I'm sure others will mention it if there is a problem, the thralls are definitely at their best when they aren't carrying ranged weaponry, much more proactive in combat. Hopefully they have sorted themselves out and will behave for you.

I only had to remove the imperial bows once and I never saw them again. It would be strange if they are willing to create new bows when they won't create new swords...

I'll try and make it more clear and maybe do a video, glad you're having fun though Rezoh!

I've not tested this but the Bards college has some items that you can easily locate first before activating the quest in Solitude...

On one playthrough I bumped into Meridias Beacon so I had one of my goons loot the chest it was in and that worked fine once I visited her shrine...

There are likely dozens of far less important items that can be used for the same goal.

Thanks Goober, that looks really awesome! I found this as well which I really liked...

...was very tempted to go doing naughty things to it in PS. May just use it as it is...

'Grimsever' should work as well, that item is always available...and Mjoll can't be a thrall because she's invincible.