I don't think starting over will help. I am not sure if a new story would or not. My plots are very vague. When I created this plot the idea was to a Beastkind to lose their child (or family but child works best) and need a human to help them. The second character just needed to be human. I put slave in the description because it's a popular choice and I have a couple characters that can play that role. Everything else was up in the air. Generally the beast knows who took their kids. They have a trail to follow but Bastian doesn't which is fine. I can lead but I don't mind following if I understand the world. Ideal I prefer both parties to take turns but I know that isn't always possible so I try to do what seems best and most natural for my character. I don't mind you building a world. But many of the elements seem to have no role so it seems like a waste of time and effort. I put in a character that seemed to fit what you were looking for. I only have one female who can be described as subservient. Even without the slave limitations Liz's personality presents many challenges. She is shy so doesn't approach people she doesn't know. She has no confidence in herself. She is inexperienced. But one thing she does bring is that she will fight for others. But Bastian hasn't needed her only strength, besides healing. I add NPCs as needed. I only add as needed. Worldbuilding isn't something I have a lot of experience with. It isn't that I don't like what your doing. I just don't always understand where you are going with your post. If I don't understand what is wanted or needed it is hard to react. I don't expect you to control everything but I also don't want to take control since your character is leading mine.