Build Questions for a Lvl 6 Goblin Noble Genies Paladin

Hi all!

I'm playing a crafty little goblin paladin in a home brew evil campaign (of course we think we're the heroes!) 2024 5e

We're all staring at Level 6 and we get:

• one bonus origin feat
• one uncommon magic item

Here's where I'm at so far:

• Race: Goblin ( bonus action hide & disengage)
• Custom Background : DEX +1, CHR +2
• Origin Feat: Magic Initiate Wizard ( Minor Illusion, message, Absorb Elements)
• My Stats: STR 14, DEX 18 (16+2), CON 14, INT 9, WIS 11, CHR 18(18+2)
• Class: Noble Genie Paladin. With my stats I have a base AC of 19 nekkid. He's a slippery little goblin! I'm running around with a 21 AC using a scimitar and shield.
• Fighting Style: Dueling Fighting Style
• Level 4 feat: Defensive Dualist. I'm open to something else

I chose the Scimitar so that I could still get 3 attacks with the nick mastery. I like it thematically for this build. Thought I DO really like the idea of two weapon fighting as a visual for this character.

At present I'm planning on taking this character to 20 ( if we ever make it that far), though I'm keeping the option open to MC depending on how the campaign goes.

Questions for the collective hive mind:

1. What should I take for my bonus origin feat? Tough? Lucky? I was considering alert, but someone on team already has it. Any other recommendations?
2. What should I take Level4 feat? I chose Defensive Dualist for the +1 to DEX and the +3 to AC as a reaction. Should go with Mage Slayer? I do love making saves, but I already have a +5 with my aura. Is there something else I should consider? I could swap out absorb elements for shield with my magic initiate origin feat. My DM is cool with casting spells while both hands are full as long as it's with reason (don't get too cheesy!) and fits the rule of cool, so I don't think I need war caster until I start casting full action spells.
3. What should I pick for my free uncommon magic Item? I don't need armor, what else should I consider? Amulet of the devout? Gauntlets of ogre power and go all in on a Great sword? Thoughts?

Thanks in advance!