Why don't drain counters work with hearts?

You of course mean Game->DCounter[CR_LIFE] ?

...

Hmm. I just noticed that Game->Counter[CR_LIFE] equals Link->HP. I think, instead, that CR_LIFE should be removed from std.zh, as it is redundant and, apparantly, not entirely functional.

It was mostly with item data. I wanted to make hearts heal "smoothly" -- somewhat like the potions, but it refused to work. I COULD script it, but I'd really rather not, despite the fact that it's really easy.

After some contemplative moments, I've changed my mind. The drain counters will work in the next build.