Counterspell

Mages can attempt to counter enemy spells by investing their own mana and engaging in a contest of will. The defender commits mana and both roll opposed INT checks—the more mana invested, the better your chances.

If the defender wins, the spell is countered. If the caster wins, the spell goes through—but the caster may attempt again next turn, escalating the duel. Only the caster can escalate; the defender gets one chance to stop each casting.

These duels can drain both parties quickly, and a failed Control Roll during escalation can trigger Runaway.