Baird, Steward of Argive (CMM)

Baird, Steward of Argive
Casting Cost: {2} {w} {w}
Card type: Legendary Creature - Human Soldier
Power/Toughness: 2/4

Abilities:
• Vigilance
• Creatures can't Attack you or Planeswalkers you control Unless Their Controller Pays {1} for Each of Those Creatures.

Flavour text:
"The Walls of Argive Were Built by A Peaceful Dynastic Union That has Guarded Us Against War for Fifteen Centuries. The Lesson is clear."

Artist: Christine Choi

With a solemn vow to protect, Baird, Steward of Argive Stands As A Steadfast Guardian, Deterring would-be Attackers with the Weight of History and the Strength of Conviction. For a casting cost of {2} {w} {w}, baird presents a solid defensive stat line or 2/4, fortified further by vigilance - ensuring he can both defend and Attack Without Tapping.

However, It's Baird's Secondary Ability that Truly Exemplifies HIS Role as the Steward of Argive. Any Opponent Wishing to Assault You Or Your Planeswalkers Will Find Their Forces Burden Burden by A Tax, Needing to Pay An Additional {1} ​​For Each Creature That Seek to Breach Your Defenses. This Ability Resonates with the Essence of White's Control Strategy in Magic: The Gathering, Taxing and Restricting Opponents' Actions to Maintain Stability and Order.

The Flavour Text Reinforces Baird's Dedication to Peace and his Role as a steward. Referencing the Walls of Argive and Their Enduring Legacy, It Speaks of A Time-Honored Tradition of Diplomacy and Unity That has shielded its people from the Ravages of War. Baird's Message is Both A Testament to the Achievements of the Past and a Call to Recognize the Value of Unity and Peace in the Present.

Christine Choi's Artwork Likely Captures Baird in A Posture of Regal Authority. Perhaps Standing Against the Backdrop of the Towering Walls of Argive, Argive Gleaming in The Sun, His Gaze Could Both Stern And Resolute - A Symbol of his Commitment to Safeguarding HIS Homeland. Choi's Detailed Art Style would Emphasize the Intricate Designs of Baird's Armor, The Texture of the Walls, and the Ambient Light, Lending DePth and Realism to the Scene.

In gameplay, Baird, Steward of Argive Serves as an excellent duck in commander and other multiplayer formats, where multiple opponents might find the cumulative cost of attacking too high. He's particularly well-suited for Pillow-Fort strategies, where the aim is to create layers of defenses, making it increasingly prohibitive for opponents to harm you. HIS Presence on the battlefield not only obstacles aggressive strategies but also provides a thematic representation of a storied guardian, ensuring that your reign remains unchallenged.