I was kinda thinking along the lines of it being set in a mythical world (like in most RPG type worlds for want of a better explanation).  Technology exists, but those that use it don't really share it much (maybe the realms of magi-technology and the like would be plausible in such scenario's).  I hope this helps answer your question.<br/><br/>As to Sinol, Sinala and Ikaria would have at least known about each other, so yeah...they could have been dorm mates since the second year if you wish.  Also as a note to players of the characters that aren't first years, feel free to make up relationships you've built up over the years you may have known each other via PM or such, since you would have probably bumped into each other at least once in your travels around the school.  ^_^