If not - Why would I spend 500g for a mercenary follower when I get a free follower in the first hour of gameplay?

maybe because some people dont like loading save games when their companion dies, to keep things realistic

Because Lydia isn't a Dark Elf?

Because not everyone is a min maxing power gamer. People might actually want to role play. Or did you forget this was an rpg?

I like jennessa more because I swear to god if that stupid ****** didnt die and I heard "Yes my thane, if that is what you wish my thane, of course my thane" I was going to gut her. still Jenassa never shuts the hell up and comments on every frigging flower we pass, so eh? I'm hoping to find a deaf and dumb barabarian to hire