Is there any way to have ability scores above 20 without having magical items? Or is this the only way?
Background of why question was asked: I guess if it is, it is then up to the DM to decide when players can go above 20. Unless there are spells I do not know that can create magical items that increase abilities so characters could make themselves magical items that increase abilities.
The reason I ask is if there is away to increase beyond 20 without the DM allowing it, i.e. character progression and choice.