Concerning the length of the series, I believe I recall Oda saying in an old interview that he originally planned to finish the series in about
five years' time. However, seeing as more than twice that amount of time has passed, we can see that not everything goes according to plan. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if the series lasted 20 years at this point (nor would I mind, as long as the series continues to be awesome!
).
So anyways, we've got another chapter this week before
all the manga magazines go on break for Golden Week. I certainly hope we're introduced to Shiryuu and the level 6 pirates this chapter.......