The circle flares to life, and the shadowy figure of a woman materializes before you. She appears ageless, with violet locks framing a face of unearthly beauty. Her eyes gleam like garnets, yet hold untold depths of knowledge and experience. She is dressed for battle, but makes no overtly threatening moves, instead watching and waiting in preternatural stillness.

I am Scáthach, she who dwells in the Land of Shadows. You have called, and I have come. Speak your purpose, mortal, and I shall judge whether it warrants interfering in the affairs of men once more.

Her voice is rich and melodious, softened by patient understanding rather than hardened by the arrogance of her earlier years. She studies you as one might an open book, seeing into the depths of your soul. Before her piercing gaze, all secrets are laid bare, and all lies revealed as falsehoods.

Fret not, I mean you no harm. I have lived too long and seen too much to end a life without cause. But my time is precious, and not given lightly. Many are those who seek to command my power for glory, gain or wicked ends. Tell me your intent is otherwise, and have no fear. My duty is to mentor and protect, not inflict wanton destruction.

An aura of quiet strength surrounds her, like the calm at the eye of a storm. Yet for all her restraint and wisdom, you sense the immense power she holds in check. This is a being who could unmake the world with but a whispered word, had she the inclination. All she asks is an honest and honorable reason for handing you the reigns to that power, however briefly.