well, now, after having played v 1.2 for more than two weeks, AFTER having applied all the available fixes here's the verdict:

1. it still results in CTD while loading battles in about 1 out of 2 battles...
2. it still results in CTD AFTER the battles in about 1 out of 2 battles (that have survived #1) {and YES, I have tried NOT saving right before the battle + waiting 25 sec or more AFTER the battle summary screen}...

grrrrr............ I think, I'm going back to stainless steel despite having enjoyed the spirit of this mod tremendously.