I disagree, I think it’s still perfectly reasonable to criticize Plex. Specifically for that complacency. Just because they were an important step to getting where we are does not mean they are above reproach.
Besides, I wasn’t really criticizing Plex? All I said was that I prefer the UI/UX in Jellyfin, and that Jellyfin is still “Just Working” where Plex failed for reasons unknown. Plex isn’t bad, I enjoyed using it while I did. I just found something FOSS to take it’s place. 🙂
I worked up a custom template for a blood mage based on a homebrew I found and lost long ago. The basis was that the caster used spell slots as usual, but could expend hit dice for additional slots, or to use other class features or even boost some of their spells. It requires careful balancing, but is plenty of fun.
As I implemented it, it laid on top of their normal class, but it wouldn’t be too hard to work it up as it’s own class entirely. As another poster suggested, you could introduce a caveat that any health used to power a work can only be regained through natural means, or is only restored on a long rest, or something to that effect.