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To Serve the Light

Written by syntaxerror37

Based on a concept by DiggerGallin

Sharn sighed as she looked at the main temple of The Church of Light. Just standing in front of the massive stone building made her feel embarrassed by her simple rags. She had done what she could to wash them last night in the river, but there was no doubt in anyone's mind that she was little more than street trash, a child of the back alleys of Vegradena.

Sharn took a deep breath and walked forward towards the open door. As she walked through the bronze plated door she felt the calming presence of the old temple. Sunlight filtered through the large stained glass windows and the candles and lamps added to the warm light. A young acolyte noticed Sharn standing just inside the doors and walked over to her.

"Welcome to the Church of Light, can I help you."

"Yes," Sharn said, her voice coming out as a squeak at first, "I'm here to volunteer."

He tilted his head to the side slightly, "volunteer?"

I heard you need people to, to," she searched for the word, "to serve the paladins."

"Do you mean as a squire? You look a little old for that."

She shook her head, "no, not like that as their, you know, beast they ride."

The acolyte's eyes widened, "I, ah, stay here please, I need to get a priest."

He rushed off into the temple. Sharn waited patiently enjoying the serenity of the holy place. The acolyte returned leading an older priest to her. Sharn bowed her head slightly, unsure how exactly to great the priest.

"You are the girl asking about becoming a mount?"

She nodded.

He gave her a slight nod then turned to the acolyte, "Gerold, you may return to you duties. Would you please follow me?" he gestured with his arm

"Yes sir," she said softly.

The priest led her through the temple and into a small room. There was not much in it besides a pair of wooden chairs, a small fireplace, and a simple tapestry with the Church's crest embroidered on it. Where the temple radiated a sense of calm and serenity, this bare room seemed warm and inviting to the street-rat.

"Please, sit," the priest gestured to one of the chairs.

Obediently Sharn sat in the chair. The priest sat opposite her, sighing slightly as he sat down.

"I am Father Cresthell, the master of acolytes."

"I don't want to be an acolyte, father," she shook her head, "I know I couldn't be."

"Gerold simply fetched me as I am his superior," he said softly, "any of us here can hear you request."

"Oh," she looked away embarrassed at her mistake.

"What is your name, daughter?"

"Sharn," she sighed, "just Sharn."

"Sharn, does your family know you are here?"

"I have no family," she met his eyes once again, "my parents died years ago, their bodies burned with the rest of the slum's trash."

He closed his eyes for a moment, "I am sorry, these are questions I must ask."

Sharn nodded, "It's alright, Father, at least I got to know my parents, that is better than most of my fellows."

"What has brought you to us?"

"I already said, I want to volunteer to be a...mount."

"Yes, I know, I meant what brought you to that decision?"

"An act of mercy and kindness, and I don't know how else to repay it."

Father Cresthell raised an eyebrow, "please explain."

"I was dying. You could say I was dying for months. I didn't even feel the pain of my empty stomach anymore. I was lying in the gutter just waiting for it all to end. I had given up. But then he found me."

"And who was he?"

"Sir Richflame, a Paladin."

"I know him by name, but I have not met him."

"He pulled me out of the gutter, even when I asked him to just let me die. He took me to a warm room and healed me, fed me, even gave me new clothes."

She could see the look Father Cresthell was giving her.

"I traded clothes with another girl before coming here," she smiled slightly, "I won't be needing them anymore."

"That was kind of you."

"I wanted to repay the mercy Sir Richflame showed me. I want to help the Church of Light and it's paladins, but I know I am just a weak stupid street-rat girl. I heard on the streets what you were looking for. How else could I help?"

Father Cresthell sighed deeply, "I know you have had a hard life. But do you understand what you would be sacrificing?"

"Sacrificing what? This?" she pointed to her body, "What good is this, a weak, stupid girl?"

"Please, Sharn, you may not be educated, but that doesn't make you stupid."

"If you say so, Father."

"You would be sacrificing your humanity. You wouldn't be a mindless beast, but you wouldn't be able to talk. You would also no longer be female, the mounts are always made male."

"I remember the great warhorse Sir. Richflame rode. He was kind to me, and I felt his kindness with no need for words. I would rather be like him than be like this even if it cost me my mind."

Father Cresthell folded his hands on his laps and watched Sharn intently. He was quiet for several moments before speaking.

"You are not the first volunteer I have interviewed." he said leaning forward slightly, "but I have never met one as...determined as you."

"So, you will accept me then?"

"I accept you as a candidate, but there is more before you are transformed," he stood up from his chair, "We will get you set up in the candidate's quarters for now."

Sharn smiled as she stood up, "I will do whatever it takes."

"Somehow, I know you will."

***

Joanna opened the small wooden box she kept by her sleeping pallet. There wasn't much in it, an old copper ring starting to go green with patina, a dried flower, two nice hair ribbons and a pretty feather she had found as a small child. All the treasure she had. Joanna placed the ring on her brother's pillow and the ribbons on her sister's. She placed the box with the dried flower on her parents bed, but took the feather with her, tucking it into her braided hair..

Her family was in the main room of their two room hovel. They were gathered at an old crate that served as a table. She paused smiling at her family until her father noticed her.

"There you are Joanna," he sighed, "don't just stand there staring, come and get your breakfast.

She managed a nod and hurried over to the table. Joanna's mother spooned out a thin porridge into a wooden bowl for her. She watched as her family ate their food in relative silence. She ate a few spoonfuls, not really hungry for once. Rather, she tried to think how to explain her decision to the rest of her family.

"Hey, Joanna," her brother gave her a poke, "about yesterday...thanks."

Joanna smiled.

"What happened yesterday?" her mother asked sitting down with her share of the porridge.

"Mom, what do you think it was," he sister sighed, "more trouble from the Smythe boys."

Joanna's mother turned to face her eldest child, " Joanna, what did you do to them?"

"They were hurting people, I stopped them."

