24. LAURENT SITUATION (1)

We’re back in Sulani, where Filip and Anna are enjoying the fact that, for the time being, they have only one child again. Filip has finally overcome his midlife crisis and is thriving, working outdoors. He’s also thrilled that his efforts have turned the local eco-footprint green. The only thing bothering him is the new building that appeared on the horizon. Filip is convinced it wasn’t there yesterday. 

Anna is getting back into her pre-pregnancy shape. And Marshmallow has proven to be the best nanny for Bea. Plus, everyday life isn’t so hard when you can carry your baby on your back!

After a long day working in the field, Filip heads to the Sand Bar in Ohan'ali with his friends.

Filip: I’m grabbing a drink—blowing bubbles has left my throat dry. Be right back.

Hector Laurent:...and we’ll open wedding venues here. Just imagine how people will throw their simoleons at us to get married in such a dreamy place! 'Sulani – where you’ll fall in love forever.' Then we’ll move on to hotels and other properties. I’m telling you, it’s a goldmine!

For reference: The Laurents rented out their villa to the Drozd family when they honeymooned in Tartosa. Hector also aggressively pushed them to buy wine from his production. However, thanks to the magical wishing well, Anna discovered the Laurents' shady dealings—diluting their wine. Let’s just say they didn’t part on good terms.

Filip: We have to do something. If we just sit back, they’ll take over the islands and turn this place into some touristy, commercial circus. And Sulani will never be the same again!

Loario: Let’s call a meeting tomorrow.

Filip: I’m glad you all came. We need to talk about something important.

Filip: So as you can see, we have to act before it’s too late. The Laurents can’t be allowed to bring their shady business here.

Ukupanito: Filip’s right. I was bartending yesterday and overheard everything. They were talking about submitting an application to buy property. A decision will be made next week.

Filip: That means we don’t have much time! Any ideas?

Alika: What if… we buy the land ourselves?

Oliana: Are you serious?

Ukupanito: And where would we get the Simoleons for that?

Lilliana: I think I have an idea. We need to look at this from a legal perspective. What are the restrictions on buying land here?

Filip: Loario, you know the foundation’s legal rules best.

Loario: Oh! Why didn’t I think of that earlier?! Any activities deemed harmful to the environment or cultural heritage are prohibited—if the land has protected status!

Filip: So we need to restore Sulani’s status as a nature reserve!

Leila: Which means fixing the ecosystem!

Loario: We’ve got it!

Filip: Alright, let’s get to work! If we only have a week, we need to hustle!

Filip is also taking action in other ways—writing articles on ecology and raising awareness among locals and tourists. The more people support their cause, the better!

He continues to work tirelessly with fellow eco-activists, hoping all their efforts won’t be in vain. They’ve already achieved so much!

Filip: Sorry, love, that I’m barely home, but this Laurent situation is really important. I’m running on potions just to keep going—I can’t even remember the last time I really slept!

Filip gathers volunteers and supporters at the Sulani Research Institute.

Filip: And in closing, I want to thank you all for showing up today! You’re amazing, and what you’re doing is helping a great cause! Even today, we can see the changes happening. I truly believe we can stop the Laurents from turning Sulani into a tourist trash heap!

Hector Laurent: What is the meaning of this?! What’s with this nasty propaganda against my business?!

Filip: I’m just presenting the facts. You plan to open a large-scale wedding business here.

Hector: You should be grateful—it’ll boost tourism!

Filip: Grateful?! And what about the destroyed ecosystem?!

Hector: Eco-schmeco.

Filip: Sulani can’t afford mass tourism.

Hilary: And why should we care?

Filip: Luckily, your opinion doesn’t matter. We’ll handle this legally. Then you can argue with the lawyers all you want.

Hector/Hilary: ...

Filip: I’m telling you, we’re so close—I can feel it. Sometimes I think just one more analyzed sample, and I’ll get the notification about a greener Sulani.

Anna: I’m rooting for you, honey! You and your team have such strong spirits. I know you can do it!

Filip: Two Sunset Valleys, please!

Anna: To our upcoming victory!

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