The genesis of the creatures known as Ropers dates back to the height of the Civil War, an era defined by profound magical turmoil. During this period, the ancient Gateways were twisted into conduits, opening into dark and dangerous extra-planar realms. This catastrophic event resulted in the limestone caverns beneath the Bukhara Spires becoming saturated with potent, necrotic magic.

Once inert stalagmites, these geological formations slowly absorbed the leaking energies, awakening with a malevolent sentience. This arcane impregnation instilled within them an insatiable hunger for the souls and life energy of any living being. From mere stone, they transformed into predatory entities, driven by an inherent desire to consume.

For centuries, these newly formed Ropers honed their predatory skills within the subterranean depths. They feasted extensively on the soldiers of the Civil War, who frequently utilized the underground tunnels for strategic flanking maneuvers. After the triumphant victory of The Dragonbone Vanguard, the Ropers retreated, receding deeper into the labyrinthine subterranean ruins they now inhabited.

Over generations, their hunting techniques became more refined and deceptive. Ropers learned to mimic the piteous cries of wounded explorers, luring compassionate souls closer with their convincing wails. They also cleverly arranged the gear of past victims, using gold coins and shiny gems to draw greedy scavengers directly into the lethal grasp of their tendrils.

A fundamental ambition drives Ropers: to consume enough arcane-rich blood to undergo a unique fission-like reproduction. They hold a chilling belief that they are destined to be the progenitors of a new, dominant species of living rock, reshaping the very essence of the subterranean world. Each successful hunt brings them closer to realizing this ultimate, terrifying goal.

Currently, one such Roper lies patiently in wait within a subterranean cavern. It is perfectly camouflaged, mimicking a natural stalagmite, its stony form indistinguishable from its surroundings. It remains motionless, silently anticipating the next unsuspecting individual to investigate the glittering pile of gold coins strategically placed within its deadly reach.