Padiel was an avatar created by the people of Sintra to allow for instantaneous communication over long distances. He was a friend of the Doctor.
Padiel was summoned by John Dee, who had obtained a copy of The Steganographia. When Padiel appeared, Dee fainted at the sight of him. Padiel then happily greeted the Sixth Doctor and was introduced to Evelyn Smythe. (PROSE: Mortlake)