Chapter 12: The Journey to Dawn Island
The East Blue stretched out before them, an endless expanse of blue under a cloudless sky. Their stolen vessel, small but sturdy, sailed smoothly through the waves. The wind filled the sails, propelling them toward Dawn Island, where their next adventure awaited. At the helm stood Draven, his eyes fixed on the horizon, a smile playing on his lips as he thought about what lay ahead.
He had told his crew that Dawn Island would be a good place to train and grow stronger, and he wasn't lying. The dense jungles outside of the Goa Kingdom were teeming with wild animals that have evolved far past the norm and challenging terrain, perfect for pushing their bodies to their limits. But there was more to his eagerness to get to Dawn Island than he had let on.
Draven's real interest lay in a boy—Monkey D. Luffy. The boy who would one day become a legend.
Draven had no intention of revealing his true plan to Nami and Nojiko. He knew Luffy's potential better than anyone else—how the boy would grow, the power he would unleash, and the role he would play in shaping the world. Draven wanted to meet Luffy, train with him, and test his mettle. He wanted a rival who could push him to new heights, and Luffy was destined to be that rival. But even as he thought about it, he knew he couldn't rush things. Awakening Luffy's Devil Fruit powers wasn't something he could just make happen; it required a unique combination of experience, desperation, and sheer willpower. And truthfully, Draven didn't know how to create that perfect storm.
For now, he'd settle for planting the seeds. Maybe he could push Luffy to grow stronger faster, to see just how much potential he could unlock. But first, there was the matter of keeping his own crew on their toes.
"Hey, Captain," Nojiko called out, snapping him out of his thoughts. "You've been staring off into space again. What's got you so distracted?"
Draven turned to face her, his grin widening as his eyes traveled over her. Nojiko leaned against the mast, her arms crossed beneath her chest, her hips cocked slightly to one side in a way that drew his attention. She was watching him with a smirk, a teasing glint in her eyes that sent a thrill through him.
"Just thinking about what's ahead," he replied, his tone light but his gaze lingering on her. "Dawn Island's got lots to offer—wild animals, tough terrain... plenty of ways to keep ourselves entertained."
Nojiko's smirk grew, and she raised an eyebrow. "Entertained? I didn't take you for a nature lover, Captain. Or maybe you've got something else in mind to pass the time?"
Draven chuckled. "Maybe I do," he said, his voice lowering slightly, enough for her to catch the change in his tone. "You know, I've been thinking… we're going to be spending a lot of time together out here. It wouldn't hurt to… get to know each other a little better."
Nojiko laughed softly, her eyes meeting his without hesitation. "Is that your idea of flirting, Draven? I've heard better lines from fishermen."
He grinned, unbothered by her teasing. "I'm not trying to impress the fishermen," he replied, his gaze locked on hers. "I'm trying to impress you."
There was a moment of silence between them, a charged pause that hung in the air. Nojiko's eyes never left his, and she took a small step forward, closing the distance between them. "Well, if you want to impress me," she murmured, her voice dropping to a whisper, "you're going to have to try a lot harder."
Draven's smile widened, a playful glint in his eyes. "Challenge accepted."
Nami, who had been busy adjusting the sails, turned to face them with an exaggerated sigh. "If you two are done with your little… whatever this is, maybe we can focus on not sailing into any rocks?"
Nojiko laughed, but her gaze lingered on Draven for a moment longer before she turned back to help Nami with the sails. Draven, however, couldn't help but watch her as she moved. There was a new confidence in her stride, a deliberate sway in her hips that caught his attention. The shorts she wore hugged her wide hips perfectly, the fabric clinging to her ass with every step she took. His eyes never left her, trailing the smooth movement of her body, focused entirely on the way her figure shifted and swayed until she was finally out of view. Even then, his thoughts lingered.
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Draven was doing his morning workout on the deck, his muscles rippling with every movement. He'd caught Nojiko watching him from the corner of her eye a few times, and he couldn't help but smirk. He knew he looked good, and he wasn't above showing off a little.
As he finished his set, Nojiko approached him, wiping her hands on her pants, her eyes glancing over his form with open appreciation. "You always start your mornings like this?" she asked, her tone teasing but genuinely curious.
"Every day," Draven replied, catching his breath. "I've got a long way to go before I hit my peak. Gotta keep pushing to see how far I can really go."
She raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a playful grin. "Well, it's working," she said, not hiding her approval.
He chuckled, stepping closer to her. "I could say the same about you, Nojiko. You've got potential, but you'll need to push yourself harder."
Nojiko gave him a mock glare, crossing her arms over her ample chest. Somehow making her breasts bounce enticingly without seeming deliberate, adding to the tease. "You think my body's not good enough as it is?" she teased, her eyes playful yet daring him to say more.
