When an opponent plays Hidden Blade targeting Qiyana who has Deflect, and the defender plays Defy to counter it, does the opponent still need to pay the Deflect cost?

Ruling: The opponent pays the Deflect cost when Hidden Blade goes on the chain, before Defy can be played to counter it.

Sequence:

• Opponent plays Hidden Blade targeting Qiyana
• Deflect cost must be paid when Hidden Blade goes on the chain
• After that, Defy can be played to counter Hidden Blade

Nuances:

• The Deflect cost is paid regardless of whether the spell is later countered by Defy