Aether Spike Retro Frame Counterspell
Aether Spike enters Modern Horizons 3 as a compact blue counter option with a twist. The spell costs {1}{U} to cast and targets a spell to disrupt. On resolution you add {U}{U} to your mana pool, and you may spend any amount of blue mana. The targeted spell is countered unless its controller pays one generic mana for each blue mana you paid this way.
In foil retro frame, the card presents a crisp blue border and a shimmering finish that stands out at the table. Practically, it functions as a tempo tool that pressures opponents while rewarding careful sequencing of mana and awareness of what they can pay. It suits blue control builds that want to bend the stack without overcommitting.
Card Details:
- Mana Cost: {1}{U}
- Card Type: Instant
- Subtypes: None
- Card Text / Rules Text (Printed): Choose target spell. You get {U}{U} then you may pay any amount of {U}. Counter that spell unless its controller pays {1} for each {U} paid this way. The shield doesn't block the fire physically. It tells the fire to stop. — Genky, future shaper
- Power / Toughness: N/A
- Loyalty: N/A