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 scanned). An alignment that is partly neu- tral (such as that of a neutral good cleric) will radiate a mild aura, while an alignment that has no neutral component (such as that of a chaotic good fighter) will give 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, will radiate the same aura at the same strength. The spell will not function upon non-living items that do not have a natu- ral aura (such as a vial of poison), but will work upon an object such as an aligned magical sword. Creatures that are under the effect of an unknow- able alignment spell or similar magic will not radiate any aura when this spell is used upon them. If the magic is used upon something or some- one that exudes a true neutral alignment (such as another druid), it will produce a smooth, well-balanced aura identifiable as one of neutrality.