This subtle motion didn't go unnoticed, and Draven's eyes flicked down for just a split second before he chuckled quietly, shaking his head. "The way your body looks is beyond perfection," he said, his voice low and husky. "But you know what I'm talking about. You need to make your body stronger to handle your Devil Fruit better."
Her playful demeanor faded, replaced by a more focused expression. "You think I can handle more?"
"I know you can," Draven said firmly. "The Soku Soku no Mi's potential is insane, but it's going to take more than just raw speed. You need endurance, precision, and control. We'll work on that. I want you to be able to use your powers without worrying about wearing yourself out."
Nojiko nodded, the challenge in his words lighting a spark in her. "I've already seen what happens when I push too hard too fast," she admitted. "But I'm ready to train. I'm ready to push past my limits."
"That's what I like to hear," Draven replied, his grin returning. "We'll start slow, build up your tolerance for extended use of the fruit. You'll learn how to control every aspect of your power—no wasted energy. I want you to be able to handle the real threats when we come across them."
Nojiko smirked, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "Looks like we're in for some fun, then. I'll do what it takes."
Draven's gaze lingered on her for a moment, appreciating her drive. "Good. We've all got work to do if we're going to survive out here. But I need to know you'll be able to stand on your own two feet when the time comes. No hesitation, no holding back."
"I'll be ready, Draven," Nojiko said confidently. "Just make sure you keep up with me."
Draven chuckled, watching her walk away. She was growing more determined, and that was exactly what he needed from her.
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The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the calm waters of the East Blue as their ship sailed closer to Dawn Island. The island itself was now just a shadow in the distance, the outline of its dense jungles barely visible against the fading light. Draven stood at the helm, but his gaze wasn't on the destination this time. It was on Nami, who was steering, expertly guiding the ship through the gentle waves. Her eyes were sharp, and focused, and Draven couldn't help but be impressed.
As they neared the island, Draven made his way over to her. "You know, Nami," he began, his voice easy and casual, "I've been watching you navigate for the past couple days, and I've gotta say—I'm amazed. I wouldn't be able to sail with any kind of precision if I was on my own. So I'm really glad you're by my side."
Nami blinked in surprise, turning to look at him. A smile tugged at her lips as she processed the unexpected praise. "Thanks," she replied, feeling a warm sense of pride at his acknowledgment. "I didn't think you noticed. What with all the flirting you've been doing with my sister." She shot him a playful glare, though there was a lightness in her tone.
Draven chuckled at her remark, leaning in slightly. "Oh, do I sense some jealousy, Nami?" he teased, his voice dipping lower.
Her cheeks flushed immediately, a deep red creeping up her neck as she flustered. "What? No!" she blurted, her denial a bit too quick. But whether it was embarrassment or something else that caused the blush, even Nami wasn't sure. She frowned, trying to regain her composure. "Why would I be jealous?"
Draven's laughter rumbled through the air as he reached out and ruffled her hair playfully, earning a sharper glare this time. "Don't worry, Nami. You're just as important as Nojiko. You're both a part of my crew, and I'll show you just as much attention." He winked at her, the teasing glint never leaving his eyes.
Nami's cheeks darkened further, and she swatted his hand away. "I don't need your attention, Draven!" she snapped, but her voice lacked the bite she was trying to muster. She turned back to the helm, but her face was still flushed, her mind racing with a mix of emotions.
Draven chuckled to himself as he walked away, feeling satisfied with the playful exchange. Behind him, Nami grumbled under her breath, her heart still racing from the encounter. Even as she tried to focus on steering the ship, the faint blush on her cheeks lingered, and she found herself glancing in Draven's direction more than once, her thoughts conflicted.
"Stupid captain," she muttered, cheeks still red, though there was a smile tugging at her lips.
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The next morning, they finally reached the shore of Dawn Island. The sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm golden light over the island's rugged terrain. They anchored the ship in a hidden cove on the northern coast, away from the watchful eyes of any Goa Kingdom patrols.
As they stepped onto the sandy shore, Draven stretched, feeling the tension leave his muscles. "Alright, we're here. Let's get moving. We're heading into the deep pits of the jungle."
Nojiko looked around, taking in the dense foliage that stretched out before them. "The deep jungle, huh? You've got something specific in mind Captain?"
Draven nodded. "There's plenty of wild beasts in there that'll give us a good run for our money. It's the perfect place to start training. Just remember—we should stay clear of the Goa Kingdom. We're not looking to pick fights with nobles and bring down the Marines on our heads. We're here to train, not cause trouble."
Nojiko shot him a sly smile. "Not yet, at least."
Draven smirked back. "Exactly."
