NEXT DAY…

The early morning light peeked through the wooden support beams holding up his hammock, gently nudging Funky Kong from his slumber. He stretched and yawned, his thoughts immediately drifting to the tension at the baseball game. Despite his usual carefree attitude, he still knew he had hurt Daisy's feelings, and the weight of his actions were still settled heavily in her stomach.

He nearly fell out of his hammock and let out a scream as he looked down at the running river below him.

Funky: Oh shit, almost fell off…ughhhh…

He quickly grabbed his shades and put them back on to cover his sleepy eyes. He walked over to the balcony again, and climbed over it back into the DK house and searched for a pair of Spare ripped Blue jeans he had lying around so he can get to his garage and start sketching out his upcoming contraption. He had in mind a way to help DK Island feel more secure and intact as he didn't want to have another instance of King K Rool invading.

The smell of coffee filled the air, and he followed it downstairs to the kitchen. Dixie was already up, brewing a pot of the strong, dark liquid. She looked over at him with a knowing smile.

Dixie: Rough night?

Funky: Nah, just had a bit much fun at the game yesterday.

Dixie: That's not what I heard.

Funky's cheeks flushed a little, and he shuffled his feet awkwardly.

Funky: I, uh, I might've been a bit too much.

Dixie: A bit? You practically started a food fight with the snacks.

Funky chuckled nervously.

Funky: Oh, you heard about that, huh?

Dixie: It's all anyone's talked about since the game.

He took a seat at the counter, his mind racing with thoughts of Daisy. But back with the contraption. He grabbed a piece of paper and a pencil, his thoughts swirling as he began to sketch out his grand design.

The contraption was a mix between a giant robot and a fortress, complete with laser cannons and a sound system that could blast music so loud, it would scare off any invaders. It was going to be the ultimate defense mechanism for DK Island.

As he sketched, his mind wandered to the look on Daisy's face when she had screamed at him.

He stared at the sheet of paper as he recollected the image of Daisy, distressed, nearly breaking her vocal cords from screaming at him. He was completely spaced out until Dixie noticed.

Dixie: What's up, Funky? You okay?

Funky: Yeah, just thinking about something...

Dixie: It's not about what happened at the game, is it?

Funky looked up from his sketches, his expression serious.

Funky: Yeah, it is. I just…don't know what's wrong with that Daisy girl man…I don't know what it is…she's just always so…ugh, so sensitive.

Dixie placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Dixie: Sometimes, people just need a little space, Funky. Maybe you should go talk to her, apologize for what happened.

Funky's eyes widened, his head slamming on the table.

Dixie looked at him with a confused look as she backed up a bit.

Dixie: Uhh…?

Funky lifted his head and glaced at his unfinished Sketch of his contraption idea.

Funky: I don't think a person like that is gonna want me to…I'm gonna be honest. Also why would I? She wants to be all angry and pouty but calls her self a confident and independent princess so…Eh…

Dixie: Funky, she's upset, and you know it. You can be a bit much sometimes.

Funky: Yeah, but I'm Funky Kong, that's what I do.

Dixie: Sometimes, it's okay to be less "funky" and more considerate.

Funky:…

Dixie:…

Funky: What…

Dixie deadpanned and let out s sigh.

Dixie: Look, I think what you try to do infront if everyone is very over the top and irresponsible.

Funky gave a confused look.

Funky: So? That's what she does too! But I guess since I'm a-

Dixie: No, no, and no, Funky. It's not a competition. It's about being a good person and recognizing when you've hurt someone's feelings.

Funky: But she's tough, she can take it.

Dixie: Maybe she can, but that doesn't mean you should push her to the brink.

Funky sighed, knowing she was right, but he didn't want to admit it out loud. He took a sip of his coffee and went back to his sketch, his mind racing.

Funky: I guess I could talk to her...but she's probably not going to want me anywhere near her.

Dixie: Don't worry big guy, I'lm think of something, also you can save that…thing or whatever the hell you were going to build a couple days ago.

Funky Spit his coffee out as his chair was forced backwards.

Funky: wha- Why not? Are you kidding me? Do you want another K Rool takeov-

Dixie: Shhhh, we already have a machine set up by DK to make sure things like that don't happen.

Funky froze for a second in his chair.

Funky: What? No way. Did DK actually build something without me knowing?

Dixie: Yeah, it's called team work, something you might want to work on.

Funky stood up with a huff, tossing his paper aside. He stomped over to the garage, his mind racing with a mix of annoyance and curiosity.

