intent of rule - Search

The Role of Rules

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

running. There are times, though, when the design intent of a rule isn’t clear or when one rule seems to contradict another. Dealing with those situations is where Sage Advice comes in. This column

perspectives. RAW. “Rules as written”—that’s what RAW stands for. When I dwell on the RAW interpretation of a rule, I’m studying what the text says in context, without regard to the designers’ intent. The

The Role of Rules

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice & Errata

, though, when the design intent of a rule isn’t clear or when one rule seems to contradict another. Dealing with those situations is where Sage Advice comes in. It doesn’t replace a DM’s adjudication

. RAW “Rules as written”—that’s what RAW stands for. When we dwell on the RAW interpretation of a rule, we’re studying what the text says in context, without regard to the designers’ intent. The text is

Piercer

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Monster Manual

release their grip and plummet, intent on impaling prey in a single strike. If they’re successful, piercers consume their meals and then slowly climb to a new ambush position. If they miss or fail to

ropers as they can to avoid ropers’ undiscerning hunger. Many piercers migrate vast distances through the Underdark, often to caverns or buried ruins near the surface. Rule 8: Never trust a stalactite

Wizard

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

of a book, complete with all its text, if the wizard hasn’t seen all the text? No. In the case of a multipart object, the intent is that you must have seen all parts of the object to duplicate those

to cast a ritual spell contained in their spellbook, do they need to read from the book or use it as part of the ritual? No. As written, the rule doesn’t require you to read from the book. The

Magic Items

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

set it (see the rule in the DMG , under “Spells”). Which is correct in the Dungeon Master’s Guide, the rule for scrolls or the rule for a spell scroll? They’re both correct. The rule for scrolls (DMG

"Scrolls") is for scrolls in general, including a scroll of protection, and it allows you to try to activate a spell if you’re literate. The rule for a spell scroll is specific to that type of scroll

Sorcerer

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

higher? No, the sorcerer must follow the rule for casting a spell as a bonus action and casting another spell on the same turn; the other spell must be a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action. Can my

level If you know this rule yet are still unsure whether a particular spell qualifies for Twinned Spell, consult with your DM, who has the final say. If the two of you are curious about our design

4. Tortle in Torpor

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Locathah Rising

be a powerful ally for the party, though the tortle’s vow to never harm humanoids is not negotiable. Amble doesn’t necessarily expect others to follow this rule, but will encourage them to do so

self-identify as either male or female. They are a member of the Circle of Dreams and has laid several clutches of eggs while traveling the Feywild. Amble’s Rule. The tortle will never attack a

Bard

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

ability check while it is under the effect of a guidance spell and also has a Bardic Inspiration die, it can roll both a d4 and a d6 if it so chooses. Is the intent that a bard gets to know the number

spell learned through your Magical Secrets feature counts as a bard spell for you, so it can be replaced upon gaining a bard level later. But it must be replaced by a bard spell, according to the rule

Lady of Masks

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Storm King's Thunder

enemies who yearn to topple her. As a powerful wizard and noble, Sansuri believes it is her duty to rule over others and command their respect. Even so, she has been forced to bow to the will of King

. Sansuri attacks characters who are clearly being disrespectful or deceptive. She also turns on those who seem intent on robbing her. If she loses more than half her hit points, Sansuri casts a fly

Rogue

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

rule states that if you are surprised, you can’t move or take an action. A surprised rogue can use Evasion, since that feature doesn’t require the rogue to take an action or move. Can the rogue’s

stops being surprised at the end of its first turn in combat. Does the Thief’s Use Magic Device feature allow them to use spell scrolls? Yes. The intent is that a Thief can use spell scrolls with Use

Genies

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Monster Manual (2014)

found on the Material Plane. The rest reside on the Elemental Planes, where they rule from lavish palaces and are attended by worshipful servants. Genies are as brilliant as they are mighty, as proud as

wind, a flash of fire and smoke, or a burst of water and foam. Rule or Be Ruled. Mortal servants validate a genie’s power and high self-opinion. A hundred flattering voices are music to a genie’s ears

Combat

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Sage Advice Compendium

sides. What happens with surprise when a third group of combatants sneaks up, hidden from the melee, and ambushes? The surprise rule is relevant only when a combat is starting. Any ambushes during the

. Can you move through the space of a prone enemy? The prone condition doesn’t override the rule that prevents you from moving through an enemy’s space, unless that enemy is at least two sizes larger or

Lady's Ward

Compendium - Sources->Dungeons & Dragons->Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse->Sigil and the Outlands

power does—the power to influence, administer, and evade the rule of law. Despite its luxuries and breathtaking vistas, the Lady’s Ward is quieter than other wards, its solemn streets frequented by

angel detests lies. Factol Hashkar, leader of the Fraternity of Order. Madam Rule, a scornful pit fiend known for her harsh interjections and screeching metal gavel. Matias Tapia Kolyarut Hall of

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