Author's Note: Here is the next chapter, featuring Gumball and his family, minus his mom. She's off at work doing her own thing. I also inserted a little trailer in the middle of this chapter too.

Anyway, enjoy the chapter.


Chapter 02: The Depression

York Street was a very nice neighborhood. So nice that some would wonder why not many people like it so much. Usually because it's where Gumball and his family live. It's not that they're terrible people. They get into crazy antics that can sometimes effect the whole town, and make almost everyone hate them for it. But things have, shall we say, went quiet recently. A year prior, the town suffered a major attack by a strange mutant monster that attacked the town's cinemas and was quickly taken down.

Only one person died in the monster's path, and Gumball was a witness to the horrible scene. And since then, he's been in a very depressing state. And it was shown as he skateboarded slowly and steadily on the sidewalk with his hood up. After coming up to his house, he kicked the skateboard in his hands and just slumped forward to the house, which was a nice small blue house with the light orange roof.

On his way to the porch, next door at the much bigger purple house, and out front near the bushes was a puppet-like creature wearing brown pants and plaid slippers, a fancy blue blaver, red striped tie and white shirt underneath, his body shaped like a slightly rounded cylinder. He stands a couple inches above Gumball. Grey-blue fuzz covered the old man's body, except his large protruding pink nose.

Gumball's next door neighbor, Mr. Gaylord Robinson, was using his hedge clippers to get rid of the weeds and overgrown branches that would stick out of his bush, while grumbling rudely under his breath. He'd always have a grumpy attitude, being uptight and caring about nothing but status and money. The only thing he likes to do is fly in a raging stupor and argue with his wife Margaret, who is far worse than him.

"Hey, Mr. Robinson." Gumball spoke, startling the old man and almost making him cut off his own tie.

"Oh, it's just you." Mr. Robinson said, unamused and annoyed. "I thought you were placed in Summer School or something..."

"No." Gumball said. "Passed my exams, teachers got arrested."

"So, I guess you're gonna celebrate and destroy your house again?" Mr. Robinson asked, giving a laugh jokingly.

"No." Gumball answered. "I'm just gonna do nothing today." The blue cat depressingly opened the door to his house and just slumped inside, while Mr. Robinson looked on, and surprisingly, he was a bit surprised... and concerned. His whole time living next door to the Wattersons, Mr. Robinson always despised them, especially Gumball, though the latter loves to help him out, which is surprising. But when Gumball fell into depression, the mean old man would've been overjoyed. But he wasn't though. Come to think of it, he was actually missing the little blue guy causing mayhem and what not. Taking a sigh, Mr. Robinson continued with his own business, cutting away the branch hat was sticking out of the bush.

Back inside the Watterson's home, Gumball closed the door behind him and placed his backpack and skateboard to the side.

"Hello everybody, I'm home-" Gumball spoke. He froze in place, seeing something that was so startling to see.

"OOOH! Oh! Oh! OOOH!" Those sounds were coming from the massive pink rabbit in the middle of the living room, dancing to the TV. He was wearing nothing but his underwear, but that wasn't what was startling. What was very startling was the rabbit's breasts dropping up and down everytime he moved and jiggled his body. It's probably because he was overweight and chubby.

That's Richard Watterson, who many would describe as a man child... or a Chubby Peter Pan, without the tights. But yet despite his severe lack of intelligence and maturity, his intentions are good and he loves his family. As he turned, he saw his son, still in a state of shock.

"Oh, hey son!" The rabbit spoke.

"Dad, what are you dancing to?" Gumball asked.

"Just a workout video." Richard said, pointing at the tv, which was showing a bunch of pregnant woman working out.

"And you're working out while watching a workout video only for pregnant woman?" Gumball asked.

"Hey, it worked for the Ice Bear on that Bear TV show." Richard answered as he continued.

"Gumball!" A happy squeaky voice called from the kitchen area. Coming into the room was an orange goldfish. Yes, a goldfish, with arms and legs! His goldfish-shaped body takes up his entire body, with his fins and legs hanging down from it, and his fish tail and fins stick at the end and behind of his body. His legs are much longer than his body, ending with plain feet. But he actually wears green sneakers with yellow-ish white marks and stripes, which was the only wearable clothes he wore. But on his head backwards or sideways was a green cap with a black stripe in the middle.

