The Accidental Savior

Nick Romero sat cross-legged on the guild's nursery bed, his flute resting across his lap. The dim light from the single window cast long shadows on the walls, and the Wives System's glowing screen hovered in front of him, flickering slightly.

"Alright," Nick said, rubbing his temples, "we need to talk strategy."

The AI's voice chimed in its usual chipper tone. "Of course, Nick! What would you like to discuss? Your magical potential? Combat strategies? The viability of serenading your enemies into submission?"

Nick groaned. "See, it's comments like that that make me question your usefulness."

"Feedback noted!" the AI replied, entirely unbothered.

Nick leaned back, staring at the ceiling. "Look, I get that I'm not exactly hero material yet, but I need to figure out what to focus on. Do I double down on music magic, or do I branch out? I mean, there's got to be more to life than glowing sparkles and light barriers."

"Music magic offers vast untapped potential," the AI said. "Instruments beyond the flute could provide new effects. For example, a drum could create shockwaves, a harp could weave intricate defensive grids, and a trumpet—"

"Okay, stop right there," Nick interrupted. "I'm not carrying a trumpet into battle. What am I supposed to do, blast the dungeon monsters with jazz?"

The AI paused as if considering. "That could be effective. Jazz has been known to disorient even the most resilient beings."

Nick stared at the screen, deadpan. "You're joking."

"Am I?"

Nick shook his head, changing the subject. "What about swords? I mean, at least that's practical. I can't exactly stab a goblin with a violin."

"Learning swordsmanship is a commendable goal," the AI said. "However, your current physical capabilities are... lacking."

Nick winced. "Thanks for that reminder. What's your point?"

"Developing basic strength and coordination will be necessary before you can effectively wield a sword. This would complement your support magic by allowing you to defend yourself in close combat."

"Right," Nick said, picking up his flute and twirling it idly. "Because nothing screams 'badass hero' like a kid with a flute in one hand and a sword in the other. I'm like a walking parody of The Sound of Music."

"Your enemies could flee in terror at the sound of show tunes," the AI offered.

Nick chuckled despite himself. "Yeah, I'll keep that in mind."

Nick set the flute aside, crossing his arms. "Okay, real talk. How long am I supposed to stay here in Fairy Tail? I mean, I know DanMachi is next on the list, but it feels... off. Like, I'm not ready for that kind of chaos yet."

"You are correct," the AI replied. "The timeline in Orario is currently unstable. Bell Cranel is only seven years old, and significant events are unfolding."

Nick tilted his head. "Like what?"

"Alfia and Zald, two of Orario's most powerful adventurers, recently sacrificed themselves to save the city. Their deaths mark the beginning of Orario's dark era. During this period, the Astrea Familia will be destroyed, and chaos will engulf the dungeon."

Nick frowned. "So, basically, it's a bad time to drop in."

"Correct. The dungeon's instability and the rise of unregulated chaos make it exceedingly dangerous. Additionally, your current abilities are insufficient for survival in Orario's ecosystem."

Nick snorted. "Yeah, no kidding. Can you imagine me walking into the dungeon like this? 'Excuse me, Mr. Monster, but would you mind holding still while I play you a lullaby?'"

The AI paused. "That would likely result in your immediate demise."

Nick rolled his eyes. "Glad we're on the same page."

"So, what's the plan?" Nick asked, tapping his chin. "How long am I supposed to stay here before I even think about Orario?"

"The current recommendation is to remain in Magnolia for approximately two years. This will allow you to develop your magical and physical skills while establishing a foundation for survival in future worlds."

"Two years?" Nick groaned. "That's... forever."

"In relative terms, it is a short period," the AI said. "Furthermore, Orario will stabilize significantly after the dark era, making it safer for your arrival. Bell Cranel's growth as a hero will also create opportunities for collaboration."

"Great," Nick muttered. "So I'm basically stuck here until the multiverse decides it's done being a mess."

"Precisely!"

Nick sighed, lying back on the bed. "You know, I've been thinking about the dungeon in DanMachi. It's basically a death trap, right?"

"Correct. The dungeon is a labyrinth filled with hostile creatures and unpredictable dangers."

Nick stared at the ceiling. "So, let's say I somehow survive long enough to get there. What's the game plan? Do I turn it into a musical? Like, 'Les Misérables, but with swords and magic'?"

The AI's screen flickered as if amused. "A dungeon musical could inspire morale among allies and confusion among enemies."

"Yeah, right up until the Minotaur starts singing his solo and squashes me mid-verse," Nick said dryly.

"Your creativity is noted," the AI replied.

Despite the sarcasm and banter, Nick felt a sense of clarity beginning to take shape. He had time—time to train, to learn, and to prepare for whatever lay ahead. Fairy Tail wasn't just a pit stop; it was a place to build the foundation he needed.

"Alright," he said, sitting up and picking up his flute. "First things first: I need to master this thing. If music is my magic, I'm going to make it count. And maybe... I'll try a few other instruments too. Just not a trumpet."

"Noted," the AI said cheerfully.

Nick smirked. "And after that? Maybe I'll pick up a sword. Or a drum. Or both. Who knows? I might end up as the first-ever bard-knight hybrid."

"A promising combination," the AI said. "With proper training, you may yet achieve greatness."

Nick raised the flute to his lips, playing a soft tune that filled the small room with a faint glow. The light danced on the walls, a quiet reminder of his potential.

"Greatness, huh?" he murmured. "Let's start with not dying first."

That night, as Nick lay in bed, he felt a strange mix of anticipation and calm. The road ahead was long, and the challenges were daunting, but for the first time, he felt like he had a plan.

"Tomorrow," he whispered, "I'll start fresh. New magic, new skills... and maybe a few less sarcastic comments."

The Wives System chimed softly. "Unlikely."

Nick chuckled, closing his eyes. Tomorrow was a new day, and for once, he was ready for it.