Who is Juan Manuel de Ayala from The Magician and what is their importance?

Juan Manuel de Ayala discovered Alcatraz Island long ago. Juan's spirit returned to Alcatraz after his death because of his deep love of the island during his lifetime. Perenelle hears his voice while she is imprisoned in Alcatraz and asks for his help. Juan distracts the sphinx long enough for Perenelle to escape and then helps her find the spider-like elder who helps her defeat Morrigan.