You might call this column " The Monthly Bargain Basement " or you might call it " The Monetary Resource Saver for the Financially Challenged Magic Addicted Entity ". Either way it'll be the same. Every issue I'll be here sounding off on overpriced cards and/or slyly tipping you on some real bargains still available.      Before we start, let's set some ground rules for single card purchases. If you can still buy booster packs for its normal cost, then never pay more then 5 dollars for one card. The only exception to this is when you really want that card. If there is a card you must have, then take my advice or ignore my advice. Always do what makes you happy.      MIRAGE..MIRAGE...HOT! MIRAGE..MIRAGE...DRAGONS! The call is echoing through single card dealer shops. But let's put the price list down for a second and look at these dragons. Lets check the 4/4 dragons being hyped for a mere 10 bucks. I remember when the 7/7 Elder Dragons stared in Chronicles for 10 bucks too. What? The Elder Dragons only cost 5 dollars now? Gee, how did that happen? You don't suppose $10 for a 4/4 flyer with a special ability is a hyped price. DO YOU? Oh sure you can always get cards like Serra Angel or Sengir Vampire for less then 5 dollars. But remember they're only uncommon - the Mirage Dragons are rare! And to get them for 5 bucks, you have to accept the white borders of Fourth Edition. Do you suppose a white border deck featuring uncommon 4/4 flyers could compete with the Mirage Dragons? Let's be honest. If you have 10 bucks to buy cards and build a deck, go for 2 Angels instead of 1 Dragon that you'll probably not see in half the games. And, if you picked the Vampires, you might even get them cheap enough to add a 4/4 flying Air Elemental for $1. Well... the final choice is yours. David S. Wilson Email: d***o@k***k.com

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