How would you build a monk if MAD wasn't an issue?

Starting a new campaign with a new monk. Levels 1-20 with expected sustained play at 20. I have lots of thoughts, too many, and would like your thoughts because theory crafting is fun.

I will probably go straight monk for the level 20 capstone. Looking for discussion on feats and subclasses. At level 1, I am a warforged monk with the sailor background. Dex 19, Wis 20, Con 18.

I want to play a scout / rogue role so skill in perception, stealth, sleight of hand, proficiency with thieve's tools. Also survival and acrobatics.

2024 rules, but I can take an old 2014 subclass or feat if it has not been revised for 2024. I think I can also do published stuff in DnD Beyond like third party feats or subclasses.

I guess my first big decision is subclass.

Way of Mercy appeals to me because I can then play at damage, rogue stuff, and healing.

Kobold Press Way of the Dragon would let me double down on stealth (I would choose copper dragon). No damage boost at 17 makes that ability look only OK despite the +2 AC.

Warrior of the Elements seems fun and strong.

Way of Shadow is strong but I don't know if I want to bother positioning my darkness spell on a virtual tabletop where it helps me / doesn't bother allied casters.

Way of the Astral Self gets an attractive AC boost at 17. My AC is 20 at level 1 and 21 at level 4. Could I have AC 30 by level 20?

Way of the Long Death appeals for the tankiness. I'm not sure I love touch of the long death, but maybe I do. Maybe not the most efficient but rolling 20d10 is fun.

Way of the Cobalt Soul seems synergistic with my high AC (Whenever an analyzed creature misses you with an attack, you can immediately use your reaction to make an unarmed strike against that creature if it’s within your reach).

As for feats, I'll have more than most monks since my abilities are all set. I want to take grappler at 4, pushing Dex to 20 and AC to 21. After that, feats may depend somewhat on subclass. I might even go back to origin feats for tough and/or magic initiate.

I'd love to hear your thoughts, advice, theory crafting, etc.