They moved into the jungle, the thick foliage quickly swallowing them up. The sounds of the forest surrounded them—the distant calls of birds, the rustling of leaves, the occasional growl of an unseen predator. It was wild, untamed, and perfect.
Draven led them deeper, finally stopping in a small clearing surrounded by towering trees. He turned to face Nojiko and Nami, his expression serious. "Alright, listen up. We're going to start with the basics. You need to get your bodies in peak condition before we can move on to anything more advanced."
Nojiko nodded, her face set in determination. She'd always been strong-willed, and Draven liked that about her. She wasn't afraid to push herself, and he knew she could handle whatever he threw at her.
"For you, Nojiko," Draven continued, "it's going to be especially important. Your Devil Fruit power is all about speed, but speed is nothing without control. If you push too hard without building a solid foundation, you'll end up hurting yourself."
She rolled her eyes but smiled. "Yeah, yeah, Draven. I get it. You just want an excuse to watch me work out."
Draven laughed. "You caught me. But in all seriousness, no slacking off. I'm going to push you hard, and I expect you to keep up."
Nojiko leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a teasing whisper. "Oh, don't worry. I'll keep up alright." As she did, the top of her shirt shifted, gravity doing Draven a favor as it gave him a clear view of the top of her breast and cleavage. He didn't bother hiding his glance, his grin widening in appreciation.
Draven's grin widened, his eyes locking onto hers. "Good."
He then turned his attention to Nami. "And for you, Nami, you'll be doing pretty much the same as your sister for now—building up your endurance, agility, and strength. But," he paused, eyes glinting with something more, "I have a feeling you've got a special knack for something called Observation Haki."
Nami blinked, confused. "Observation Haki?"
Draven chuckled. "Don't worry about it for now. We'll focus on our bodies first. We're going to build your foundation, make sure you're ready for whatever comes next."
Nami nodded, her brow furrowing with determination. "Alright, Captain. I'll do what it takes."
Draven gave her a nod of approval and gave them a predatory grin that almost made the girls regret their decisions. "Let's get started then."
They spent the next several hours working through basic training exercises—running drills, strength training, and working on their stamina. Draven kept a close eye on Nojiko, watching how she moved and pushed herself. She had a natural athleticism, but he knew she still had a long way to go to fully harness the power of her Devil Fruit. For now, he wanted to build up her body's endurance and strength before focusing on speed training.
Nami, on the other hand, focused on practical training. Though not as physically strong as Nojiko, she was quicker and more agile. Traits that Draven knew would come in handy for what he wanted to teach her later. After tiring from physical exercises, she would scout the perimeter of their training area, keeping watch for any beasts or potential dangers while improving her stamina.
As the sun dipped low in the sky once again, casting long shadows over the jungle, they continued their training. Draven didn't slack on his own regimen. He pushed himself hard, focusing on honing his Armament Haki to the point where it would become second nature. Right now, it wasn't yet usable in a fight—he needed too much time and concentration to bring it out. He would train his body to exhaustion, then recover and train some more. He knew the only way to truly grow stronger was to break down his limits and rebuild them again and again.
The days passed quickly as they settled into a routine—training by day, resting at night. They hunted in the jungle for food, testing themselves against increasingly dangerous beasts. The thrill of the hunt, the rush of adrenaline—it was exactly what Draven needed to keep himself sharp. While Draven had initially considered living out in the jungle, as he was used to doing, he ultimately decided it wasn't necessary. Plus, the girls would definitely want to shower and sleep in warm beds. So, they rented an inn in the nearby village, only returning there at night to sleep and shower before heading back into the jungle each morning.
And in the back of his mind, he kept thinking about Luffy. He had time. Years, even. He would find him eventually, but for now, his focus was on his crew—on making Nojiko and Nami stronger, faster, better.
As they sat around a small campfire one evening, Nojiko glanced at Draven, her eyes filled with curiosity. "So, Captain, how long are we gonna be training for?"
Draven smiled, his eyes reflecting the flickering flames. "Years," he said, his tone casual but serious.
Both Nojiko and Nami looked surprised, exchanging glances. "Years?" Nami echoed, her brows raised in disbelief.
Draven gave them a knowing look, his confidence unwavering. "Trust me… we're gonna need it."
Nojiko leaned back, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Well, in that case, we better get comfortable with each other." She winked at Draven, the teasing glint in her eyes unmistakable.
Draven smiled back, amused, letting the comfortable silence settle between them, the crackling of the fire and the rustling of the jungle the only sounds that filled the clearing.
AN: Mostly just a chapter showing a bit of the interactions and flirting. Nami is busy getting them to where they need to go, so most interactions are with Nojiko. Next chapter will highlight their training.