Dixie: Funky don't think about it too much…

She giggled as she fixed her blonde pony tail, watching Funky walk off to the exit where the ladder was.

Dixie: ohh that silly ape…guy…whatever…

She walked over to the living area and decided to Snuggle herself back on the couch she was sleeping in, and watch some morning Mushroom Kingdom headlines.

Back to Funky Kong…

Funky slammed the door to the garage, the sound echoing through the quiet morning. He couldn't believe DK had built something without his help. The nerve! But he couldn't ignore the niggling feeling of guilt about Daisy. He picked up his tools, the metal clinking together as he tried to distract himself from the conversation with Dixie.

As he worked on his new contraption, his mind kept drifting back to the baseball game. He could see Daisy's tears, the hurt in her eyes, and the way she had stormed off the field. He had never seen her so upset before.

Funky paused, setting down his wrench. Maybe he should talk to her. But what could he say? He had always been the life of the party, the one to bring the laughs. Apologies weren't exactly his strong suit. He leaned back against the workbench, sighing heavily.

The sound of the TV from the living room grew louder as Dixie switched the channel to the Mushroom Kingdom News. The reporting toad's voice broke through Funky's thoughts.

Reporter: And in sports news, the recent baseball game between Team Daisy and Team Waluigi ended with a dramatic scene involving two individuals, these being Daisy, the Princess of the desert landscape known as Sarassaland, and Funky Kong, a very hairy ape humanoid who has a lot of swag and alot of ego. Sources say that tensions were high, with Funky's "trash talk" pushing Daisy to the edge.

Funky rolled his eyes, but he couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret. He had gone too far.

Reporter: I have spoke with Mario, the red mustache man himself about this, and he told me that most of the girls want a rematch…

Funky Kong's shades dropped to the ground. Dixie shook her head and got up from the couch, looking up at Funky with an annoyed yet disappointed look.

Reporter: Also they want a rematch…Today…

Funky Kong fell to the floor, he couldn't believe what he had just heard.

Funky: Rematch? Today? Did she seriously challenge us to a rematch?

Dixie: That's what I said, but apparently, you weren't listening.

Funky's heart was racing as he thought of facing Daisy again. He knew he had to apologize, but now it was going to be even more awkward with a rematch looming over them. He picked up his shades and put them back on, trying to compose himself.

Funky: Alright, I guess I'll have to man up and talk to her. But I'm not gonna back down from a challenge.

Dixie: That's the spirit, but maybe try to be a little more...delicate with your words.

Funky groaned, picking up his shades and walking back upstairs to find his surfboard, he decided to go hit the waves for a bit before Noon so he could take his mind off the whole situation yesterday.

Funky: I'm gonna go surf, I'll prepare for the baseball game after I eat lunch at noon, that sound good with you?

Dixie giggled and rolled her eyes

Dixie: Whatever you say big guy. But remember, talk to Daisy.

Funky nodded, still not fully convinced he should apologize, but knowing he had to do something to smooth things over before the game.

As he walked out to the beach, Funky couldn't shake the feeling that he had screwed up big time. The waves called to him, and he hoped the rhythm of the ocean would help him think clearer. He paddled out, the salty water cooling and soaking his fur as the sun reflected over the watery horizon. The moment he caught a wave, the rush of adrenaline helped to clear his head. He rode it all the way to the shore, feeling slightly better but not fully at ease.

The sand was warm under his feet as he waited for another larger wave to approach him.

Funky: (Mumbling to himself) What the hell do I even say to that girl…ugh, whatever i guess.

Just as he was about to paddle back out, he heard a faint young voice calling him. It was Diddy Kong, and he looked like he had something important to say.

Diddy: Funky! Funky!

Funky turned and waved, paddling back to the shore to meet him.

Diddy: Hey, I talked to Yoshi, and he said that Daisy's still super pissed about what happened at the game that She's not even sure if she wants to play in the rematch.

Funky's face froze for a second, comprehending what Diddy said for a moment.

Funky: Um…ok? That'll be a burden off my back then! YESSIRR-

Diddy: But Funky, that's the problem, how can you make things right and get along with her if she's not playing.

Funky's expression changed from nonchalant to a slight bit of worry.

Funky: You're right, Diddy, I can't have her mad at me forever, that would ruin all the fun we have together.

Diddy nodded and handed Funky a small wrapped present.

Diddy: I got you something, it's a peace offering.

Funky looked at the present with skepticism but took it anyway.

