WITHOUT PREJUDICE
You seem to appreciate the reality of the impact of the tsunami.
One step at a time ~ complete the EASA exams. You will then have 36 months to complete the flying.
The chances of another operator taking you on for MPL will be remote to say the least.
I have made comments elsewhere about smooooth talking snake oil salesmen.
At this moment your option iii) would seem the most sensible, although you will need to review this course of action next year.
No question is ‘stupid’ if it improves your understanding.
Junior birdmen will be suffering from ‘shell shock’ to some extent, and vulnerable to quick fix solutions.
You are quite right to ask, as others will be in the same boat and also in need clear, unambiguous, independent advice.
No doubt others will chip in with their thoughts 😎