"Mom, it's ok," her brother piped up, "she just grabbed the pair of them kicking and screaming and hulled them back to their mother. Any beatings they got were from her not Joanna."

"Light knows, those two deserve a thrashing," her sister huffed.

"Joanna, you are too strong, you know you could hurt someone without trying."

"I want to protect, not hurt." she crossed her arms, "the only thing I'm good at."

"Joanna," her father sighed, "we won't always be there to watch over you, to make sure you don't go too far in protecting your sister and brother."

"You won't have to," she pushed her bowl over to her brother and stood up, "I'm leaving."

"Joanna!" her mother shouted, "sit down and eat."

She shook her head, "No, It's time for me to leave."

"Leave for where? What kind of a job do you think you can do?" her father said standing up.

"I'm going to the church, they need people."

"Dear, you could never be an acolyte."

Joanna shook her head, "not for that, to become a...um..." she racked her brain for the right word. "Mount!"

Her family stared in shock. Joanna took a deep breath and tried to explain her feelings and decision.

"The only thing I'm good at is protecting. I'm not a good worker, I always mess up. I'm a burden to all of you. Let me do this, let me be something useful.

"But...you'd be an animal!" her brother said running over and wrapping his arms around her waist.

She patted his hair, "I know, I don't mind. Animals treat me better than people anyway."

"Joanna, I can't let you do this..." her father said rising to his feet.

"You know you will never marry me off. This is good for the family," she pointed to her bowl, "one less mouth to feed."

"Let her go," her sister said softly.

Everyone turned to face her.

"It doesn't matter how simple she is, she knows what she wants. We are her family, we shouldn't stop her, even if it means saying goodbye to her."

Joanna smiled at her sister and nodded. Her parents walked over to her

"Joanna, dear, are you sure about this?" her mother said softly

"There is no going back..." her father warned.

"I am, it's the way I can help the most people,"

Her mother pulled her into a hug, "At least let us walk you there..."

"I'm coming too!" her brother said.

"We all are," her sister got up from the table and joined them.

***

Sharn sat in the small room on the cot. She was told to just wait here in the room until she was summoned. There was little in the room, just a pair of cots with blankets and a small table just big enough for a lamp. Still the room was dry and the cot much more comfortable than the ground. When she heard the door open she jumped to her feet.

A different priest was at the door with a girl about Sharn's age.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you jump. I was just showing your roommate to her quarters.

"Oh, that's fine."

"It shouldn't be much longer now, daughter, but at least you will have company now."

"Hi!" the girl said with a big smile, "I'm Joanna!"

"I'm Sharn," she said, almost taken aback by the young woman's friendliness.

"If you will excuse me," the priest left closing the door behind him.

Joanna looked around the room before sitting on a cot. Sharn sat on the other cot unsure what to make of the girl. She was just slightly taller than her, but had more meat on her bones.

"You look happy to be here," Sharn said softly.

Joanna nodded, "aren't you?"

Sharn had to think about it for a moment, "I don't know if I'm happy, but I am glad they didn't turn me away. I know this is where I belong."

"Me too, I can't wait to be made big and strong and be able to help protect people."

Sharn looked at her own bony arms, "Yeah, I'm not going to miss this body," she managed a smile, "What kind of beasts do you think we will become?"

"I don't know, how many are there?"

"I know there are horses of course, I met one."

Joanna leaned forward, "what was he like?"

"He was as big as a draft horse, covered in armor just like his rider. You can see it in their eyes, they look nothing like an animal's, but they don't need to use words. Big and strong as he was, I could feel his kindness when he would rest his head on my shoulder."

"Is that why you came here?"

"Well, him and his rider. He saved my life. I don't want to waste it trying to eek out a life in the slums. I want to help other people, to fight against pain and suffering. To take an act of mercy and make the world better for it."

Sharn could see Joanna was a little confused by her words, but she seemed to get the gist of it, "what made you come here?"

Joanna sighed, "I'm not smart, I can't do anything right. My parents and sister and brother always have to make up for my mistakes. But there is one thing I am good at, I don't need to be smart to know when people are trying to hurt others, and I stop it," she held her head up high, proud of herself, "My family doesn't have much, and I can't help them get more. No one will ever marry me, I would be a burden to my brother and sister eventually, and I don't want that."

"So you would trade your humanity to be a protector."

Joanna nodded.

"I'm sure whatever form we are given you will do just that."

The door opened and an priestess entered followed by a young acolyte. She glanced down at a piece of parchment in her hands, "Sharn?" she nodded at her name, "Joanna?" the other girl did the same, "Good. I am Mother Kala, please take these tunics," the acolyte stepped forward and pulled a pair of folded tunics out of a basket, "as a candidate this will be all that you shall wear. Leave you old clothes in the basket outside your chamber door."

Both girls nodded.

"Change quickly, the opening ceremony will be beginning soon."

The simple linen tunic was nicer than most of the clothing Sharn had worn in her life. She had no issue pulling off her rags to put it on. Joanna slipped out of her simple peasants clothes and slipped the tunic over her body. She liked the clean simple look of it. As the pair was dumping their old clothes into the basket outside their door, they saw a line of other candidates walking silently behind a priest.

"Follow," he said softly looking over to them.

Sharn and Joanna took their places in the line. There were joined by a few more then led back to the main hall of the church. The doors were closed now and the light coming through the stained glass windows had faded. They were brought before the altar and told to kneel. An old priestess stood in front of the altar and addressed them.

"Candidates, I must thank you for volunteering for this path. My name is Mother Farra, the head of this temple. The very fact you are here right now says volumes of your character and dedication to the Light. That being said, there is no shame in walking away from this. If you have the slightest of doubts in your soul, leave now."

