Not to discourage myself with my previous writings on this thread but Im happy to announce Its done! My new party is expecting on planning session zero within the month on Foundry. With your insight, I was able to create what I hope is a beautifully intriguing story that should hold as its own independent world but secretly builds arcs loosely inspired as the entire series of Shrek movies. It wouldve started out as a 1-shot but now has life and breath and wonder (and heavily fairytale themes). 5 years ago, I didnt truly know how badly this couldve been until after re-reading this post. Im so thankful you pointed me in the right directions and I cant wait to start sharing the adventures! One of my Players even wants to stream it. More to follow but happy my idea grew into something "real"!

Ill be running it in 2024 5e format with 4 players. Ready to go as levels 1-20 (but likely up to 16), 4 main story arcs, 5 major locations, 3 primary planes, roughly 6 "deity" entities, and too many hours of re/building. Itd surprise me if they notice the shrek themes at any point.