Shilku Bay is a ruined coastal location in Chult that serves as both a cautionary landmark and a potential reconnaissance mission site in the Tomb of Annihilation adventure.
Geography and Current State
The bay is defined by ongoing volcanic activity — lava continuously erupts from the volcano that destroyed the nearby village of Shilku, flowing like a glowing river into the water. The sulfurous water is poisonous, resulting in dead sea life throughout most of the bay and a barren surrounding shore. The bay remains hazardous, with red-hot stones occasionally raining from the sky and burning ash drifting miles out over the water before extinguishing.
Despite the dangers, safe landing spots exist along the western shore, making it a viable coastal landing site for expeditions into Chult’s interior. Ships that approach the eastern shore near Shilku itself risk severe damage to their sails and hull from falling volcanic debris.
Role in the Adventure
Shilku Bay serves as one of several coastal starting points for expeditions into Chult, alongside locations like Jahaka Bay, Kitcher’s Inlet, Refuge Bay, and Snapping Turtle Bay.
The destroyed village of Shilku is the subject of a reconnaissance mission offered by Liara Portyr at Fort Beluarian. She asks adventurers to sail to Shilku Bay, conduct a one-week reconnaissance of the ruins, and report their findings. Characters who accept receive paid passage, food, and a free charter of exploration. Successful completion grants them free meals and guest rooms at Fort Beluarian on future visits, plus one potion or scroll from the fort’s stores.
Historical Connection
Before its destruction, the village of Shilku was connected to the dwarven forge at Hrakhamar via trade roads. These roads once linked Shilku Bay to other points on the peninsula, facilitating commerce with the dwarven mining operations.