"I want the training first." Mike was pretty sure this was the best course. If he didn't like what he learned about being a warhorse, he could always change his mind.
Liam nodded and left the stall for a short time while the knight regarded him with admiring eyes. "You are going to be so magnificent! And the adventures we will have!" The stableboy returned with a small box that he opened to pull out a small black figurine. It was a nicely detailed onyx carving of a draft horse with heavy tack and even some armor. Holding in gingerly, Liam moved to stand in front of Mike and said "Bend over. I need to touch this to your skull."
More magic of some kind, Mike guessed. He leaned over as far as he could, surprised that it was hard to bend at the waist. For the first time, he realized that his upper body had altered in ways that made him more horselike. But before he could react, Liam touched the carving to his forehead.
The blast of knowledge was almost a physical blow, and Mike staggered a bit as his mind was hit with.. memories? And not exactly knowledge, either. Responses, reactions, commands, sensations linked to actions. When the barrage ended, Mike felt confused. He had a purpose, and abilities that were amazing. Using his equine body with fine control that he had never tried before, trotting, galloping, able to scent and track like a hound, able to ignore pain and discomfort, hunger and thirst. He knew he could knock a door down, kill with his forehooves, fight off monsters and men to protect... but there was a hole in all of this. A blank spot at the center of his training. The one he was supposed to use these new abilities for.
Bewilderment filled his thoughts, and a deep need for... someone. He had to be part of a team, unequal and dependent on the other, the one who was his... master?
Liam nodded to the knight, and said "Come in. He needs to be bonded with you now." The man nodded and stepped into the stall, pulling the gate closed behind him. Liam continued "Now place your right palm against his forehead and state 'You are my warhorse, my animal, my property. I am your master."