This was Darwin. Darwin Raglan Caspian Ahab Poseidon Nicodemius Watterson III. But he's just called Darwin. He used to be Gumball's pet ten years ago, until one day when he was accidently flushed down the toilet, he managed to evolve rapidly, growing lungs, and legs, to live outside of water, thanks to the power of Gumball's brotherly love. Since then, Gumball and his family adopted the fish with legs, and made him an official Watterson.

Darwin is always a happy and very positive person, and tries to see te best in most of the scenarios he's in, while also trying to make others happy. Despite being grateful and very honest, he is not very smart, and can be prone to doing dumb things. Speaking of happy, he was very happy to see Gumball come home sooner than expected.

"Hey, welcome back, dude!" Darwin said as he gave his cat brother a hug.

"Hey buddy..." Gumball said, giving him a pat on the back, though he couldn't smile.

"So, how was the S.U.M.M.E.R. S.C-" Darwin said.

"Summer School?" a voice called from up the stairs. Turning his head they saw a small pink bunny with a white tail and black eyes, a little thick tuff of hair on the top of her forehead, and she wore a orange dress with a white trim and white socks with black shoes. She also had cute little buck teeth, much like her father. But she had a more feminine appearance.

This was Anais Watterson, Gumball's six year-old sister. Despite her young age, she is the most intelligent member in the family, with a very high IQ. She actually learned to speak a proper sentence when she was born. She's pretty much the smartest one in the family, though she does have some temper issues like her mother, social awkwardness, having no friends, and she still possesses some infantile tendencies, especially since she's six years old.

"Do you really have to spell instead of just saying it." She asked.

"I didn't want to lower his spirits." Darwin said.

"It's ok, Darwin." Gumball said. "I actually don't have to go to Summer School anymore."

"You don't?" Darwin and Anais asked.

"Yeah." Gumball said with a weak smile. "Turned out me and everybody else didn't fail our exams. It was either rigged or someone made an error with the test scores. Plus, Miss Simian, Principle Brown, and all the teachers got arrested. Guess crime doesn't pay after all."

"That's awesome!" Darwin said. "This is gonna be the best summer ever! Let's celebrate by playing video games!" The blue cat then glanced at the floor.

"Sorry man, but I'm not in the mood for video games right now." Gumball said. "To be honest, I just don't wanna do anything."

"What?!" Darwin asked. "But it's summer! The best time of the year where we can do whatever we want, and not have to go to school!"

"I know, but I'm just not... up to it, you know?" Gumball said.

"Well, it's better than you guys destroying the house and what not." Anais said. But the boys noticed their sister was chewing something in her mouth.

"What are you eating?" Darwin asked.

"I'm not eating anything." Anais said, though she continued to chew.

"Then, what are you chewing on?" Gumball asked.

"This." Anais answered, then suddenly, she blew out a pink bubble from her mouth. With enough air, it popped, leaving some pink sticky stuff on her lips, but she licked up and continued chewing it.

"You're chewing gum?" Darwin asked. "Since when did you start doing that?"

"Uh... since I learned to eat, stupid." Anais said. The fish gasped as he heard the bunny call him stupid, but then he froze, trying to process the word stupid.

"Well, since is getting nowhere, I'm just gonna go upstairs and sleep." Gumball said as he made his way toward the stairs.

"But we should do something." Darwin said, stopping his brother. "Besides, it's Mom's birthday today." Hearing that made Richard perk up.

"Oh, I almost forgot!" Richard said as he rushed up the stairs. Within a couple of seconds, he came back down, with clothes on this time. Despite being unemployed, his attire looked like he was dressed for work, with his uniform consisting of a long sleeved buttoned-up white tanish polo shirt, light brown pants, and a dark grey two dollar clip on tie. Like Gumball and Nicole, he didn't wear any shoes or socks.

"Wow, you actually managed to get changed so quickly." Gumball said.

"Thank you, son." Richard said, only for his pants to fall down to the ground, showing his underwear. As he quickly pulled them back up, Anais and Darwin couldn't help but chuckle at this misfortune. "So, have all of you gotten your mom a birthday gift?"

"I sure have." Anais said, revealing a nice small wrapped up present, with a red ribbon on the top.

"Ok, and did you boys get something for your mom?" Richard asked.

"Well, actually, we've decided to get Mrs. Mom some beautiful flowers." Darwin said. "We were suppose to go out and pick some yesterday to find something for her, but Gumball was too depressed to go out. But I guess we can go today and pick some."

"Wait, did you get mom something for her birthday?" Gumball asked. "Please tell me that you haven't forgotten."

"Oh, don't worry, son." Richard said. "I didn't forget this time. In fact, I got your mother something very special."

