Names

Names are what give immortals (Dragons and Barrani) life, though they can exist without them.

Barrani

When Barrani are born, they are asleep. They do not wake up until given their true name by the Consort. No one, not even the Consort, knows the name.

If a Barrani wishes to learn their true name, they must take the Test of Name, and pass. Many have died trying. If they pass, they are then known as a Lord of the Barrani Caste Court, with all that the title entails.

Most Barrani Lords keep their names very closely guarded, since someone who holds your name can use it against you. Another thing that happens when someone holds someone's true name is that they can communicate telepathically and can sense each others feelings. This is demonstrated with Kaylin and Nightshade and Kaylin and Severn, when Nightshade gave his name to Kaylin and when Kaylin gave her name to Severn.

Kaylin Neya is the only known non-Barrani to have a true name. Severn is known as Lord by the Barrani because he survived with Kaylin, but he does not have a true name.