Hrathen turned to Dial. “The first step in taking control of a nation, Arteth, is the simplest. You find… — Brandon Sanderson

They needed to work and improve their own lives, not wait for some external miracle.

You will find that hate can unify people more quickly and more fervently than devotion ever could.

“Eventually I found the best source of information to be the soldiers with guard the city walls.”

“I’ve heard of them,” Sarene said, looking over her clothing. “They’re supposed to be the most elite fighting group in Arelon.”

“And they are very quick to tell you so, my lady,” Ashe said. “I doubt many of them would know what to do in a battle, though they seem quite proficient at cards and drinking. They tend to keep their uniforms well pressed, however.”