It really was a wild goose chase in some way. Not some grand but still humble pirate adventure but a prophecy, all part of a greater plan/keikaku/cause. Sigh.
I miss the simplicity of early OP. When it was more just about adventure, exploration and bonds between the crew and new friends and great, emotional fights and not arcs going for multiple years FFS.
At least this godforsaken act and arc are gradually coming to an end after all.