This is looking extremely promising, Chris.
An ambititious sole undertaking, with which you appear to be coping admirably.
As an Old School Blood, Snot & Guts Grognard, I heartily approve of what you are trying to do.
I do also offer a word of caution though.
Be very careful with the balance.
There is a very fine line between granite hard & futile.
During the beta testing of RS2 there were times when turn after turn I was getting the same settlement beseiged by full stacks of Arverni.
IIRC it went on for 20 odd game years.
Needless to say, it got satisfactorilty rebalanced, by the bosses.
Gawd bless 'em, each & every one!
Balla.