Detect Balance

This spell allows the druid to determine if non-neutral forces and alignments are at work in the area of effect (upon or in the object or creature being examined). An alignment that is partly neutral (such as that of a neutral good priest) radiates a mild aura, while an alignment that has no neutral component (such as that of a chaotic good fighter) gives off a strong aura. The spell does not determine exact alignment, but only tells the druid if the object or creature being examined is something other than true neutral; a paladin and a chaotic evil thief, for instance, radiates the same aura at the same strength.

The spell doesn't function on nonliving items that do not have a natural aura (such as a vial of poison), but works on an object such as an aligned magical sword. Creatures that are under the effect of an unknowable alignment spell or similar magic don't radiate any aura when this spell is used upon them. If the magic is used upon something or someone that exudes a true neutral alignment (such as another druid), it produces a smooth, well-balanced aura identifiable as one of neutrality.