1. Having a limited NPC amount was always an aspect that pushed more pvp, so that players wouldn't get an unrealistic idea about MD. If we had it tied to the amount of MP3's within NML, then maybe - Like if there's <5 MP3's then a few NPCs would become attackable for them at GoE/some other place (maybe they move around, idk). Having it linked that way also means that when hopefully MD gets busier again, we wont have to touch it because it just wouldn't be triggered anymore.
2. I've seen new players light up like christmas trees when they've been given stuff early on, I feel them being able to trade far outweighs the negative implications you state.
3. Some could be considered overpowered, but in terms of healing, I'm not sure about negative impact? (Also I take it you mean spells cast on them? Not ones they cast themselves)
4 & 5. Again, not seeing a defined reason for doing this?
6. We need more MP3s around first, and then can talk about HC, currently there's no point reinstating it - I believe it got stated if 5 people or more asked for it, it'd get done again as it'd then be worthwhile to do.