"Where is it?" Anais asked.

"At the Adult Store." Richard said.

"The Adult Store?" Anais asked. "You mean the place where they make those movies with naked people?"

"Yep." Richard said. "I paid an artist down there to paint a beautiful picture of your mother, and she's gonna love it!"

"Wait... shouldn't you go pick it up?" Gumball asked. The tall rabbit looked at his kids, then blinked a couple times.

"AHHHHHH!" He screamed in horror. "Oh No! I'm suppose to pick it up! And I only have until tonight to get it until she gets back! What am I gonna do? What am I gonna do?!" The massive rabbit began to freak out, trying to figure out what to do. The little bunny only rolled her eyes.

"Why don't you just go pick it up?" Anais asked.

"YES!" Richard shouted. "No, wait, I can't. I have to look after you."

"Dad, I can look after myself." Anais said. "Besides, I'm smart enough to take care of myself."

"Yes, but you're only six years old." Richard said. "Therefore, you're not old enough to be alone in the house." The pink bunny only rolled her eyes. With her being the youngest in the family, hardly anyone takes her seriously and treats her like a cute little girl. It has it's advantages, especially when Halloween comes along, but it does have it's disadvantages too.

"Then just take me with you." Anais said.

"Oh, I can't do that either." Richard said. "The adult store is a place that is not for little girls like you sweetie. If I went in there with you, I'd get arrested. But how am I gonna get your mom her gift?"

"How about you get it and leave these two to watch me instead." Anais answered, pointing at Gumball and Darwin.

"Good thought, but no way." Richard said. "You remember the last time we had the boys look after you? You flooded the entire house." Anais raised an eyebrow.

"Hey that wasn't my fault." Anais said. "Mom was the one who put these two in charge, and you couldn't find a proper babysitter."

"Well that wasn't my fault." Richard said. "It was the internet's fault. Now enough with the arguing. How am I gonna get your mom's gift?" The rabbit began thinking. But then an idea came to his head. He glanced at Gumball and Darwin.

"Hey, guys!" Richard said. "You don't have to watch your sister, and you're both teenagers now!" He pulled out a card with his picture and name on it from his pocket. "Here's my membership card! Go get your mom my gift!"

"But where's the store?" Darwin asked.

"Just on the other side of town." Richard said. "When you go inside, ask for Touhou. He's the one who did the portrait of your mother. Just talk with him, tell him that I sent you, and he'll give you the picture."

"But aren't only adults allowed in those places?" Darwin asked.

"Yeah, but you're teenagers now, and you look like adults, so you'll get away with it." Richard said.

"Wait a second, why do you have a membership at an adult store?" Anais asked.

"Well, your mom and I have been trying to reignite the spark in our romance lately, so I rented some DVDs from that place to see how I can impress her with love making." Richard said.

"You do realize that you're talking to a six year-old right?" Anais asked.

"Yes I do, but like you said, you have a high IQ, making your brain that of a university student." Richard said. "Now enough talk, we're wasting time. Gumball and Darwin, I grant thee permission to go to the adult store and get my gift for your mother. Oh, and be sure to get something for your mom too. She would really appreciate it."

"YAY, Adventure!" Darwin cheered.

"No." Gumball said. The fish with legs turned to his brother.

"What?!" Darwin asked. "Dude, we get to go on an adventure!"

"It's not an adventure Darwin." Gumball said. "Dad just wants us to go pick something up from a store. Now if you'll all excuse me, I'm gonna go upstairs and lay in my bed in misery." With that said, the blue cat slumped up the stairs, went into his room, closing the door behind, as Darwin, Anais, and Richard watched. The fish with legs didn't like seeing Gumball like this. And seeing him like this for the past year was killing him. He then headed up the steps and leaned into his room, seeing Gumball laying down on the bottom level of the bunk bed. He just laid there, with the covers over him. The poor blue cat only showed a joyless face, and sad fish dead eyes.

"Gumball... are you ok?" Darwin asked.

"I'm not getting up." Gumball said.

"You can't stay in bed forever." Darwin said.

"Yes I can... at least until mom gets home." Gumball said.

"Come on dude, get out of that bed." Darwin said, showing his sad fish eyes.

"No." Gumball said.

"Dude, it's already been a year and you haven't gotten your mind off of her?" Darwin asked. "Gumball, you have to get over her."

"I just can't, Darwin." Gumball said. "Penny was my whole world. But now..." He just dug his head into his pillow.