The church was silent, barely even breathing could be heard. Sharn faced the alter, barely blinking her mind completely set. Joanna smiled softly up at the priestess. As they knelt they heard some sobbing followed by the footsteps as the first candidate ran away. Several more followed. Some ran, others walked. After they had left the hall Mother Farra clapped her hands together making some of the remaining candidates jump.

"Please, don't judge them. For all you know you may be joining them before the end. Until this time tomorrow you are to fast and pray to prepare for the next step of your initiation. You will do this in silence. You may return to your rooms for the night. May the Light guide your path."

Joanna rose to her feet first and offered a hand to her roommate. Sharn smiled softly and took it. They walked back, following the others to their room. Sharn noticed the basket by the door was empty.

Perhaps they can use them as cleaning rags, she shrugged before entering her room.

Joanna was already kneeling in front of her cot. Her eyes were closed, and her lips moved silently. Sharn left Joanna to her prayers as she assumed a similar position at her cot.

I don't know what to say. I've never even been in a church before today, but...thank you for Sir Richflame. Thank you for giving me purpose. Please, let me serve you in whatever form you think I am worthy of.

Sharn's mind wandered as she remained on her knees. A day without food was just another day for her. And she often relied on being quiet to go unnoticed. At least she would be sleeping on a cot rather than curled up in a doorway.

I hope Joanna will be alright, she turned her head to look over at her roommate.

She too remained on her knees. Whether she was still mouthing prayers or had passed out kneeling Sharn couldn't tell.

She has a family still, she was taken care of and was never alone...I suppose she still isn't alone. I am here with her, she smiled slightly, I didn't expect to make a friend, but I think having one for my last few days as a human is a good thing.

An acolyte stopped into their room and told them to go to sleep. The young women nodded and he left. Sharn took off her tunic and hung it on a peg over her bed. She then pulled back the wool blanket and slipped into the cot. Sharn saw that Joanna had also hung up her tunic, but just stood there naked looking at her, a sheepish look on her face. She was puzzled, why didn't she just climb in her cot. It did come to her eventually what Joanna was silently asking her.

Sharn smiled and patted the cot beside her body. Joanna smiled broadly and quickly climbed in beside her and pulled up the blanket. Sharn hadn't felt a warm body next to her since her parents had died. She sighed and fell asleep quicker than she had in years.

***

As the sun rose the two young woman woke up. They put their tunics back on and sat on their cots waiting patiently. An acolyte came by with a pitcher of water for them. Sharn's stomach may have been empty but water freshly drawn from a well was far more refreshing than stale rainwater from a barrel.

Not too long after that, they were gathered up and brought into a small chapel. It seemed a few more candidates had left over the night. Sharn and Joanna took a place towards the front of the room sitting down on the simple wooden bench. An middle-aged priest stood in front of them.

"Good morning, I'm Father Kall. I know you were asked to fast in silence and pray for guidance, but you have not been told what you are preparing for," he held his hands behind his back, "For those candidates that make it to the transformation, your new form is not chosen by you, through The Light the form chooses you. There is a ceremony that will be held this evening at sunset. You will be shown what you are meant to be. However, some of you are already in that form. For now, I suggest you rest and prepare yourself. Feel free to use this chapel if you wish a change of pace from your rooms." Father Kall bowed slightly to the candidates then left.

Sharn and Joanna exchanged glances. Sharn shrugged and turned back to the front of the chapel. It was a change of scenery at least. Joanna nodded and folded her hands in her lap. The pair sat quietly in the chapel for some time. Some of the other candidates came or left over time. After about an hour they started to doze off. They ended up leaning against each other on the bench.

As she dosed, Sharn dreamed of the sky. Bright and blue it stretched out before her. Nothing was below her only the sky. She felt so happy surrounded by nothing but the wind and clouds. A soft touch on her shoulder, however snapped her back to her earthbound body. Startled, she jumped off the bench ready to fight or flee.

"I'm sorry!" a young acolyte jumped back, "Mother Kala asked me to check on you!"

Sharn let out a long sigh. She was embarrassed by her reaction, a reflex honed from her life on the streets. Before she could dwell on it anymore, she found herself wrapped up in Joanna's strong arms. She looked at her friend and saw the soft smile she wore. Just like Sir Richflame's mount, Joanna needed no words to show her kindness.

Sharn bowed in apology to the acolyte and the two young women left the chapel for their room. Once they got there, Joanna poured a cup of water for her friend. The water refreshed her and she soon drained the cup. Sharn smiled softly and placed her arm around Joanna. They stayed in their room for the rest of the day.

As the day drew to a close the candidates were once again gathered. This time they were in the main temple like last night. The mood was quite different than the last time. The lamps and candles that lined the walls of the temple were extinguished. Only the altar was illuminated. The air was heavy with the scent of incense. The priests and priestesses were dressed in their full vestments for the ceremony. They were walked up the center isle of the temple in a single file. Mother Farra stood front and center in front of the altar.

"In the name of The Light, I welcome you all here. You have come to offer your bodies in service to The Light. Tonight we shall see how best you may serve."

A younger priest walked up to her with a large platter covered with a beautiful silk cloth. She pulled off the cloth and folded it with practiced motions. Sharn and Joanna couldn't see exactly what was on the platter, but they were small and dark. Mother Farra held her hands over the objects and mumbled a long prayer. Sharn wasn't sure if it was a flicker of the candles or not, but she thought for a moment she saw a glow.

"Each candidate will step forward and take a stone. You will kneel at the altar holding it close against your heart." she took the platter and moved into position.

One by one the candidates followed her instructions. When Sharn picked up the smooth black stone it felt cold, but it quickly warmed in her hand. She knelt down, her back straight as she held the stone over her chest and waited. Soon all the candidates were kneeling in front of the altar. The priests in attendance began to chant. The chanting, the incense and her day spent fasting began to have an effect on Sharn. Her mind wandered from the shadowy temple back to the blue sky of her dream.

She was pulled back to reality by a voice singing a hymn to The Light. Her head turned to see it was the Mother Farra who was singing. When she finished the verse she turned from the altar and faced those in attendance.

