I am also looking also for some "objective" big idea meaning-of-life stuff.
I mean you can only battle so many bandits, lose so many comrades, before you start to wonder, "Is this all there is?"
On the other hand, if I could have my own objectives ingame like owning a house and adding stables, gardens, etc. , improving my reputation, marrying, becoming governor or mayor...that sort of thing.
Then, it would be worth it to go to Tulga to deliver some tools or to the soon-to-be-built Four Ways Inn to look for Marnid who more likely than not is standing there without a clue or gratitude for your giving him all kinds of good weapons and armor. And if you ask to borrow his crossbow he'll only sell it to you an exorbitant price!