"Awww Gumball, can you at least try?" Darwin asked.

"No." Gumball said. "I just want to lay in this bed until I die." The fish only gave a stern and annoyed stare.

"Ok... that's it." Darwin said. "I've had it up to here." With his fish arms, he grabbed Gumball by the tail, pulled him out of bed and across the floor, making the blue cat scream in surprise.

"Dude, what the what?!" He asked.

"We're leaving, that's what!" Darwin said as he pulled on his brother's tail, while the blue cat tried to prevent himself from leaving, digging his claws into the fabric of the floor. But it wasn't enough, as the fish managed to get him to the steps.

"NOOO!" Gumball shouted as he was pulled down the stairs, with Darwin managing to get halfway down the steps. "RELEASE ME! I DON'T WANT TO GO!"

"We have to!" Darwin shouted, managing to pull Gumball off the stair ledge. "Otherwise Mrs. Mom is gonna kick Mr. Dad's butt! And our butts too if we don't get her flowers!"

"LET ME GO!" Gumball shouted.

"Stop acting like a child and be more of an adult!" Darwin shouted, his arm grabbing the door, while trying to prevent Gumball from getting away.

"I'M NOT AN ADULT!" Gumball shouted. "I'M A TEENAGER!"

"Dude, you can't stay holed up in the house all summer!" Darwin shouted. "You're going outside, we're getting Mr. Dad's gift to Mrs. Mom, we're gonna get her some flowers, and, we're gonna be happy and cheery, whether you like it or NOT!" With one final pull, he pulled the door open, and pushed Gumball outside. As the blue cat landed on the porch, he quickly screamed as the sun shined down on him, as if it was burning him alive.

"AHHH! THE SUN!" He shouted, trying to cover his face with his hands. "IT BUUURNS!"

"It's not even that sunny out." Darwin said, and he was right. It was partly cloudy, and the sun would hide behind the clouds as they passed by. Gumball quickly pulled his hood over his head, trying to block the sun.

"Please take me back inside!" He whimpered.

"C'mon, we're leaving." Darwin said. As he spoke, he grabbed Gumball's tail and pulled him, making the blue cat fall on his face moaning and get dragged across the floor and onto the sidewalk.

"Have fun boys!" Richard called out. "And don't come back until you get that gift!"


It has been a while since Gumball and Darwin has been going across town to get their mom's birthday present from their father. Surprisingly it has been a couple of hours. Probably because they were moving at a slow pace. The fish with legs managed to get the blue cat to walk without throwing a fit. Normally, the two would just walk without moving their arms. But today, has it has been for the past year, Gumball was just walking with his head hung down, his face still sad. Kicking whatever would come to contact with his feet, even some food character that was flung by the blue cat's foot. Darwin was minding his own business. Crossing the way to the store, he saw flowers on the ground, fresh flowers. He began to pick a handful up, grabbed a clean unread newspaper and began to wrap the flowers up into a bouquet.

"Flowers are definitely a good gift to show someone that they're loved." Darwin said. "Say Gumball, do you want me to make a bouquet for you so we'll both give her flowers?" Gumball only let out a sigh.

"I don't know." Gumball said. "I said that I don't feel like doing anything."

"Aw, come on, dude." Darwin said. "You know what you need to do is to go to your happy place."

"I don't have a happy place." Gumball said.

"But didn't you find your happy place after I helped you forget about kissing Granny Jojo?" Darwin asked.

"No, I-wait, what?!" Gumball asked, turning his head back at the fish. "I kissed Granny Jojo?!" Darwin quickly covered his mouth, realizing what he just said. Two years ago, while they're parents were away, their Granny Jojo, Richard's mother, stayed for the weekend while they were away, and she inadvertently kissed Gumball on the lips while trying to kiss his cheek. Gumball was sent into a spiral until Darwin decided to help Gumball forget about it by making him go through the worst horrific things imaginable, and one of them was getting stuck between the giant Hector's toes. And it was nasty. Since then, Gumball forgot about the kiss and was back to normal. But now...

"Well, actually it was her who kissed you accidently." Darwin said.

"Please tell me it was not on the lips." Gumball said. The fish with legs looked hesitant. Gumball didn't know that it was a lippy kiss. If he told him, Gumball would flip out.

"Uhhhh… no, it wasn't." Darwin fibbed, showing a nervous smile.

"Oh thank goodness." Gumball said, and the two continued walking down the sidewalk. Gumball still was depressed and Darwin was looking around. But as he turned his head toward the glass wall window of Lazer Video, his eyes widened with awe, and a smile was drawn on his face.

