Lucifer awakens in a cell and learns from a fellow prisoner that relics are being sold from excavation sites to finance a larger operation and that the "Superior Funerals" undertakers are part of a smuggling racket.

Victor has completed the work of his father, as scientist who was driven mad and died some time ago.

His intent is to trigger a massive volcanic eruption, which will spark a chain reaction that will ultimately destroy Italy.

Lucifer himself is taken to a volcanic vent and to be steamed to death but escapes and manages to rescue his companions after capturing Bowler.

The device is only stopped when Bowler uses the steam vent to prevent the bomb being delivered to the right part of the volcano, but the detonation triggers a minor eruption and everyone must flee for their lives.

Lucifer's heterosexual love interest, Bella, appears and reveals she is the daughter of a man he killed in the early chapters of the book as part of a routine assignment.

In addition to being a portrait painter, wit, dandy and indiscriminate rake, Lucifer Box is an agent of His Majesty's Secret Service, reporting to Sir Joshua Reynolds.

Christopher Miracle: Fellow painter and friend of Lucifer Box who assists his investigation and later becomes a murder suspect.

Charlie Jackpot : Handsome gay youth who provides useful information, access to the Vesuvius Club and valet services and sexual distraction for Lucifer Box.

Entered the service of Lucifer after his previous servant, Poplar, was shot in the back on a Serbian railway station.