# 1999 Magic: The Gathering Mercadian Masques #157

> The Mercadian Masques Rouse foil (card #157) is a 1999 Magic: The Gathering common instant featuring a unique life-pay cost mechanic.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1999
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Mercadian Masques
- **Card number**: #157
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1999 as part of the Mercadian Masques expansion, the Rouse card (MMQ #157) stands out among Magic: The Gathering commons for its innovative mana cost structure. Designed by Dave Dorman, this foil version brings a shimmering finish to a card that allows players to pay 2 life instead of its standard mana cost, provided they control a Swamp. As a black Instant, Rouse offers a flexible combat trick, granting a target creature +2/+0 until end of turn, making it a staple for aggressive strategies in early block-era formats. The card’s ability to bypass mana constraints adds strategic versatility, appealing to both competitive players and those who enjoy the intricate rules interactions of late 1990s Magic. Whether you are building a vintage collection or simply admiring the artistry of Dave Dorman, this foil Rouse represents a key piece of Magic history. Its enduring appeal lies in its clever design and the tangible excitement of handling a foil card from a pivotal era in the game’s evolution.

## FAQ

### Is Rouse a rare card in Mercadian Masques?

Rouse is a common card from the Mercadian Masques set, indicated by its black symbol in the bottom right corner. While commons are mass-produced, foil versions are less common and often sought after by collectors for their visual appeal and condition.

### What does the Rouse card do in gameplay?

Rouse is a black Instant that lets you pay 2 life instead of its mana cost if you control a Swamp. When cast, it gives a target creature +2/+0 until end of turn, making it useful for boosting attackers or blocking creatures.

### Who illustrated the Mercadian Masques Rouse card?

The card was illustrated by Dave Dorman, known for his detailed and atmospheric artwork in Magic: The Gathering during the late 1990s. His style is a defining characteristic of the Mercadian Masques set's visual identity.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.