"It is done. Now, look at your stones."

Sharn moved her hand from her chest and opened it. The small smooth stone was blue, like the sky from her dream. She was so surprised she almost dropped it. She looked over to the boy on her left, his was still black. Turning to Joanna Sharn saw her stone was the same shade of blue.

"Will all those with black stones please step forward."

Sharn watched the boy on her right stand up and approach Mother Farra. About a dozen candidates gathered at the front of the altar.

"My children, this is not the path for you. The Light has spoken, you are already in a form that will best serve the light."

The expressions on the faces ranged from anger to relief.

"We thank you for volunteering and there are ways you can still serve the light if you desire, but for now, I must ask that you leave us."

A pair of priests collected their stones and escorted them out of the temple.

"Will those with green stones approach,"

The vast majority of the candidates rose to their feet.

"The form of the horse has been chosen for you."

Those with red stones were chosen to become dire wolves. The one young woman with a white stone was chosen to become a unicorn. Then the ones with the blue stones were called. Joanna and Sharn were joined by the last two candidates.

"The form of the Griffon was chosen for you."

Sharn was shocked. She had assumed she would become another powerful horse, but a griffon. She looked over to Joanna who seemed more confused than shocked.

"My children, you have completed this step of your journey. You are free to speak again," Mother Farra said with a slight bow of her head.

"What's a griffon?" Joanna whispered into Sharn's ear

Sharn pointed to a relief carving on the altar, "right there, the body of a lion with the head and wings of an eagle.

"Oh, one of those..." she tilted her head as she looked at the carving, "they can fly?"

"Yes."

"Is that why I dreamed of flying today?"

"You...you dreamed about flying?"

"Yeah, it felt so good."

"I did too."

Mother Farra coughed slightly getting the candidates' attention.

"A meal has been prepared for you. Please eat your fill and rest well for tomorrow."

All of the candidates were excited as they were led to the dining hall. They talked with each other, excited about the results of the ceremony. As the doors open the smell of hot food washed over them, making them aware of just how hungry they were.

The thick hearty stew and fresh bread were simple, but to Sharn and Joanna they were a feast fit for any holiday. As hungry as she was, Sharn ate slowly enjoying every mouthful to the fullest. Her small body was full after just one bowl of stew and half her loaf of bread. She gave her other half to Joanna who quickly ate it along with a second bowl of stew.

Bellies full and still excited about the ceremony's outcome the pair made their way back to the room. Sharn sipped off her tunic and hung it on the peg. Looking down she swore she could see the swell in her gut from her dinner. She climbed into her cot and sighed.

"Sharn?" Joanna asked softly after hanging up her shift, "do you mind if I..."

Sharn shifted over in her cot and smiled, "hop in."

Joanna smiled broadly as she snuggled up next to her friend, "Thank you," she sighed, "I always shared a bed with my brother and sister, and now..."

"It's alright, I used to fall asleep between my parents before I lost them. It's nice to feel a warm body beside me again."

"Are you happy with being a griffon."

"I just wanted to serve, but to be a griffon to actually be able to fly..." she sighed, "I'm half afraid I'm going to wake up in a alley finding out this was all a dream."

"If it is, it is a good one."

Sharn smiled, "Good night, Joanna"

"Night."

***

After a simple breakfast the candidates were taken to a small courtyard within the temple complex. The sun was out and they were invited to sit on the grass. After they had settled in, Father Kall addressed them.

"Good morning, candidates. As we sit out here over in the Knight's Chapel young paladins are beginning their own ritual, preparing themselves to bind with their mounts. By this time tomorrow they will be ready, and thus you must be ready for them."

There were some murmurs among the candidates. Sharn and Joanna shared a smile.

"There are a things that must be explained, and questions that you have. I will be here to answer them, as well as one other," Father Kall sighed, "as soon as she gets here..." his tone showed a bit of frustration.

"Sorry! I'm here!" a voice called from across the courtyard.

The candidates turned to see a tall woman dressed in well made, but worn leather armor with a green hooded cloak. Walking beside her was a silver-gray dire wolf.

"Dame Astral, nice of you and Silverfang to join us today."

The paladin shrugged her shoulders, "I just sleep too well on a proper bed."

Sharn could swear she saw the wolf roll his eyes.

"At any rate," Father Kall sighed, "please introduce yourself and your partner."

"Hi," she smiled as she pushed her hood back and shook out her shoulder length wavy brown hair, "I'm Astral, well, Dame Astral if you insist on being formal. And this is my friend Silverfang," the dire wolf sat beside the Paladin and let out a soft bark, "we normally range up in the Great Woods, aiding the rangers in keeping the roads safe."

"Thank you, Dame Astral." Father Kall turned to face the candidates, "tomorrow you will undergo the magical process to become a paladin's mount. By this point we know you have already shown your dedication to this purpose, but we do not want you to face it with fear."

"Does it...hurt?" a young man asked softly.

Silverfang shook his head slowly.

"When magic is used to change someone's shape against their will there is great pain, the body, mind, and soul resist and fight the change," Father Kall said to expand on the wolf's answer, "you are willingly choosing this fate for yourself, there will be no pain."

"How do we find our, ah, partner?" a woman asked.

"I don't know how to explain it but you will both just know you are meant for each other." Astral said as Silverfang nodded in agreement, "I remember stumbling out of those doors over there," she pointed and the candidates looked over at a pair of heavy doors, "I could barely see straight, but I didn't want to let it on. I saw this silver-gray shape across the courtyard and I knew I had to move towards it. Lucky for me, Silverfang saw me as well and met me halfway," she chuckled at the memory, "As I touched him for the first time we both could feel the magic take hold."

"Is it true you can hear each other's thoughts."

"Not thoughts, deeper than that. We share our emotions, our feelings. It's like a...warm spot in the back of my mind that I know is Silverfang. I can feel him through it, and I know he can feel me," she leaned forward and they rested their heads against each other for a moment.