Funky: What is it?

Diddy: It's a hand made necklace from the Yoshis, they're really good at making these, and I think she'll like it.

Funky: Oh, thanks buddy, I'll definitely give it to her after the game if possible.

They decided to go back to the DK House as the Sun was reaching the center of the blue sky. Both of them had to venture back to the Mushroom Kingdom to play in the rematch.

Funky Kong decided to Take off his signature bandana this time and let his giant brown Flaky wads of hair shine. He combed through it relentlessly trying to make it look neat but still pretty frayed out.

Dixie and DK decided to go see if Diddy and Funky were both almost ready to go rematch the girl's team.

Dixie went to check on Funky, DK went to go check on Diddy.

When Dixie Kong walked near Funky's bathroom, she took a whiff of his signature cologne and started coughing.

Dixie: Funky, you in there?

Funky: Yeah, why?

Dixie: You and Diddy have to leave soon so, you ready for the rematch, or?

Funky: Almost, just trying to touch myself up for the spectators so when I stunt and rock the field they know who they're watchi-

Dixie: uh-uh, not this time.

Funky: Huh?

Dixie: Remember what we talked about earlier big guy?

Funky had a slightly crestfallen look, his hair perfectly disheveled, and the bandana nowhere in sight.

Funky: What? You don't think I look good?

Dixie: You always look good, Funky, but right now, you need to focus on the game and not just how you look.

Funky: Yeah, yeah, I know, but a little bit of charm can't hurt, right?

Dixie sighed and leaned her arm against the wall, dumping her face into it.

Dixie: Charm isn't whats gonna allow you to make up with Daisy.

Funky: oh…I forgot about that whole schpiel with her…

He then let out a sigh and stared at the wooden tile flooring in his bathroom before taking a step, signaling that he was about to walk out completely.

Dixie: Where are you going now?

Funky: Finding a swaggy outfit for the rematch, obviously.

Dixie: Funky, that's not what I meant. You need to show genuine remorse, not just look good.

Funky looked at her with a mix of confusion and frustration. He had never had to deal with someone's feelings like this before.

Funky: But I don't know how to do that, Dixie. I'm not good with...emotions and stuff.

Dixie: That's why I'm here to help, now come on, let's pick out something that says "I'm sorry" without the need for words.

Funky ignored her words and found the drippiest outfit possible in his wooden closet. It was a black, thick tank top, opposed to the signature loose white ones he wears all the time, with some distorted and contorted lettering on it that spelt his name. He also Put on a gold chain with a carved banana engraved on it, and he kept the short ripped jean aesthetic, but with a darker pair, and some longer chains wrapped around the top of them, hanging down. Don't forget the shiny Black sandals as well.

Dixie: That's definitely not what I had in mind, Funky.

Funky: What? It's the most heartfelt outfit I got, it says "I'm sorry, but also I'm still cooler than you."

Dixie facepalmed.

Dixie: Funky, please, for the love of the Kong family, change into something else.

Funky: But why?

Dixie: Because you're going to make it worse with that outfit on, trust me.

Funky giggled and had a smirk on his face.

Funky: No im not…besides, if she gets all worked up over some harmless clothes, clearly me being me ain't the problem anymore and she's just hating-

Dixie facepalmed and walked out of his room heading towards the small stairs.

Funky: wha- Dixie? Why are you-

Dixie: You're on your own, you wanna flex on everyone for no reason? Go ahead, being intimidating is not gonna help.

Her voice echoed from the hallway leading to the stair case. Funky tried to play it off and focus on the good, and the baseball game rematch. He got his surfboard and gave it a quick wash, as well as using an old banana to shine it and give it some Smoothness. He circled areas with it to help make new temporary contact points for the baseball whenever he would hit it.

Diddy called him from the staircase as he was already fit and ready in his normal attire, but with a different pair of Dark red short pants.

Diddy: Funky, come on, we're going to be late!

Funky: Coming, coming.

They both headed downstairs, Funky still trying to shine his surfboard.

Diddy looked at Funky with a confused look as Funky's gold chain was swaying with every step he took down the stairs.

Diddy: Funky, are you sure about this outfit?

Funky: What's wrong with it?

Diddy: It's just...it's not…I don't know, it's not you.

Funky looked down at himself, then back at Diddy, his smirk fading slightly.

Funky: Maybe you're right, buddy. But, I still wanna look cool and catch some eyes at the very least.

