exactly. it seems countering or sneak attacking is considered different by the game then a normal attack...hence-an attack using this set up *Weapon: Master Command=HP Absorb, Morph=Sneak Attack, Morph=Counter"

will only absorb hp when attacking normally.

i guess its the same reason u cant counter counters. counters r programmed by the game to Counter= Attacks, not Counterattacks.