It has long been known that mages have access to having some form 
            of a familiar. This can be a cat, imp, falcon, and any number of other 
            creatures. The joining of such a beast with the mage gives him benefits 
            relating to the natural abilities of that beast. The question here is why 
            not the cleric, or even the druid?

            

            The cleric is in some form of contact with his chosen deity and that 
            deity has a set sphere of influence. Why wouldn't the thought occur 
            that the cleric be given a 'Counsilor', 'Guardian of the Faith', or 
            whatever you wish to call it. This creature would be associated with 
            the deity's sphere of influence.

            

            The cleric would not gain any physical abilities from the 'Counsilor', 
            but would have actual verbal communication with it. The creature would 
            not be omnipotent but know the 'law' of their chosen deity. The 'Counsilor' 
            would try to keep his cleric following the path that the deity has 
            set forth. He could answer questions but only on what the 'Counsilor' 
            has seen and heard within it's lifetime. But the 'Counsilor' would 
            be very wise and take what is presented in full before him and give 
            advise on the courses of action the cleric should take.

            

            The bond between cleric and 'Counsilor' would be like that of long, 
            dear friends. Those of good alignment would show respect towards one 
            another and those of evil would jokingly abuse, tease, and play tricks, 
            but all in fun. Niether would willingly put the other in danger or 
            withhold information. When they talk to each other, those around them 
            would hear nothing but the creature's known noises. The special bond 
            and language between them would even prevent spells from understanding 
            what they are saying to one another.

            

            A list of Deities and their possible chosen 
            'Counsilor':

            

            Boccob, god of magic and knowledge- The owl 

            Corellon Larethian, god of elves- The eagle

            Ehlonna, god of the woodlands- The chipmunk

            Erythnul, god of slaughter- The wolverine

            Fharlanghn, god of roads and travel- The horse

            Garl Glittergold, god of gnomes- The fox

            Gruumsh, god of orcs- The worg

            Heironeous, god of valor- The blink dog

            Hextor, god of tyranny- The snake

            Kord, god of strength and athletes- The bull

            Moradin, god of dwarves- The mole

            Nerull, god of death- The vulture

            Obad-Hai, god of nature and the elements- The Bluejay

            Olidammara, god of rogues- The rat

            Pelor, god of sun- The cat (see below)

            St. Cuthbert, god of revenge and protection- The dog

            Vecna, god of secrets- The fly

            Wee Jas, goddess of death and magic- The raven

            Yondalla, goddess of halflings- The osprey

            

            *As Pelor is the most common cleric class chosen by players I thought 
            it best to give my reason for picking the cat as his chosen 'Counsilor'. 
            Cats love to bask in the sun and Pelor gave them the ability to see 
            at night. Their independent nature yet friendly attitude matches Pelor's 
            neutral good alignment.