"The empathic link joins you to your partner together. Your minds are still your own to keep, but I've never known a paladin to keep their thoughts a secret from their mount."

"Oh Light no, sometimes I never shut up, right Silverfang?"

The wolf let out a groan but licked his partner gently on the tip of her nose.

Several of the candidates chuckled.

"How much of...me will be left after I change?" Another man asked.

"That is up to you," Father Kall replied.

The gathered people seemed confused, so he continued.

"You see, when the bonding happens the light gives you a blessing. You can chose to let go of any memories you wish."

"Why would I want to do that?" He asked again.

"People have their reasons, perhaps you feel life would be easier not remembering you were ever a female, or the memory of your family might be too hard to carry with you. Perhaps you have a horrible trauma you never want to revisit. This is why it is rude to ask a mount about their former lives, they may not know anymore and trying to think about it could cause them distress."

"And if they are in distress, we are too," Astral added, "and it doesn't matter, I don't care who Silverfang was, only who he is."

"If you want to remember everything, you will. If you wish to start your life over with a blank slate you will. More importantly who you truly are won't be changed by your new form."

Several of the candidates nodded.

"I have a question, but I don't know how to explain it," a young woman asked.

"Just give it a try, we'll figure it out," Astral said with a gentle smile.

"How do I learn how to, um, be a dire wolf?" She asked unsure.

Silverfang canted his ears forward.

"You will quickly adapt to your new body," Father Kall replied.

"And you don't just charge out of here the next day," Astral added, "we trained for two weeks together, learning how to fight as a team. During that time Silverfang learned how to use his senses like his hearing and scent to the fullest," she placed her hand on Silverfang's flank, "those senses have saved my rear many times over the years."

Silverfang let out a bark of agreement.

"That's what you and your partner will really learn, how to protect and help each other, to fight as one," Silverfang nodded his head, "After all these years, I can't imagine my life without him."

The wolf gently licked the paladin's cheek.

"Would any of you like to come up and pet Silverfang."

"Dame Astral," Father Kall turned to face the paladin, "he is not a pet for you to-"

"Oh relax Father, he likes getting petted."

Joanna got to her feet and walked over to the paladin and dire wolf. She bowed slightly to them before reaching out to touch the silver-gray fur of his flank.

"You feel soft," she smiled as she let her hands run through the thick fur.

"I brush him whenever I get a chance, it's hard keeping clean out in the deep forest," the wolf looked down his muzzle at his partner, "yes, it's hard for both of us. First thing we both did when we got in was take a bath."

The other candidates joined Joanna touching and petting Silverfang, and the wolf was obviously enjoying the attention. Sharn stood but hung back from the ones petting Silverfang. She smiled as she watched the huge dire wolf's reactions.

Were you once a wretch like I am? Weak, stupid, worthless, destined to die in a gutter and burned with the rest of the trash? Look at you now, a powerful creature who can make a difference. You can hold your head up with pride. I can't wait to shed this form and join you.

"Any more questions for us? Please speak freely," Father Kall asked.

"Thank you, father," Sharn said with a slight bow, "but I am more than ready for tomorrow."

There were nods and murmurs agreements from the other candidates.

"Very well, you are free to spend your time as you wish, but please gather in the dining hall at noon.

"Candidates," Astral said, sounding more serious than she had before, "I sincerely thank you for what you are doing for my fellow paladins," she bowed deeply, "may The Light watch over you and your partners."

They returned the bow before starting to disperse. Sharn noticed Joanna approaching the paladin. She went to see what her friend was doing.

"Thank you for talking to us, and you too," she smiled at Silverfang.

"You're welcome," She smiled at her.

Joanna pulled the feather out of the braid in her hair, "I want you to have this."

"A feather?"

She nodded, "my last treasure, but I don't need it anymore," she smiled softly, "I will have plenty of feathers after tomorrow."

Astral looked over to Silverfang who nodded slightly. She accepted the gift of the feather.

"Thank you, I will treasure it."

Joanna beamed before turning back and seeing Sharn, "you waited for me."

"Of course I did," she took Joanna's hand, "what do you think about staying outside for a bit?"

"I like that, we've been inside too long."

They found a place where they could lay down on their backs and watch the clouds slowly move across the sky.

"Sharn?"

"Yes?"

"What do you think clouds feel like?"

"I don't know, but we will find out soon," Sharn smiled

Joanna laughed, "Yeah..."

Astral watched the pair as they laid down dreaming of the sky. She turned the feather slowly between her fingers as she looked down at it. Silverfang gently nudged her arm, knowing her mood. She turned and looked into his amber eyes.

"I know you have no regrets, and The Light knows I'd be lost without you," she placed her hand on his massive head, "but it's hard for me to understand the sacrifice they, and you, made sometimes."

He tilted his head slightly as he looked at her.

"I guess we all make sacrifices for The Light, I just know I'm not as strong as you were, or those two girls are."

She could feel the warm comfort of Silverfang in her mind, the pride and love he felt for her.

Astral carefully slipped the feather into her belt pouch, "Let's go," she said softly.

Silverfang nodded, and walked with her out of the courtyard.

***

After a simple midday meal of bread and cheese the candidates were brought back into the chapel. A large book was set up on the altar. As well as a ink pot and quill. Father Cresthell was waiting for all of them to sit on the benches.

After the door to the hall was closed he moved to the book.

"Good afternoon. You have probably noticed this book," he gestured with his hand, "we record the human names of all our candidates. When you are ready come up and sign your name." he saw a few worried looks, especially from Sharn, "do not worry if you can not write, I will assist you."

"Why do you need us to do this?" A male candidate asked.

"Partly for our own piece of mind, but also for you. You are writing your name for the last time before you leave it behind. It is almost like writing your own name on a grave." Father Cresthell paused to let it sink in, "if you can't do that, then this is not for you."

