Just in case if Chel didn't see this yet, fisheye have released source codes for customizable troops at http://forums.taleworlds.com/index.php/topic,53817.0.html and I honestly think it will expand the gameplay experiences in this mods.
Being able to raise my own army, train them, customize their equipments would be extra fun in EG III. I also have an additional idea for expanding these features. What if Chel would also add features where you would be able to train these troops of your own for extra strength and agile points being added to these troops, especially gong on special quests that would make your troops stronger besides ranking them up? And how about special quest that would allow your customizable troops to be able to have carry unique, powerful items? And to balance this out, training customizable troops would be either as hard or harder than raising specific faction's army?
Eagle out...