<quote? 3) Rahvin being strong as Ishamael is a surprise, but remember... this only emphasizes that actual OP strength is only one part of the story. Rahvin certainly wasn't as skilled as Demandred, Lanfear, Graendal, Semirhage and Moridin. Sammael may be in that list too, but those five, regardless of OP strength level, seem to be the best with the OP among the Forsaken.

Well yes, but on the other hand the difference between 1,2 and 3 might be rather small, such as between Moiraine and Leane. I doubt Ishamael is more than 5% stronger than Demandred.

Contrary to this, I think the most pertinent example will always be Aginor who is very strong but strikes me as someone who never practiced with the Power. I expect someone weaker like Egwene who is strong in several flows and dedicated to self-improvement and practice could sit among the Forsaken if it came to it.