"Dude, I know what will cheer you up!" Darwin said.

"What's that?" Gumball asked, only to have him be pulled from the ground and toward the window, to a TV screen being displayed.

"Watch..." He said, and the two saw what was a trailer for a game that has been recently released, but has been in hype for ages.


This product is rated T for Teen.

WARNER DUDES ANIMATION

SQUARE BOX

with associations with Hanna-Bandana Productions

...and Hashro

Our multiverse... is under attack

The scene moves quickly through the empty streets of Auroria City, then switches to the sky going black, with monsters jumping out onto the city areas, with many creatures, humans, ponies, dragons, and several other creature civilians running for their lives. However, the monsters are quickly dispatched by a mysterious orange-haired guy wearing a black hooded jacket with a white shirt and thin shackle pants and jet black boots. He is seen running through the streets and running up the building, after slashing through one of the monsters multiple times.

The Light is fading!

A young girl about the boy's height, an anthromorphic unicorn wearing a special scholar dress, watches into the sky, as the stars begin to fade out one by one.

Darkness is Rising!

The monsters rise up from the ground, attacking citizens and capturing innoncent children.

Only One Hero... can take back the Light!

The hero, Jadyn Caelus, stood to see the city from the rooftops.

"Alright... let's light this candle." He said, summoning his special powerful weapon, the Keysword!

Friends will Unite!

The next scene shows a muscular dragon with just a jacket one, who turns around to breath fire on a massive four-legged insectoid. After breathing fire and burning the lower part, the dragon raises his greatsword and swings down on the beast.

The next scene shows a small blue colored cat sporting a pair of hightech goggles, a sleeveless shirt and baggy pants, giving a smile to the viewer and draws out two guns, firing bullets upon the thin dangling pair of monsters.

The next scene shows a man with his hair over his eyes, wearing a white fedora and japanese styled kimono with long pants and black shoes. He pulls out his samurai sword and brings a mightly slash upon the smaller enemies around him.

Enemies shall gather!

A shadowy cloaked figure enters the battle, blasting away all the soldiers that were trying to stop him.

Several Kaijin monsters begin to perform a ritual, where the unicorn princess' brother is dangling from the ceiling, while his bride is strapped into the ground, unable to break free from her prison.

Sitting at the throne, is a wicked bald man with long pointy ears, and a long beard that went down his chin. He, the villain, rose up and grabbed his sword, preparing to strike down his next victim.

The battle between dusk and dawn will reach it's epic conclusion!

The boy dashes through the cyclone of enemies, trying to reach the unicorn princess. Their hands almost reach, but a massive monster leaps in and grabs her.

For Life and Light, together we FIGHT!

The last scene shows the four main characters, preparing to face off against the evil wicked wizard and his army of many iconic villains from thebrands of Warner Dudes Animations, DC Books, Hanna-Barbera, and Hashro. Then, many heroes and allies from the same brand gather behind the four, ready to stand with them to fight against the evil forces.

"Let the Twilight War Begin!"

Both sides charge toward each other, as the four main heroes leap up, and Jadyn Caelus swings his Keysword!

DOMINION CORE III

available now...!

FINAL MAX MIX DLC Coming This Winter!


The two boys watched as the screen displayed the words "available now".

"Wow... it's been five months since that game came out, and I still get chills down my spine watching and playing it...!" Darwin said, eyes sparkling. "And the DLC expansion coming this winter... ooooooeeeeeeeeee!" A sigh came from his right, where Gumball only lowered his head.

"Yeah, but it's not enough to heal my depression dude..." Gumball said.

"Hey Gumball, Darwin!" a voice came from the back. Turning their heads they saw a walking banana with a clay mouth, long skinny black arms and legs, and googly eyes. Next to him was a multi-colored fluffy cloud-like humanoid with three fingers on each hand, orange at the bottom, blue at the top, with a headband on his forehead, and red and white shoes. Banana Joe and Tobias, who are sometimes either Gumball and Darwin's friends, or rivals, depending on what situation they are in.

"Hey guys, whassup?" Tobias asked.

"Oh hey guys!" Darwin called out happily as he and Gumball approached them.

"Hey..." Gumball said with his head lowered down.

"Dude, what's up with Gumball?" Banana Joe asked.

"I don't wanna talk about it." Gumball said.

"He's still... depressed." Darwin said.

"Dude, I said I don't want to talk about it...!" The blue cat hissed.

