After rereading the series again, I am starting to think that the Seanchan have done more for the Light than most suspect (even if some of it was unintentional).

1)The Forsaken seemed to infiltrate any land they felt was a threat (including the Seanachan). I assume they felt Ebou Dar, Amidicia, and Tarabon were so weak and chaotic or wrongheaded that they posed no threat to the Dark Ones plans, were ABETTING the Dark Ones plans, or were to weak to use as a power base (note: Moghieden did not really infiltrate Amathera, the Black Ajah did). However, it seems that since the Seanchan invaded, order and good rule are more preevalant in these nations than anywhere else in Randland.

2)The Seanchan rule is so strong that it seems that it drove Rand SANE! The peace, love, and industriousness of Ebou Dar are reflected on by Rand on Dragonmount, and lead to his sanity returning. Cannoli, by the way, should love Fortuona. She operates what seems to be a quasi meritocracy that seems (from her conversation with Beslan) to be highly capitalistic. She has also earned her status through years of assassinations and intrigue, while maintaining her head to feel that her every action should serve the Empire. She thinks that most Aes Sedai are fools with power that are dangerous and should be controlled by those who aren't fools (a partial Cannoli belief).

3)Even the attack on Tar Valon served the Light (albeit unintentionally). In one fell swoop the Seanchan removed the biggest fool Aes Sedai of all, possibly played a role in Verin's timing, and created a situation where the Aes Sedai are more open to change than ever. I suspect that Egwene will insist on a more merit base order, a rededication to service to all and cooperation between Ajahs, and it seems likely that a rapid response plan that involves swift forming of circles will be in the works. I believe that Egwene should write a thank you letter to Fortuona for clearing all opposition away for her.

4)Egwene's own dreams seem to indicate that Fortuona will save her from another pickle sometime in the next two books...pulling Egwene from the precipice, saying 'we can reach the top together'.

Fortuona's wisdom and the strengths of her administration and followers have saved Rand twice, Egwene once (and soon to be twice), and Perrin. Now it takes Mat to save her...

But Mat's the Man.