­Brimstone Mage and Valakut Invoker are two examples of how much this effect should cost. Neither has such an efficient body though.

Also see Lightning Crafter. It can be difficult to figure out just how much the Crafter 'costs'. But comparing it to other rares with champion at 4 mana probably helps: Boggart Mob, Nova Chaser and Thoughtweft Trio for example.

Also, modern card design theory says that even if this card was overcosted, and only did 1 point of damage, that it couldn't be common. Prodigal Pyromancers are supposed to be at least uncommon because of their ability to kill multiple creatures, and too many cards like this can cause overly complicated board states. But I reckon whether or not you care about that sort of thing is a matter of personal taste.

overcomplication is NOT something im worried about, i just want this set to seem a bit more realistic and less ... gross (the flavor and color pie is repeateedly violated, me no like)

hm okay uncommon, will try something

this is better maybe? very red, so could work?

Well, not counting the issue of commonality, this seems pretty good to me. I'd even say you might be able to cut the activation by , if you wanted.

I sense a theme with the raiders...

what do you sense secinf?

and yes it needs to be uncommon, sorry