i don't want one of those mods that allows you to order any NPC in the game to follow you or anything like that. i just want the companions already in the game, namely, the Battlehorn Men-at-Arms, Dark Brotherhood Murderers, and Mage's Guild Apprentices to do something in battle other than die almost instantly. maybe something that scales all followers to your level?

i would really like it if the mod also allows you to equip your companions with whatever equipment you want.

if anyone knows of a mod like this out there, please post a link, and if there isn't one, then i think it's an idea that some modder out there would like to tinker with.

I do seem to recall a mod or two that tweaks the vanilla followers only. I don't use one of those so maybe someone else can help with that piece of your question.

I can certainly offer and endorse a mod to change their gear around though. The mod is small, simple and called Active Inventory Spell - http://oblivion.nexusmods.com/mods/17497//?

It allows you to cast a touch spell on any NPC (or critter) and access their inventory. With a touch of self-discipline it is a wonderful mod. I most often use it to pull any stray arrows out of the inventory of my character's mare that the horse has managed to accumulate by being occasionally shot at during our travels. I also use it to repair the gear of any Legion soldier that selflessly helps my character when attacked on the road.

hm, not sure i want to be able to do that to ANY npc, because knowing myself i would completely kill the game balance, maybe if someone could mod it so that casting the spell on anyone but someone who is currently following you is a crime?

sooo... companion leveling mod anyone?