"Oh, he's still broken up over Penny?" Banana Joe asked. "Yeah, we know."

"Hey if it makes him feel better, I miss her too." Tobias said. "She's such a sexy woman."

"Dude, that's Gumball's girlfriend, remember?" Banana Joe asked.

"Yeah, but she's still hot." Tobias said. Gumball could only give a moan of sorrow as he heard the girl's name.

"And this is why I don't have a girlfriend." Banana Joe said. "They love you, but one day you lose her, ripping your heart to pieces. Pals Before Gals!"

"And that's why we don't bring you two along when we go on dates..." Darwin said.

"Nobody's helping me right now." Gumball said.

"Aww c'mon dude." Banana Joe said. "You gotta let her go... you know, Let it go, let it go-"

"Dude!" Tobias shouted as he covered the banana's mouth closed. "Don't sing that song."

"Why?" Banana Joe asked. "Is it because that song is completely overrated? I actually like it."

"No, it's because we'll probably get a copyright strike or something." Tobias said.

"Wait, how do we get a copyright strike when we're just singing the song?" Banana Joe asked.

"Because, that crappy Joey Exam show got sued by the company who made that song for using their song, and they got jail time for it!" Tobias said. "I don't wanna go to jail, especially you!"

"But dude, this isn't a TV show, this is real life." Banana Joe said. The cloud-boy began to think for a second.

"Oh... I guess that makes some sense." Tobias said. Gumball and Darwin just watched them speak, not knowing what they are talking about.

"Ok, this is getting a bit irrelevant..." Darwin said. Gumball only sighed and sat down on the seat behind him.

"Hey Gumball, you know what you need?" Tobias asked. "You need to go out more, and live the moments."

"I don't know guys." Gumball said.

"Yeah, you guys should hang out with us this weekend!" Banana Joe said. "We're going camping."

"Camping?" Darwin asked. "Why are you guys going camping?"

"Because it's summer." Banana Joe said. "Plus, our parents want us to get outside more. We found this really neat fishing spot last year, and it was the best."

"Yeah... a really great spot..." Tobias said, beginning to reminicing the time when he and Banana Joe found the perfect camping spot.

It was a beautiful summer day out near the lake, where lots and lots of fish would come out and swim, making it a great place for fishing. Sitting next to the fireplace was Banana Joe, and he was roasting a marshmallow.

"Hey dude!" Tobias called out, getting the banana's attention. "You feel cold?" Banana Joe was a bit confused when he asked that.

"No, my banana peel is on." He said.

"Oh, right." Tobias said. "Ok..." he then moved his head back into the Tent, getting ready to go to sleep. Seeing there was something wrong with him, Banana Joe got up from the bark he was sitting on and went into the tent, seeing Tobias resting his head in his sleeping bag.

"You feel alright?" Banana Joe asked.

"Yeah." Tobias said. "I'm fine."

"You don't look fine to me." Banana Joe said.

"I don't wanna talk about it." Tobias said.

"Hey, you can tell me." Banana Joe said as he sat next to him. "I won't hold it against you."

"I don't know dude." Tobias said. "I really just don't know how to say it." The banana glanced closely at the cloud boy and realized what was going on.

"Oh my goodness." Banana Joe said. "You've fallen in love, have you." Tobias only gave a defeated groan.

"Yeah, I've fallen in love." Tobias said.

"Oh." Banana Joe said. "Well, that's cool. Who's the lucky girl?"

"It's not with a girl." Tobias said. "It's... it's..."

"It's with what?" Banana Joe asked. "A dog? A cat? A bird?" The boy only gave a sigh.

"It's a dude." Tobias said. Hearing that made a connection inside the banana'shead.

"You're in love with a guy?" Banana Joe asked. The rainbow lad lowered his head.

"Yeah... I'm gay." He said with shame. The banana stared at him for a couple of seconds.

"Really?" Banana Joe asked. "Since when did that happen?"

"I don't know." Tobias said. "I always had a thing with the ladies you know, well actually, they would always turn me down. But then last year, I started seeing this awesome guy in a whole new light and... well, the rest you know."

"Ooooh, that makes sense." Banana Joe said. "Hey, it's alright if you're gay. I don't have a problem with it."

"You don't?" Tobias asked.

"No man." Banana Joe said. "It's normal to feel that way. You're exploring past the boundaries of your feelings and stuff. I don't think any less of you."

"Really?" Tobias asked, feeling his confidence coming back. "Thanks man."

