Thank you so much American Robin! I really appreciate your feedback 🤗
John and the apprentice are going to have a time™️ dealing with magical red tape (I think you're right, John probably does hate that as much as the Neverplace).
As for The Bamboo Witch, there is no 3rd item, and yes, she will dislike you, but there are reasons that you'll discover in the 3rd game. She's the kind of person who would always leave you item too short for everything that's on offer 🤭 but not to worry, I can't imagine her trying to get anything out of John will go too well.
I was so happy to read your feedback, so thank you once again 🥹