Hmmm... I see what you are talking about. I still think that you could put some QS8s in there. I mean the goal of the surround channels for movies is to provide an engulfing sound field , not for exacting precision (at least for the most part). Thus the reason that the Axiom QS surrounds are so nice. You get sound firing in 4 directions to fill a lot of space.
When I first saw the pictures, I right away was thinking some M22 fronts for space. They could possibly be put next to your screen and not have to be on the floor like the larger M series. That would help to fire the sound past the fireplace. Add a good sub and the M22s are very nice.
Just some thoughts. Others will chime in.