"No problem." Banana Joe said. "So, who's the lucky guy?" The multi-colored fluff cloud then frowned, deflating once more.

"I don't wanna say." Tobias said.

"Awww, it's ok man, I won't tell anyone." Banana Joe said.

"Nah, you wouldn't like it." Tobias said as he turned his body, facing away the banana.

"Oh, ok." Banana Joe said as he turned around, facing the other way. "But just to let you know man, I'm cool with whoever you like." Giving him a friendly pat on the head, the Banana made his way to go back outside. Tobias turned, the eyes stared toward Banana Joe. Seeing the banana walk away made him feel sad. He didn't want him to leave.

"It's you, man." Tobias said, making the banana turn around.

"What?" Banana Joe asked

"It's you!" Tobias shouted. "The guy I'm in love with is you!" The banana's eyes widened with surprise.

"Me?" He asked, with the rainbow colored cloud giving a heavy sigh.

"Yeah..." Tobias said in defeat. "I don't know why, but when I'm around you, I feel... all lovey dovey inside. I mean, I never felt this way in the beginning, but all the times you and I hung out and stuff, it's like, we formed a connection, you know?" Banana Joe stood there, staring at him blankly. Seeing this made Tobias lower his head in shame, believing that this was a bad sign.

"Forget it, man." Tobias said as he turned away and curled up in sorrow. Banana Joe just stood there in surprise. The person Tobias had fallen for was him! He approached him, placing a hand on his shoulder. Tobias looked back at him, only to see Banana Joe smile.

"Dude, all you had to do was tell me." Banana Joe said. Tobias's eyes opened more in surprise.

"Wh... wait, you're not creeped out or anything?" Tobias asked.

"No, man." Banana Joe said. "In fact, I've always felt that way toward you for a while now." Tobias' eyes widened even more. Banana Joe felt the same way toward him. A smile formed on his face.

"Really?" Tobias asked.

"Uh-huh." Banana Joe said with a nod. The two stared at each other, both their hands in each other's.

"Dude, you have no idea how happy you've made me." Tobias said.

"And that's what I want." Banana Joe said. "I want you to be happy, and I wanna be happy with you."

"So... what do we do now?" Tobias asked.

"Uhhh… make out?" Banana Joe asked.

"Definitely." Tobias said as he and Banana Joe twirled together, leaning forward, with their lips ready to touch each other's.

Gumball stood there, shocked completely, hearing Tobias telling them the whole story. Darwin tilted his head, very confused, and Banana Joe just sat there, blushing. Tobias only stared at Banana Joe affectionately.

"Uh... yeah." Banana Joe said. "We caught a lot of fish."

"And I suppose you eat the fish, right?" Darwin asked, feeling a bit uneasy.

"Hey, it's not any of your species, dude." Banana Joe said. "Plus, we sprinkle fruits on them to make 'em taste good.

"Yeah..." Tobias said, still staring at Banana Joe, and soon moved his nose to the little guy and sniffed.

"Mmmm... Banana." Tobias said.

"Ummmm... Gumball, does Tobias act a little off today?" Darwin asked, only for his mouth to be zipped up by the blue cat.

"You know what, we're just gonna go." Gumball said as he picked up Darwin and got up from his seat. "See ya!" And just like that, the two bolted to the door.

"Guys wait, this ain't gonna change anything right?" Banana Joe asked. "I mean Pals Before Gal-" He was then interrupted when Tobias began to peck his cheek.

"You're so amazing, man..." Tobias said as he was about to lick his cheek again, only for the banana to slap him in the face. "OW!"

"Dude, Who Does That?!" Banana Joe asked. "What part of not out of the closet do you not understand? We agreed not to come out of the closet until school started up again!"

"I'm sorry, I'm going through a very emotional breakdown!" Tobias said as tears began to seep out of his eyes. "I just can't stay in any longer!" The multi-colored cloud began to weep, feeling shame.

"Awww it's ok, buddy." Banana Joe said as he hugged his buddy. "It'll be alright. I still love you."

"Awww, I love you too man." Tobias said, feeling comfort as he embraced his banana friend.

"So, you wanna make out at my place?" Banana Joe asked.

"I would love that." Tobias said.


Back outside, the Watterson boys continued their way down the street, making their way to the park. According to the pedestrians, the Adult Store was not from where they were now. The day was almost over as the sun was almost reaching the horizon. That long slow walk really took them hours.

"Well, we're almost there." Darwin said. "We should be able to get back home before Mom if we run."