"But, what about last night? The stones?" A woman asked.

"You have been accepted yes, and even told what form you will take, but acceptance of this must run both ways. If you have doubts, do not sign. I will not judge you, nor would anyone in this temple."

Father Cresthell stepped to the side, "sign when you are ready, if you can't then leave with our blessings."

Sharn rose to her feet without any hesitation and walked to the altar. She stood before the book and turned slightly.

"Father, could you?"

"Of course," he took the pen and dipped it into the ink. With practiced strokes he wrote Sharn's name. He dipped the pen in ink again and handed it to her, "please, make a mark next to your name."

Sharn nodded and made a simple 'x' before handing the pen back to the priest. As she turned to walk back, Joanna was already on her way up. She too left her mark next to her name. Joanna joined Sharn on the bench and sat with her hands in her lap.

One by one the candidates came up to sign their name or leave their mark. Two of them left unable to sign. After the last one signed Father Cresthell looked over all the names. He closed his eyes saying a silent prayer before closing the book.

"Thank you all. Tonight there will be a ceremony in the main temple followed by a feast in your honor. Until then, please remain in your rooms."

The candidates began to file out, but Father Cresthell held Sharn back.

"Yes, Father?"

"I am not surprised that you were the first to sign the book."

"Whatever is asked of me, I will do. I was ready when I first walked through the doors of the temple."

"We do these things for a reason."

"I understand, some people have something to lose by leaving behind their humanity. It's best that you find them and turn them away."

"Sharn, you are far wiser than you realize."

"I'm just a street-rat from the slums."

"If you say so, Sharn."

Sharn smiled slightly at her own words being said back to her.

"May I go?"

Father Cresthell nodded and Sharn turned to leave. Joanna waited patiently by the door and followed her out. The priest smiled sadly as he picked up the book.

If only I had found you first, you would have made a fine priestess. It seems, however, The Light has a different destiny planned for you. I hope your paladin understands just how much of a gift you are.

***

The Temple was fully illuminated this time. The candidates sat in the pews quietly watching the priestess lead the worship ceremony. Sharn and Joanna had never attended a service at the temple before so they were a little lost. They did their best to mimic the other candidates, but for once Sharn was glad to not be sitting in the front row. After about an hour the service came to an end. Mother Farra smiled softly as she addressed the remaining candidates.

"Good evening to you all. We have prepared a small feast in your honor. Please eat and drink your fill and accept our thanks to you and your sacrifice."

Is it really a sacrifice when you want it? Sharn thought as she got to her feet.

"Do you think they will have honey cake?" Joanna asked as they walked down the corridor.

"Maybe, they did say it was a feast."

When they walked into the dining room they found far more than just honey cake. Piles of meat, bread, hot vegetables, fruits, cakes of all sorts were laid out for them. Sharn almost cried seeing all the food steaming on the tables. Joanna helped move her to a bench and sit down. A huge plate of food was put in front of her.

"Thank you," she managed to whisper to the acolyte serving her.

Joanna smiled as she practically tore into her food.

"Mm, so good, come on Sharn, eat, I want to share a honey cake with you."

Her friend's words knocked her out of her stupor and she let out a small chuckle, "that sounds great," she put her fork into a plump sausage, "I've never even had a cake before."

Sharn had found last night's simple stew to be filling, but this feast was something else all together. Any time their plate was empty and Acolyte would come offering more food. Sharn was glad Joanna wanted to share the honey cake, because she doubted she could have eaten a whole one herself. A priest insisted they each take a mug of mulled spiced wine. Neither of them had ever had wine before and the single mug left them feeling warm and giddy.

Full near to bursting and with large smiles on their faces they excused themselves for the night. They were still a little giddy from their first, and last, taste of wine, but the walk to their room cleared their heads somewhat.

"So this is it," Sharn said after closing the door behind them.

"What is it?" Joanna asked.

"Our last night as humans."

"Yeah, it is." Joanna pulled off her shift and hung it on her peg, "Sharn?"

"Yes?" Sharn said as she hung up her tunic.

"Thank you for being my friend. I never had one before."

Sharn blushed softly, "neither have I."

"Do you think we can still be friends as griffons?"

"I never thought of that...I don't see why we can't be. Even if we are on other sides of the world, we can still be friends, I think."

Joanna sighed, "that's good. I think you are the only thing I don't want to lose."

Sharn went over to her and wrapped her arms tightly around her. Tears formed in her eyes.

"We're friends, it doesn't matter what we become, you are worth holding onto."

Joanna hugged her back even harder.

***

The candidates were brought in pairs to the small chapel. Sharn and Joanna waited on the bed holding their hands quietly. Time passed, and eventually it was their turn. They walked the familiar path to the chapel. The benches had been cleared out leaving just the altar. Mother Farra was waiting for them alone. Behind her on the altar were a series of gleaming metal goblets.

"Daughters," she said in a voice that is soft yet carried the weight of strength behind it, "I must ask you this one final time before we continue. There is no going back from this fate. You are sacrificing your own humanity to aid our paladins as their bonded mounts. No one will look down on you if you are to leave and continue your lives as humans."

Sharn shook her head, calmer than she thought she would be.

"There is nothing for me to go back to. I would already be dead in a gutter if not for the mercy of a kind paladin. I will do what I can to make the world a better place. I have nothing to offer but my body, so take it."

Joanna smiled, but took a firm stance in front of the priestess.

"I am doing this, it's the right thing to do. It's either this or be a burden to my family until the day I die."

"Very well," Mother Farra bowed slightly to the young women, "we thank you for your offering."

She turned to the altar and brought down a golden chalice. It was easily the most beautiful thing Sharn and Joanna have ever seen. Strange symbols decorated it and the crest of a griffon and the Church of Light are emblazoned upon it. She handed the chalice gently to Sharn. She was surprised, it was heavier than it looked. Inside was a dark red liquid.

