Understanding
(Divination)

Range:  5 feet per level
Components:  V, S
Duration:  1 round + 1 round per level
Casting Time:  4
Area of Effect:  One creature
Saving Throw:  Negates

This spell allows the wizard get use both ESP and empathy on a creature if it fails a saving throw versus spell with a -2 penalty. For more detailed information, like memories or motivations, someone else must ask the wizard the question. The wizard's player can under no circumstances supply questions for other people to ask! Doing so ends the spell immediately (forcing the wizard back into his own mind). One question per round is reasonable for easy questions, but long or complicated questions can take longer (up to the DM). A common language is not needed between wizard and target, and the wizard always replies in the tongue he uses most. While the spell is in effect, all the wizard can do is answer questions without ending the spell. The spell can be ended at any time, simply by willing it to end.
For example: a wizard casts understanding on a dragon attacking a town, and learns (by ESP and empathy) that it is angry and plans to destroy the town. The wizard's apprentice asks the wizard why the dragon is attacking, allowing the wizard to probe the dragon's memories, and to discover some humans stole the dragon's eggs. The wizard lets the spell end, to try to bargain with the dragon.

