Ok, so to appoint an answer to all thing in question.

- A) In SAO there are no literal Ranged. (I.e. Bows, Guns, Crossbows, Etc.)So, I am sorry but the Bow is a no. You can however do as Hail suggested, which I will reiterate for simple explanation. You could use Chakrams, or focus on the ranged skills with other weapons, such as the throwing skill for daggers or swords. 

- B) Rorik is a Tank, and Arrayah seems to be one as well, whether she turns out to be a straight up tank, DPS, or Nuker, is yet to be unseen.

- C) The return mechanism for throwing a weapon in-game for SAO works with a level-based mechanic. In the earlier stage of the skill level, a weapon will be returned to the wielder with the automatic loot system, upon the creature's death. In the later levels, the throwing skill for weapons will initiate the auto-loot mechanic, but only on the weapon thrown.

- D) I am currently pondering the idea of mounts, as there was never a mention, showing, or clarification on Mounts in SAO, and they only made a brief appearance in ALO under the control of the Cait'Si the Fae race of Beastmasters. This will be concluded upon, and discussed with my Co-Gm Vicier, until further notice there are no mounts present.

- E) I will be making a post by tomorrow morning, and I will be writing it through the night. Parental issues and family matters have paused and delayed my writing.