- For other Speak with Dead spells, see Speak with Dead.
Much like the 3rd-level priest spell, this spell enables the necromancer to ask questions of a dead creature. The necromancer can ask at a rate of one question per round to a maximum of seven questions (see table). A portion of the creature's remains must be touched by the necromancer and questions must be posed in language known to the dead creature. The length of time the creature has been dead is a factor. The spell does not function under water.
The dead tend to give extremely brief and limited answers, often cryptic, and to take questions literally. Furthermore, their knowledge is often limited to what they knew in life.
At the DM's option, the casting of this spell on a given creature might be restricted to once per week.
The material component is a pinch of unconsecrated graveyard dirt. Some portion of the creature's remains are required.
Notes: Restricted to necromancers (common) and, optionally, diviners (uncommon).
| Caster's Level |
Maximum Time Dead |
Time Questioned |
Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| To 7th | 1 week | 1 round | 2 |
| 7-8 | 1 month | 3 rounds | 3 |
| 9-12 | 1 year | 1 turn | 4 |
| 13-15 | 10 years | 3 turn | 5 |
| 16-20 | 100 years | 2 turns | 6 |
| 21st-up | 1,000 years | 6 turns | 7 |
Option: In some campaigns, the DM may allow other wizards to research speak with dead as a 4th-level spell (the 2nd-level version is not available to them). The spell details remain the same.