"Drink," Mother Farra said almost a whisper.

Sharn lifted the chalice to her lips and swallowed several gulps of the liquid. It was strong tasting, but not unpleasant. The priestess took back the chalice and passed it to Joanna. Without a moment's hesitation she drained the remaining liquid.

A warmth seemed to spread out from their stomachs through their bodies. The first thing that changed was their size. Sharn grew in height and mass. The simple shift she wore grew tight against her now flat chest before starting to tear. Sharn looked over look over and saw a similar change in Joanna as her torn shift fell to the floor.

Sharn's and Joanna's loins were the next part to change. Testicles popped out of their vaginas as their clitorises swell and lengthened into penises. Their manhoods were small at first, but quickly grew to match their new size. They continue to change, becoming less human and more feline in shape complete with a fuzzy sheath to surround them when not in use.

Bones could be heard starting to pop and crack, forcing Sharn and Joanna onto all fours. Despite the sound and the jerking of their bodies, the pair felt no pain as the willing transformation continued. Their feet stretched and changed becoming powerful lion's paws, complete with sharp claws. Soon warm golden fur started to cover their hindquarters.

Their former arms lengthened to become front legs. Joanna watched as her fingers splayed out, growing thicker and stronger. her thumbs moved to the rear, shrinking slightly into spurs. Joanna's nails grew into sharp black talons. Dull gold feathers start to grow out from her skin, covering her arms, chest, and upper back. Joanna looked to her friend and saw her front covered in chestnut feathers.

Something new entirely began to grow out from their sides. Their wings started to sprout. Small at first, they quickly grew. It was good they had cleared out the chapel of most of its furniture as the pair have no control at first over the new appendages. The muscles and nerves took a few moments to map to their minds. Distracted by the new wings, Sharn and Joanna didn't even notice their lion like tufted tails growing out the back from their spines.

Their heads were the final part to change. Their hair grew out long, Sharn's changed color to a brilliant white while Joanna's was now somewhere between red and blonde. Joanna's eyes closed for a moment when when they open she saw the world as never before through eyes the color of burning gold. As the feathers started to cover their faces, their lips and noses started to change, growing out and stiffening until they sported powerful beaks.

Sharn and Joanna cried out from the pure the joy of their new forms. A cry like that of an eagle with the power of a lion's roar behind it. The transformation now complete, the pair of griffons slowly tried out our their new bodies. Flexing claws, swishing tails, playing with their wings, seeing what sounds they could now make.

This is definitely for the best, Sharn was so filled with joy she practically hopped around the chapel with Joanna, the world had no possible need of two more peasants. The old us were worth about half a copper piece together. The new us will be worth our weight in gold.

The Mother Farra approached the new griffons. The pair calmed down and showed her respect by bowing our heads.

"Sharn, Joanna..."

Sharn tilted her head to the side at hearing her name. Joanna let out a little cry showing her rejection of her old name.

"I know, those name no longer suit you two. But I won't be the one giving you your new names. Your partner will name you. Please, follow me to the courtyard."

She lead the griffons out the larger door to the outside. Sharn realized now why the chapel had a large double door leading to the courtyard. They were not alone in the courtyard. As they took in their surroundings with their new scenes they saw the other mounts. Fellow griffons, powerful war horses, large dire wolves, and a perfect unicorn. Each one greeted them with a nod or a tilt of a head. They milled around the courtyard waiting for their riders to find them.

The new mounts were not kept waiting long. The doors to the Knight's Chapel slowly opened, drawing the attention of all the mounts in the courtyard. Blinking at the bright sunlight young paladins in simple tunics slowly stepped out of the door. They were weak from fasting and praying for guidance during their ritual. Some even leaned against each other for support. Despite their condition, they smiled as they saw the gathered magical animals.

Sharn sat on his hunches waiting patiently, but the flicking of his tail showed how excited he was. Soon he would find his partner and they could fight together. His keen eyes scanned the crowd of paladins as they dispersed. One in particular caught Sharn's eye. The paladin's dirty blond hair hung over his left eye. The griffon could see the scar behind the bangs. This young man had also faced death before hearing his call. His good eye was a brilliant blue like the sky on a clear day. It locked with Sharn's golden eyes and he made his way past the other beasts to the griffon.

"Hello," he said, his voice showed no doubt or fear.

The griffon chirped in response. He held out his right hand and gently touched his feathered head. Sharn felt a new sensation. He could feel him, his emotions poured into the griffon and Sharn's flowed back into him. A warm glow that was his partner settled into the back of Sharn's head. They would never be alone again. Even when out of sight, Sharn would feel him and he will feel the griffon.

"My name is Karnen," he said smiling at him with love.

He know it was love, because he could feel it.

"How about you, boy, what should I call you?" he looked into the griffon's eyes as his hand gently caressed the feathers on his head, "What do you think of Farsight, after all I will be counting on your eyes."

He let out a cry of joy. Rearing up and fanning his wings before nearly toppling Karnen with his bulk.

Sharn is gone. I am Farsight, male griffon and mount of the paladin Karnen. Together we will do great things.

Karnen, laughed, feeling Farsight's joy as well as his own.

Farsight chose to not let go of the painful memories. He couldn't fight against pain and suffering without knowing them. Nor did Farsight ever wish to forget the kind old paladin who set him on this path with his kindness. He did let go of what it was like to ever be female.

Joanna watched as Farsight and Karnen found each other. Paying close attention to the happy scene, he didn't notice the paladin walking up beside him.

"Hello," a soft voice said.

Joanna snapped his head around surprised by the voice. This paladin is different from the others. He blinks and quickly realize that the paladin is a young woman, not a man. She smiles at the griffon with soft hazel eyes.

"You are the one I'm looking for, aren't you?"

