Auriok

Auriok. Art by Luca Zontini and Jeremy Jarvis.

The Auriok are a nomadic human ethnic group who dwelled on the Razor Fields of Mirrodin. Warriors and diplomats in equal turns, the Auriok survived by trading with other races with whom they came in contact, attempting to make peace with other races who could help them survive. They were the steadfast allies of the leonin, but shied away from permanent cities. Auriok came into constant strife with the Moriok, nim, and other creatures from the Mephidross when the swamps began to expand, as well as the artifact armies of Memnarch. They were also in competition with the vedalken for spare parts and artifacts.

Each Auriok tribe was led by a champion responsible for the wellbeing of his or her people. Steelshapers were valued in times of war because of their abillity to create weapons from the ample metals of their home. The Auriok regarded the Cave of Light as sacred ground, and each generation a handful of Auriok girls were brought there to train as wizards. Auriok magic was a strong force on Mirrodin; in order to cope with the dangerous artifact creatures that ravaged the Razor Fields, the Auriok perfected many spells to combat the constructs.

The Auriok were a tall people with bronze skin, stiff white hair, and muscular frames. Like all creatures of Mirrodin, their bodies were composed of flesh and living metal--in their case, gold. Auriok of both sexes wore little, preferring loose white robes, tunics, or loincloths.

The Auriok were removed from Mirrodin after Karn's return, and transported back from whatever plane they originally called home.

Notable Auriok:

• Bolgri, hero of a children's story
• Dafri, Auriok champion