Glad you're liking the art updates - I really want the main characters to match the quality of the newer ones that use more recently created models. I think I'm getting there with most everyone, last thing I'm tweaking for many is just proportions.
The game's story takes place over two months, and all the Grind'm scenarios would take place after that. I consider them just a fantasy version of Connor, but there's nothing really keeping them from being canon if they match the vibe of your playthrough.
I am considering adding a few that take place within the story itself, but that wouldn't be for a while.