Scaleback Mountains
"Outside the dwarven realms, there may be no mountain range more steeped in history, more important a monument to conflict, and more stories than the Scalebacks. No person has discovered all their secrets; secrets dating back to the creation of the world. I tried but I got really tired and turned around." - from the memoirs of Lewin Von Treet, Vault: the Land of Stuff and Things
The Scaleback Mountains, known in Draconic as Hemfjall, or Mountain Home, is the ancestral home of dragonkind in Vault. While dragons can be found throughout the world, this mountain range is said to be the place where they were homed after the creation of the world.
Since Dragonfall in Highcroft, the Scaleback Mountains no longer act as a home for dragons but rather a symbol and goal for those who feel displaced. Many dragons made homes in other parts of Vault and have parented new generations. But especially the dragons of Vad will not rest until they soar the peaks of Hemfjall once more.
Before Dragonfall, the mountains were home to more than just dragons, however. While the might of the dragons made them the master of the mountains, Giants of many lineages roam the mountains and surrounding hills.
Giant and dragons, while not natural enemies, competed for resources in the mountains and were constantly at odds. It wasn't much of a conflict as the dragons were far and away more powerful, but with Dragonfall, the giants have gained power, resolve, and ambition. Those traveling the Scalebacks must be constantly wary of the presence of the giants, and incursions into Caim, Denizen, and surrounding areas is not uncommon, though often foolhardy.
The Scalebacks themselves are filled with labyrinthian corridors, jagged peaks, mist covered ravines, and winding tunnels beneath the earth holding untold magics and secrets. Most people believe most of the act of creation in Vault happened upon the Scalebacks. Pine forests line the foothills. Precious metals never before mined vein their way through the stones. Ancient ruins, settlements and wonders from the Constellation War, are said to sit idle amongst its peaks.
The Scaleback Mountains are one of the true undiscovered frontiers of Vault. Its dangers, its venerable age, its importance to the world, and its size makes them not just a monument for Highcroft but for all of Vault.