Thanks for the update! I had a fun time exploring the new features.
I liked the new army additions. The variety of interactions with the army guests is really nice. The unique reputation options are great, and I'm glad that there is now a reason to stockpile some teas and gifts for them. The afternoon trading with the army is a welcome addition that I used frequently this time, and I especially appreciate their willingness to sell booze throughout the week.
My favorite inclusion in the update is the option to close the inn early. I loved the new art of Scout, Lucy and Ellie sitting around the table together. Being able to gain affinity and interest with Scout and Ellie at the cost of no patrons is a cool tradeoff. I hope you expand this more and add unique dialogue or text for all the options similar to how Lucy has different random dialogue for "chat about nothing in particular." I would enjoy seeing something like Scout cheating Ellie at dice, or a drink-off between everyone.
Besides that, the new events with Scout and Ellie were fun. I'm glad the 3rd keg is available again. I didn't play around much with the new items, but being able to cure bleed and poison outside of the recovery skill is great. The calming tonics (and future blood vials) are are something that I am sure to use when I eventually start over again in the future.
I encountered two small potential bugs this version. First is about Ellie's skill and studying late at night. Each study session with her skill purchased only takes 10 stamina. When I was trying to max out all the research notes the game wouldn't let me continue reading when I had above 10 but below 20 stamina. I don't know if this is intended to work exactly like this or if the skill in this interaction is bugged.
The other thing involves trading with the army for monster drops. I only got fractured remains when trading them. The tool-tip in game mentions random loot, and the patch notes just say monster loot. I don't know if it is bad luck, bugged, or if I am misreading something. Is getting something besides fractured remains really rare?
Anyways, thanks again for this update. I'm excited to see where things go from here.