Counterstrike actually creates a whole new Attack with all new Steps of its own, but it doesn't start until the first attack is resolved and done.  If the creature is destroyed, then there is no counterstrike.  Remember that Counterstrike can be used during a Double or Triple strike also, but only against the first attack.  It would occur between the First and Second attacks.  This would remove your Guard counter stopping you from using Counterstrike on the Second and subsequent attacks though.  The Hydra has a Quick Action attack with Counterstrike.  This does not go away after one use and does not set a limit to uses per turn.  As far as I can tell if one Hydra were to attack another Hydra, then they would each resolve an attack against each other three times in a row.  Triplestrike vs Counterstrike.

Would be even better if they made a spell or trait that increased condition rolls.  Tough is the reverse trait but nothing to boost (unless I've totally missed something).  Almost perfect lockdown.

So what exactly were you guys smoking when you thought up the concept for the Decoy artwork?  A trippy looking puffer fish ghost thing?  Must have required a prescription of some kind.

The Damage Modifier can really be seen as a dice modifier instead because it does not alter the end value that was rolled.  Your friend needs to also understand that armor, incorporeal, etc. also are not "defences".

Technically you actually can play an enchantment face-up as long as you pay the hidden plus the reveal cost and there is no existing enchantment on the target that can be used during the "counter spell" step.  There isn't anything that can happen between the hidden and reveal as long as it was done immediately.

I invite other players to comment.  This isn't personal although Jon will need my blessing if he wishes to organize gaming at the store.  So, to other players: Am I missing something about Jon's argument?  Am I completely misreading something?  I do enjoy a good debate.  Please hop on in.

P.S. Jon, you're the one that told Tacullu64 that you could have two Mage Wands because they were in different hands.  It was very nice of you to thank him though.

I would say that you are partially right.  If the slowed Mage moved, then they would have no quick action available, however this does not affect the use of the quickcast action (black token).  It could still be used before or after the activation of the Mage.  If the mage does not move then they act as normal.

You also have to remember that the opponent is not determined by control of the enchantment but rather the target of the spell that is being used against/on the target.