[quote=@WardenCelestine]I have [...] spent countless hours developing story and lore, all with the hope that others would find the same love in these worlds that I do.[/quote]

Beware misapplying this effort. Players want to see that the GM has a confident, self-assured vision and the skill to execute it—yes—but the effort it took you to plan and write the thing should far exceed the effort it takes to sign up. If they have to research your hiders-nested-in-hiders to understand the story, they're not indulging a curiousity, they're not exploring, they're not engaging with the setting on their own terms—they're doing homework. And nothing kills this hobby faster than having to study for a fucking exam before you get participate in earnest.

Joining your rp should have a low skill/knowledge floor, a high ceiling. Delving into its nuances should feel optional, yet rewarding.