So having the folder structure for the game to work makes sense. The game needs those folders to generate save data.
The issue you continue to have is that the game is being blocked from generating new data. If it can’t create a temp save file, it can’t get through the new settlement process, which is why it hangs on the load screen when you try. I can’t say what is causing it for you in particular, but the most common culprits are antivirus and onedrive.
lock down the dir structure so whatever is moving and deleting can’t keep doing it.
you could also try changing the permissions of the game save to read/write only.
Of course finding out what is moving your stuff is what you really want lol
Could you elaborate? I seem to be able to make a new settlement with the Jagex’s client (for old school runescape, different game) closed, but still struggling with saving