Speak with Monsters (spell)

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Speak with monsters empowers the caster with the ability to communicate with any sort of being possessing an intelligence of 1 point or greater. This enables the caster to ask questions, receive answers and even establish a dialogue that might include story-telling and mutual respect.

Speak with Monsters
Range self
Duration 10 rounds per level
Area of Effect 50 ft. circle
Casting Time 3 rounds
Saving Throw none
Level cleric (6th)

For the duration of the spell, the monster or monsters confronted will refrain from combat with the caster and his or her allies, unless an agreement to engage is made by the caster. This doesn't mean the monster is necessarily friendly, but the opportunity is there to parley with the monster and exchange grievances, come to an agreement, obtain passage through the monster's territory or make effective threats that give the monster reason to pause.

When role-playing the conversation, the DM must maintain a rational perspective for the monster; there's every reason to allow a give-and-take, but the monster will be as cagey and guarded as any other person in the game world. They may know the answer to a question, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're ready to provide it. They must be convinced, with their priorities being recognized by the caster.