She reaches out with her hand, shaky from the trial she just endured. The griffon moved his head, meeting her halfway. The bonding began and their emotions became linked. They could feel each other's joy and pride in finding one another. Through the soft glow in the back of his mind, the griffon knew how tired his partner was. He moved beside her, letting her lean against his warm body.

"Thank you," she whispers brushing her cheek against his, "I'm Feyra." she says running her fingers through the reddish gold crest of his hair, "and you, would you like to be Sunset?"

He politely agreed with a chirp.

My name is Sunset, I'm Feyra's mount! We will protect the weak together!

Sunset was happy, and he wanted to stay that way. He let go of his past, his family, his life. All he would remember was being a griffon. Sunset let it all go but one thing, Farsight is his friend.

Sunset helped Feyra to a shady spot on the grass. He laid down and encouraged Feyra to lay against his side. She smiled and quickly flopped on the ground next to Sunset, leaning back against his warm body.

Farsight looked back and forth between Sunset and Karnen.

He's not alone, Sunset has his partner now. And I know Karnen needs me right now.

"Is that Griffon your friend?" his partner asked picking up on the griffon's actions

Farsight nodded his head.

"Well that's good, because Feyra is a friend of mine, besides it's a nice shady spot to rest."

Farsight let out a pleased chirp and helped her partner over to the shade.

"Karnen!" Feyra called as they approached.

"Don't bother getting up," he smiled weakly, "I'm on my way down myself."

As he lowered himself to the ground in front of Feyra, Farsight curled up around him.

"So we both found griffons for partners, I guess that means we will be training together, again." Feyra chuckled.

Behind her Sunset squawked.

"Oh, how rude of me, Karnen, this is my partner, Sunset."

"Hello Sunset," Karnen gave a slight bow of his head, "this is my partner, Farsight."

"Hello Farsight, I'm Feyra, and old friend of Karnen."

"How are you feeling?"

"Physically, about as well as you are." she smirked back at her friend, "emotionally," she sighed snuggling back against Sunset, "I couldn't feel any better."

"I know what you mean," he ran his hand over the furry flank of Farsight.

"Do you remember Sir Granford?" Feyra asked softly as she continued to lean against her partner.

"Yes, Why do you ask?"

"I remember him telling this story once and in it he said he was too tired to sleep."

"Oh yeah, you said some snide things about that and he caught you doing so."

"Yeah. He said, 'one day you'll understand', " she sighed, "and now I do."

Some acolytes came along with jugs of water and bread for the paladins to help them recover. Though they were friendly enough, Karnen noticed how uneasy they were around Farsight and Sunset. They couldn't even look the griffons in the eyes.

They knew them as the humans they used to be. Maybe that is why we are kept separate as we go through our trials.

Farsight nudged his arm with her beak and looked at him with her bright golden eyes.

"You're right, I should eat." he took a big bite out of his bread.

Farsight chirped, and returned to surveying the courtyard. All around them the paladins were with their mounts, utterly exhausted from their trials. Farsight turned her attention back to Karnen.

Perhaps the feast last night was so we would be strong for them.

Sunset watched as Feyra slowly ate her loaf of bread.

"Oh, I'm sorry, are you hungry too?" she tore a piece of bread off and offered it to her partner.

Sunset shook her head and let out a chirp.

"Oh, right, I guess a griffon wouldn't eat bread," she blushed a little with embarrassment.

Sunset lowered his head and nuzzled her with his beak.

"They will teach us how to care for our partners before they train us to fight," Karnen said reaching for the water jug, "before you know it, we'll be the ones dotting on them."

"That reminds me of another story from Sir Granford," Feyra said with a smile

"Which one? He had a thousand stories."

She paused to yawn, "the one about the young paladin with a broken arm more concerned about a scratch on his partner's flank."

"And of course the horse was far more concerned about the actual broken arm," he chuckled and turned to Farsight, "try to keep me in line if I act like that."

He flicked his tail into Karnen's face as a response.

Not long after the young paladins had finished their bread they slowly fell asleep against the sides of their partners. Farsight and Sunset kept a careful watch over them. Even as they slept they could feel the warm emotions through their link.

***

A great feast was held to celebrate the joining of the paladins with their mounts. The gathering was held on the grounds of the church under giant tents. Many paladins had come to join in the celebration. After their nap the young paladins had the energy to enjoy the feast. Of course they never strayed far from their mounts.

As the night wore on paladins and mounts grew tired. Karnen walked with Farsight to the stable. He found an empty stall for the griffon. Farsight settled down onto the fresh straw, shifting around some to get comfortable. Karnen watched leaning against a post. Tired as he was, he didn't want to leave Farsight.

"I know what you're thinking." a voice called out behind him, making him jump.

"Dame Astral!' he said, trying to compose himself.

"Please, just Astral," she put a hand on his shoulder and looked over at the griffon, "I know what you're thinking, why not just spend the night here with him?"

"The thought had crossed my mind."

"Trust me, you will spend many nights curled up together in the field. They two of you should take advantage of proper beds while you have the chance," she smiled softly, "You won't be alone, he'll be with you and you'll be with him."

Karen nodded slowly, "good night, Astral."

"Good night," she clapped his shoulder before leaving.

He knelt beside Farsight in the hay and gently touched his feathered head, "I'll be back first thing in the morning."

Farsight touched her forehead against his and chirped softly.

"Goodnight, partner."

Farsight settled in for the night and tucked his head down between his front legs. He had just closed his eyes when he heard a tapping noise. Farsight looked up and saw Sunset at the front of the stall tapping on the post with his beak. Farsight tilted his head to the side then stretched out a wing, tapping the straw next to him. Sunset chirped happily and bounded over curling up next to the other griffon.

He did remember me, Farsight thought as he closed his eyes.

Author's Note

DiggerGallin, the person who had the original idea for this story is someone who cares deeply for charity work. We would like to take a moment to ask you to please consider donating your time, money or, other resources to a charity of your choice. Thank you for your time.