I can't see how this will ever lead to a satisfying ending, after all this time.
far too many loose threads and - above all - the "best friend" issue! I honestly can't see, how you will fix that, without having the whole community at your throad. at this time, just make him an antagonist! just think about the possible ramifications of his actions! there is simply no comming back (that would be accepted)!
the only solution I see, is to include some pretty dark endings. that would, at least, be believable. or consequential. not everything has to have a happy ending.
this whole project is an example of "bit off more than he could chew"