You stated that Lamothe was bonding you during your Mutual Challenge. Are you 100% sure about that.

Don't forget about the curse of Paranoia that can be given by a poison on a sword or spit. The first or second line received from that is A shadowy figure bonding against you.

Just a thought.

Regards. Lord Cimares.

Written by my hand on the 29th of Ilmarael, in the year 1033.