If you want to try my "Traits and Abilities Mod" it sort of puts characters to work. All the abilities and traits are rebalanced a bit so that they function a little more like you'd expect. For example, a Merchant will make money, however, he'll make more money if he is placed in a city and also boost city commerce. You have to choose if you want them stationed in a city (gaining the best of their abilities) or out exploring, conquering, or adventuring.

Unfortunately, I don't believe that we'll be able to station units inside of buildings. There might be a way to "station" them at improvements (ie. mines) but idk how to do that yet.

But yes, lets put them to work.

I haven't messed with questing but if someone can implement quests like that it'd be awesome. It certainly would make it feel more alive (also, quests should gain exp ).