Niamh O'Ferrell
Niamh O'Ferrell (*1949) is a seasoned witch with the rank of Master and an esteemed teacher at the Greannmhar School of Magick.
Personality
Niamh has a sharp and stern countenance which often belies the deep care and concern she feels for her students. This demeanor is the result of the trials and tribulations she faced earlier in life, which have left a lasting mark on her. One would do good not to underestimate her drive to achieve her goals, as well as her will to protect those she cares for.
Apperance
With her striking red curls cascading around her shoulders and her piercing ice-blue eyes, Niamh exudes an aura of power and authority that demands respect. Her "resting death stare face" often scares people and students alike, and often belies the deep care and concern she feels for her students.
Teaching at Greannmhar
Niamh teaches arithmancy and warding, which she shares with Alistair MacRoyce. Her contributions to the Greannmhar School of Magick have been invaluable. As the head of the Spirit Coven, she has played an instrumental role in shaping the curriculum and fostering a community where students can thrive.
Niamh is a compassionate mentor who understands the importance of nurturing the next generation of witches and wizards. Her keen insight and intuitive nature enable her to guide her students through their magical journey, ensuring they grow not only in power but also in wisdom.
History
Niamh had to endure several tragic and difficult events in her early life which shaped her personality and priorities.
Several close members of Niamh's family were Wardens, or otherwise involved in countering dark magic. When she was still a child, a dark wizard poisoned some them with wildrage potion during a family reunion. Some of the victims tore each other apart, the survivors succumed to the addicting effect of the potion. This event instilled in her the importance of mastering defensive magics, fighting curses and understanding the consequences of dark forces.
Shortly before she reached the rank of Adept, Niamh learnt that a trusted mentor and friend of hers secretly practiced forbidden dark arts. This betrayal left her with a lasting sense of caution and sharpened her ability to discern the true intentions of others.
When trying to learn more about the dark arts that was seemingly haunting her, Niamh began to dabble in controversial magical practices as well, which lead to unintended consequences. Although she does not speak about what happened, it did compell her to embark on a personal quest to right the wrongs she had caused. During this time she learnt the importance of responsibility and ethical decision-making.
After years, Niamh met her former mentor again. She was eventually forced to duel the woman, who turned out to be a formidable dark witch. The battle pushed her to her limits and left her with physical and emotional scars, but also served as a testament to her immense magical skill.
When she was in her 30s, Niahm was abducted by a group of dark wizards who sought to exploit her spiritual expertise for their own nefarious purposes. She managed to escape, but the harrowing experience reinforced her dedication to teaching and mentoring young witches and wizards so they could defend themselves should they ever find themselves in a similar situation.
Wand
Niamh's wand, reflecting her stern and protective nature, has the shape of a gracefully twisting branch, reminiscent of the guard of a Celtic warrior's sword. The hilt-like design provides a secure grip, while the wand's wood displays a deep, rich hue with subtle, silvery veins running throughout. At its tip, a small, delicate, yet powerful crystal is embedded, symbolizing her deep inner strength and resilience.