Custom Animations - First Time

[Triforce1]

I was thinking that for the next update to one of my mods, I would create a custom animation to make the weapon better. I downloaded the CivIV NifPlugin for Max (I don't know if it is working properly, but I will assume it is). But then, when I looked to the CS Wiki for help, I didn't find much in the way I wanted. So I Googled the subject, but in the area where I actually had to create the animation, the tutorial left me hanging. I know what I want is possible because I have seen it done; namely in the Act Like Sheogorath mod where (at this point in production) if you have his Cane (another mod) equipped and out, then you will idle like Sheogorath does. I know that this animation already existed and was just attatched to a script for the player, but the idea is the same. I want the player (when he/she has the sword out and ready) to idle in a certain way. I know I will have to face scripting eventually, but for now let's just stick with this. Can someone tell me how to create this animation the way I want it? (For reference: The Sword and The Idle Animation I am going for.