Heavensward Race Survey (from reddit)

[Velox]

Yeah, I'd like a definitive answer. I don't mind them being debated lore wise, but having a possible but unproven "yeah they're demons" or "yeah they just LOOK like demons" or whatever is confusing.

They aren't demons nor dragons. They are a completely, independent race. they are modeled AFTER demons though, much how Miqo'te are modeled after cats, but aren't cats themselves.
Also based on the replies given here

Aura are not related to Dragons. Their motif are demons.

[MyKotoShi]

snip

The reddit post is part of the problem. Either the full statement wasn't translated entirely/accurately or the poster is withholding information to make the post brief. From all information I've come across on several fields tell me this:

・Au Ra are believed to be decedents of dragons (lack of further information - horns and tail, and out-racial unfamiliarity fearing this races appearance to be something they are familiar with; dragons).
・Scholars dispute this due to: Dissimilar hearing (dragons hear from their ears, not horns) & reverse height development (Female dragons are commonly larger than males, a trait inspired from dinosaur research)
・Au Ra clans don a "tribal warpaint" in a "...their motif are demons." This would explain the horns in some hairstyles, limbal ring may be artificial. Living in mist environments might have influenced a demon lifestyle over a dragon one.


Overall, I personally don't want to say they are either or, but I'm hoping lore will reveal who these people really are.
It just better not be a Padjal thing.

[Findel]

I hate that I'm such a minority before and even worse AFTER!

[Alacran]

I hate that I'm such a minority before and even worse AFTER!

Friend, there's nothing wrong with being unique. History remembers individuals. In terms of game setting, you should value the fact that you stand apart from the rest. Embrace the fact that while others believe they are beautiful unique snow flakes like everyone else, you actually define it.

[Coombah]

Friend, there's nothing wrong with being unique. History remembers individuals. In terms of game setting, you should value the fact that you stand apart from the rest. Embrace the fact that while others believe they are beautiful unique snow flakes like everyone else, you actually define it.

I couldn't have said it any better.