b) don't create a 0 length file, and only create it when saved.
Zeus already has this feature
Using the Options, Editor Options menu just check the File to open must exist option.
Now if you start Zeus at the command line with a non-existent file, a read only, non existent file will be created in Zeus. With the option unchecked a writable, zero length file will be created.
You can also convert the read only file into a writable file by using the File, Read Only menu and then using the File, Save menu