I figured it was either what it turned out to be or something very similar, trying to show that Wise Ones have to leave some of that "maiden of the spear" pride behind. Much like with Rand and Egwene, teaching her to bend more. Regardless of the reason, I was pretty sure they were waiting for her to snap at them. I just wasn't sure if that was a test for all Wise Ones or just for those who see their toh a little too strongly.

SPOILER ALERT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Since you mentioned Bair, I'll bring up another thought I had. At first, I was wondering whether it's Bair or Sorilea who is the darkfriend? They were the only two there to see Cadsuane undo her trap she had set on the box holding the Domination Band. I figure one of them had to be the one giving it to Semirhage. However, I looked back and found that Bair is one of the Wise Ones who can't channel. Is Sorilea the darkfriend a little too obvious? I'm wondering why Cadsuane, at least, hasn't looked into that. Seems to me that would have been her first thought, even if it turns out not to be the case. (Maybe Elza was there the first time she set the trap, for instance.) I can't think of any other reason for Sorilea to ask to see it though.