If you counter a repeatable spell, does it still have a chance to play twice, or does it go to trash on the first cast when it gets countered?
If you counter a spell with Repeat, the entire spell—including the repeated execution—is countered and sent to the trash. It does not have a chance to play twice.
According to RiftJudge FAQ #9005 and Rule 820.1.d, a spell with Repeat is finalized as a single item on the chain. When you pay the Repeat cost as an additional cost while playing the spell, you are simply extending that single chain item's effect to happen twice upon resolution.
Because it is a single item on the chain, a counter effect (such as Defy) negates the entire chain item. Rule 425.1.a states that a countered spell does nothing and is cleared from the chain. Consequently:
- Single Unit of Action: The Repeat cost is paid as an additional cost before the spell is finalized on the chain. You cannot wait to see if your opponent reacts before deciding to Repeat, and you cannot "split" the spell to have one part resolve if the other is countered.
- Outcome of Countering: When the spell is countered, the entire object is removed from the chain and placed in your trash. Neither the original effect nor the repeated execution will occur.
This is supported by RiftJudge FAQ #256, which confirms that if a spell with Repeat is countered, the entire spell (including the repeated portion) is countered and sent to the trash.