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Accepted
The lives of novices in the White Tower are hard ones. Typically, novices spend five to ten years in a highly structured environment, learning the ways of the White Tower and the One Power, with very little free time, many chores and the expectation of immediate obedience. When novices reach a certain level in their studies, however, they are tested to become Accepted. As Accepted, these initiates of the Tower learn what discipline truly is. The first ordeal for these women is the test to become Accepted. Candidates enter a ter'angreal where they must face their deepest fears—one each from the past, the present and the future. Some who take the test never return. They have the right to refuse to enter the ter'angreal, but three refusals result in being sent from the Tower; the chance to be Aes Sedai lost forever. Once these women have proved themselves in the crucible of the ter'angreal, they earn a greater degree of freedom. They are allowed more free time. Accepted are also allowed to question Aes Sedai. While novices are forced to learn certain subjects, Accepted have a freer reign to study those topics which interest them most. Some things are still proscribed for Accepted, however. Instead of the plain white dress of novices, they are required to wear white dresses banded at the hem and cuffs with the seven colors of the Ajahs. Accepted are awarded the Great Serpent ring, which they must wear on the third finger of their right hand. With these newfound, yet limited freedoms, come increased responsibilities. Accepted are often required to teach novices classes and are largely responsible for novices in general. Although they have power over novices, Accepted are expected not to abuse that power. They must maintain a difficult balance between a patient, caring instructor and a severe disciplinarian. While allowed to question Aes Sedai, Accepted are expected to ask pertinent questions without directly challenging an Aes Sedai's authority. It takes a larger transgression than those of novices for Accepted to be sent to the Mistress of Novices. By the time these young women reach the level of Accepted, they should behave in a manner that does not necessitate being sent her. Accordingly, any visits to her study tend to be more painful. Those who rise above themselves learn the hard way that they are still a long step below Aes Sedai. The lives of Accepted are hard. To make it to that level, though, requires much hard work and dedication. These women are just one long step away from achieving the status of Aes Sedai.
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