It took a few seconds for the rest of the Lords to join in, but there was no way they would remain seated when their Primus was on his feet. Mauve slowly approached the table, and she heard a slight gasp but nothing more as the hall plunged into further silence.
They all remained standing until Jael sat down, and he didn't sit until Mauve was seated. As he sat, Jael turned to examine Mauve, and his eyes froze on her neck. Mauve adjusted in her seat, wondering if this was the right plan, but she knew that keeping it hidden wasn't the way to go. If the Lords were all willing to let her endure something like this, then they should have the stomach to see the bruises left behind.