"I don't feel like running man." Gumball said, still slumping with his head staring at the ground.

"Awww, come on buddy." Darwin said. "It's not that far."

"It's not that it's far away, man." Gumball said. "It's just... everything."

"Awww, c'mon dude." Darwin said. "Why can't you just get over Penny?"

"Because, it was my fault." Gumball said. "I lost her, that's what..."

"No, dude, you didn't lose her." Darwin said. "She's-"

"NO!" Gumball shouted, showing tears in his eyes. "Please... don't talk about it..." He then turned away and just knelt down on the floor, trying to prevent himself from crying. He took a couple of deep breaths quickly, trying to get a hold of himself.

"Come on man, you need to stop thinking about it." Darwin said. "Try focusing on something else instead. Like over their for example." The fish pointed forward, showing Gumball that was present in the park. They saw a couple of kids sliding down the slides, spinning on the merry-go-round, and even teenagers hanging out, talking, chatting, and making out. There were a couple of birds flying around and singing, and cute little squirrels were collecting acorns for food.

"Now does this look very peaceful and distracting?" Darwin asked, but heard no response. "Dude?" Turning his head, he saw Gumball walking away from him, walking straight into the cemetery. Darwin gasped silently, knowing why Gumball was going there.

"Uh oh..." He thought to himself, and followed the blue cat down the into the cemetery, where many people who die would be laid to rest here. Why would Gumball come to a place like this? Darwin knew why, which was why he made haste to find him. As the fish came to a stop, he saw the blue cat on his knees, looking at one of the tombstones. Taking a look for himself, Darwin saw who's grave it was. The words said so itself.

HERE LIES PENNY FITZGERALD

A GOOD AND WONDERFUL FRIEND

Gone, but Not forgotten.

So for those who couldn't on, Gumball didn't go through a massive break up with Penny. She didn't leave town. She didn't move away. She was dead.

"Oooohhh..." Darwin said.

"Why did she have to die, Darwin?" Gumball asked.

"I dunno." Darwin said, petting his brother's head.

"It should've been me..." He said, surprising Darwin.

"Hey, don't say that!" Darwin said. "Don't even think that."

"Her dad was right... it should've been me." Gumball said, tears starting to form his eyes, getting ready to cry. "I should've been killed, not her-"

"Dude, stop it!" Darwin said as he grabbed Gumball the sweater. "Don't believe that! Don't think about what her dumb pops said! What happened to her was not your fault! She wouldn't want you to die, either! You gotta move on from this! You gotta let her go!" The blue cat glanced at his fish brother. But instead of finding courage, tears of sadness began to drop from his eyes.

"I can't, Darwin." Gumball said, wiping his tears away. "I just can't."

"Why not?" Darwin asked.

"I'm not ready to let go..." He choked, and hugged his brother tightly, and continued to cry. The fish knelt there, and stroked the boy's head, comforting his brother.

"There, there, it's ok.." Darwin said. "It's going to be ok." The two just remained there, and the fish continued to comfort his brother. Though it's probably going to take a lot more than some comfort to heal Gumball's shattered heart.


Welp, this chapter is done.

Oh, and about that little trailer thing. Dominion Core is pretty much a parady of Kingdom Hearts III, taking elements of Final Fantasy VII and XV, taking in the universes of Square Box (Square-Enix), Warner Dudes (Warner Bros.), Hanna-Bandana (Hanna-Barbara), and Hashro (Hasbro). Featuring my own OC Jadyn Caelus.

The trailer is inspired by the little Verum Rex video at the very start of the Toy Box world in Kingdom Hearts III.
Not gonna lie, that trailer looked so good that maybe Tetsuya Nomura might make it a real thing. If Nomura wants to make Verum Rex an actual game, I'd be up for it.

And to clear things up, those who thinks it's a version of Versus XIII, Nomura clarified that it isn't. It just uses concepts that were not in the final version of FFXV.
If Nomura wants to make Verum Rex an actual game, I'd be up for it.

Oh, I'm aware that Nicole's birthday is on October 12th, but this story began production Summer 2018, and the Web just aired recently so we didn't know the official birthday at the time, so yes.

Oh, and the camp scene with Tobias and Banana Joe, that was based off the campfire scene from Scary Movie 4, where CJ and Mahalik spoof Brokeback Mountain. It was originally gonna have the two sing, but not wanting to face copyright flags, I took it out at the last minute and just went with dialogue.

So anyway, I hope you enjoyed the chapter! The next one will come sooner than you think!