actual update:
As is probably apparent, I had to take a break from most fun projects due to professional bandwidth. I have more free time now, and reached back out to Cave.
Since beginning this project, they have changed their licensing policy (again) and stated they will not license to individuals. However, this was always being done through an actual business. After reminding Cave of this, they agreed to review again and will get back to me.
In my experience this means that a) they will definitely get back to me, and b) it is very likely this is still a go.
As soon as I get the green light from Cave I will begin. If I get the red light, I will upload the files to Printables and possibly come up with a new plan for the art. In either case this is the final effort to make them available in some capacity.
Either way, some version of this is happening in the next few months (only a year over due!)