In the first season of the Shannara Chronicles, the dark elf Dagda Mor and his demonic hordes break though the barrier of the Forbidding to conquer the Four Lands. But before they can attack the realms of elves and men, the demons have to gather their strength. Their hiding place: White Island - New Zealand.
The Maori call it 'Te Puia o Whakaari' which means 'The Dramatic Volcano' - a rather fitting title given that the island is New Zealand's most active volcano.
Sulphur was mined on the island for some years at the end of the 19th century and again between 1913-1914. Life on Whakaari was tough for the miners, and in September 1914 the production came to a halt when a lahar killed all 10 workers stationed on the island. Only the camp's cat survived.
The remains of the mining factory.
These days, the only human visitors are the day tourists who arrive by boat and helicopter. With Dagda Mor long gone and the seismic activities constantly monitored, it is as safe as it can be. Still, it's a strange feeling standing on an active volcano 50 kilometres away from the coast.
Stefan flew to White Island in January 2018 with Frontier Helicopters.
If helicoptering to Whakaari is out of the question, try White Island Tours who offer daily tours from Whakatane, weather permitting. Regardless of your mode of arrival, tour operators will allow for sufficient time to explore the island on a guided tour.
While the Dagda Mor gathers his demon army, the elven princes Ander and Arion decide to take matters into their own hands.
Without any backup, Ander and Arion decide to confront Dagda Mor in his hideout.
Dagda Mor is already waiting for the princelings.
Ander and Arion are no match for the master of demons: only Ander makes it out alive.