I just beat the game on life 16 after a run of slightly less than 20 minutes. it was enjoyable, i like the story, i like the progression. i like that it hints at multiple paths near the end. i look forward to this being developed further as your update explains.
a few bits of feedback for you.
1. the automation is rather hard to work with, it does fight you as you mentioned
2. the convince the guard action takes a -very- long time. i imagine this is intentional because its a sort of boss battle, but the previous one just takes a chunk of hp away from you instead, so im not sure why this one uses time instead.
3. making the bed was nice, i wanted more upgrades that effected actions but i imagine those are for future acts,
4. i headcanon that the mana bread is actually a crazy thing to do and you aren't actually supposed to do that XD. it kinda fits with the lore right? why would they have food storage if literally the lowest tier magical spell can make bread instantly that is significantly better than normal food? i like the idea that its insane to eat something you conjure with mana because its supposed to be a horrible taboo or something.
5. keep up the great work. love this so far.