The 2003 Fleeting Image from Magic: The Gathering Eighth Edition is a rare Illusion creature card featuring flying and a return-to-hand ability.
Fleeting Image
2003 • Magic: The Gathering • Eighth Edition
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Description
Fleeting Image, card number 79 in Magic: The Gathering Eighth Edition, represents a distinct moment in the game’s 2003 history. This Rare Illusion creature costs {2}{U} to cast and brings a mana value of 3 to the battlefield. Its primary strength lies in its evasion; the card grants flying, allowing it to bypass ground-based blockers unless they possess flying or reach. Beyond its defensive utility, Fleeting Image offers strategic flexibility. For an additional {1}{U}, players can return this creature to its owner's hand, enabling repeated deployments or tactical repositioning during gameplay. This mechanic makes it a valuable asset for decks seeking tempo control and resource management. The card’s design reflects the artistic vision of Dave Dorman, whose work helped define the visual identity of this era. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading card game cards often seek out Eighth Edition pieces for their historical significance and iconic blue border design. Fleeting Image stands out as a notable Rare card, appealing to those who appreciate the depth of the game’s lore and mechanics. The flavor text, drawing from Aesop’s Fables, adds a layer of philosophical intrigue that resonates with long-time enthusiasts. Whether you are building a themed collection or exploring the strategic nuances of the Illusion subtype, this card offers a compelling piece of TCG history. ## What is the mana cost for Fleeting Image? Fleeting Image requires {2}{U} to cast, resulting in a total mana value of 3. This makes it a mid-range option for blue decks. ## How does the flying ability work on this card? Flying allows the creature to be blocked only by other creatures with the flying or reach abilities, giving it significant evasion power. ## Who illustrated Fleeting Image in Eighth Edition? The artwork for this card was created by Dave Dorman, contributing to the distinctive visual style of the 2003 release.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Fleeting Image
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Dave Dorman
Card Stock
English
{2}{U}
Creature — Illusion
2 / 1
U
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying (This creature can't be blocked except by creatures with flying or reach.) {1}{U}: Return this creature to its owner's hand.
"Beware lest you lose the substance by grasping at the shadow." —Aesop, *Fables*, trans. Jacobs
















