Minor suggestion, as you have spoken about JRPG neat little details and there are small things that excites me a bit from playing a sequel :
-carry over some items from previous game, maybe consumables since they won't really affect the game in a major way.
-extra accessory with minor boost like +10 max stamina, even better if they have visual effect on Mezz like a collar, nipple ring, or earring.
- an Easter egg referring an event from the previous game or maybe even a unique mob/boss encounter, though it might be a task in itself.
With that being said, great job! Looking forward for the upcoming CGs.