I like the Druid/Cloistered Cleric Idea, it's not that flavorful though (one lives in a forest, protects the animals, the other lives in a cloister, so is this a forested cloister?)
Substitute the Knowledge domain for the devotion feat, grab yourself some DMM. The crazy thing will be Persisting a Divine power and then Wildshape into a bear. Raargh, Full Base Attack and I'm a bear with +6 strength! Oh, and I also get + to damage from knowing your anatomy.
Oh and on level 1-5 you'll be a HUGE asset to your party, your animal companion can help a bit with tanking, and your ability to load up on more than 6 lesser vigors each day will keep your party at full health while still exploring.
It's almost as good as the Wizard/Druid route, but not quite.