Resonance

Resonance (RES)

Ability Score

Resonance is a rare ability score that represents how strongly a creature’s existence is tied to supernatural authority rather than the Weave of magic. Only select individuals possess a Resonance score. Most creatures do not.

A creature without Resonance is treated as having RES 0 and automatically fails Resonance checks and saving throws.

Resonance Modifier

Resonance uses standard ability score math.

Resonance modifier = (RES − 10) ÷ 2

Example: RES 12 grants a +1 modifier.

Resonance DC

Any feature, item, or power fueled by Resonance uses the following DC:

Resonance DC = 8 + Proficiency Bonus + Resonance modifier

This follows normal 5e bounded accuracy.

Resonance Saving Throws

Only certain creatures are proficient in Resonance saving throws, typically those with supernatural origins, altered bloodlines, or occult empowerment.

Resonance Clash (Authority vs Authority)

When a Resonant effect is active, another creature with a Resonance score can attempt to overpower it.

Action or Reaction (once per round)

Roll:
d20 + Proficiency Bonus + Resonance modifier

Against the target’s Resonance DC

Results

• Success: The effect is suppressed until the end of the target’s next turn
• Success by 5 or more: The effect ends
• Failure: The effect acts as normal

Resonance Clash vs Spells (Authority vs the Weave)

A creature with a Resonance score may attempt to disrupt an active spell effect or a spell being cast. This is more difficult than clashing with Resonant effects.

Action or Reaction (once per round)

Roll:
d20 + Proficiency Bonus + Resonance modifier

DC equals:

10 + the spell’s level + the caster’s spellcasting modifier

Results

• Success: The spell is suppressed until the end of the caster’s next turn
• Success by 5 or more: The spell ends
• Failure: The spell continues as normal

A creature cannot use Resonance Clash against both a spell and a Resonant effect in the same round.

What Resonance Affects

Resonance interacts with abilities that are:

• Not spells
• Not affected by Counterspell
• Not affected by Dispel Magic
• Not suppressed by Antimagic Field

Resonance can attempt to interfere with spells using the special rule above, but it is less reliable than traditional anti-magic.

Increasing Resonance

Resonance does not increase through Ability Score Improvements. It increases only through significant story events, artifacts, or supernatural awakenings.