Rather than a mount, me and my DM decided that my Paladin (swapping in at 12th or 13th level, retiring my spiked-chain fighter) has an Angelic Being of similar power to the mount (CR, HD, ...) that can be summoned once a day as an advisor / conscience / conduit to deity.
My DM is thinking Hound Archon, I'm trying for the Winged Lion (fits the character better). But either way, I find it an appealing alternative to the summoned mount.
"My friend, be cautious, you are walking a fine line with regard to ..."
