Sir Ludlow's greatest friend, the almost amusingly pessimistic Nigel loves the night life.

He's quite the gentleman dandy, always on the town. Yet Nigel lives alone because he has his share of secrets. In a past is shrouded in mystery, he has travelled the world and had great many adventures.

What little William and Tamara know of him amounts to this: once upon a time he was apprenticed to their grandfather, learning the skills of the magician. Now they realize that it was real magic Nigel was learning. Was Sir Ludlow teaching Nigel simple spells and enchantments, or training him to inherit the power of the Protector of Albion? The young Swifts do not know and Nigel will not say. All that is known is that some wedge was driven between the two men, and Nigel abandoned his apprenticeship.

In the wake of Sir Ludlow's death, the ghosts suggest that they might find safe haven with Nigel, and possibly a teacher as well. Nigel's period of training with Ludlow might help them master extraordinary power have been imbued with.

Despite their falling out, Nigel was always deeply fond of Ludlow. He mourns the old magician's death and reluctantly agrees to offer what help he may.

But Nigel's secrets may be even more dangerous than anything lurking in the shadows.