The 0.11 QOL updates were a godsent, makes the game way more enjoyable. Though I don't find it too grindy at all. You can also just sneak/run past many enemies, butt naked ofc just to avoid losing stuff, and grab their loot to craft the things you need.
Though I'm really curious about the story implications of being caught though, there is his "pride" being mentioned. I also wonder why the enemies always set you free after having had fun with you neither enslaving or killing you, even leaving you a neat-looking gift on you in a certain case :)