Diddy shook his head in a comical way as they both reached the bottom of the stairs and headed to the exit, down the ladder, and Hopped in the barrel plane to go back to the Mushroom Kingdom.

DK: Have fun at the baseball rematch!

Because of how loud the engine was, Dixie's Golden hair flipped and toppled violently. as she watched them both ascend into the air and take off in the small barrel plane.

On The way to the Mushroom Kingdom…

Funky had a dead but concerning look on his face while flying the barrel plane. He couldn't focus because the Daisy incident from yesterday was still lingering in his head.

Funky: (Thinking to himself) What if she's not there? What if she doesn't forgive me? What if she's just not into me anymore?

Diddy looked at him, noticing his restlessness.

Diddy: What's up, Funky? You look like you've seen a ghost.

Funky snapped out of his trance.

Funky: Oh, it's just that thing with Daisy yesterday. I can't shake the feeling that she's still mad at me.

Diddy patted him on the back.

Diddy: You'll figure it out, buddy. Just remember to be yourself, but maybe with a little less... Funky Kong flair.

Funky nodded, trying to take in Diddy's words of wisdom.

As they approached the Mushroom Kingdom, Funky could see the baseball field from the sky, and his heart sank a bit when he saw Daisy already there, practicing with her team. She looked so focused, so serious. He had never seen her like that before.

Funky: (Mumbling) I hope she doesn't rip my head off when she sees me.

Diddy: She won't, just be cool.

As They touched down just outside the baseball field, They overheard the girls practicing once the loud engine ceased.

They walked into the field to find where the rest of Waluigi's team members were, only to be met with none in sight.

Funky: ugh, where's the rest of our team, shouldn't they be here already?

Diddy: Maybe they're late? Heheh…

Funky Kong gave the smaller chimp humanoid a frustrating glare as he rolled his eyes, They were approaching the Waluigi team Locker rooms to see if the rest of their team was inside.

They had to walk past all the girls practicing though, and As they walked past, nit paying attention to any of them, Peach gave a small stare and watched them for a brief second, as she got a whiff of Funky's cologne before turning back around.

Funky: there's no shot our team has been in here for like an hour just goofing off right…right?

Diddy: Hehe, probably not.

Funky sighed and pushed open the locker room door, banging it against the wall. The smell of dirty socks and sweat filled their nostrils as they walked in. To their surprise, the room was empty.

Funky: Great, just great.

Diddy: Maybe they went to grab something to eat?

Funky: At this point, I wouldn't be shocked if they forgot the rematch was even today.

Diddy looked around the locker room, spotting a note on the floor. He picked it up and began to read out loud.

Diddy: "Hey Funky and Diddy, sorry we couldn't make it to the rematch. Something came up, but you guys got this. Show those girls what the real deal is. -Waluigi."

Funky's face turned a deep shade of red.

Funky: That son of a-

Diddy: Funky, calm down. Maybe it's just a prank, they're probably just around the corner playing video games or something.

But deep down, Funky knew that wasn't the case. He had seen the look in Waluigi's eyes the day before. He knew he had gone too far with the joking around, and now it had come back to bite him.

Diddy: We can't just leave without playing the game, right?

Funky: No, we can't I wish we could tho, cause I'm still kinda tired and I don't wanna be here.

They both looked at each other with a mix of annoyance and determination.

Funky Kong watched from afar as The girls were laughing and chatting with each other while practicing. He let out a sad sigh from across the field.

But suddenly, a cloud of dust and smoke emerged from the horizon, and as it cleared, the unmistakable shapes of Waluigi and the rest of Team Waluigi came into view. They were running across the field, their energy palpable. Waluigi and Wario were jumping and screaming, their arms in the air as if they had just won the lottery.

Funky and Diddy's eyes lit up when they saw their friends, and they sprinted over to them, the sound of their footsteps echoing across the field.

Waluigi: What's up my homies! You guys ready to show those prissy girls how it's done?

Wario: Hey, Funky, you brought the heat with that outfit.

Funky: YEP, SURE DID!

Diddy Kong skipped aroudn playfully as he saw Yoshi with a worried expression.

Yoshi: Not agaaain...

He looked over at Luigi, who had knots in his stomach from the anxiety building up inside of him about how the rematch is going to go.

Diddy was so caught up in the moment he forgot what Funky's true goal was supposed to be for the rematch.

Waluigi: Ehhh, we'll be fiiiine Yosh, just imagine, us winning for a second time, showing that we're the true tryhards, who don't play around, hahaha

Yoshi: ugh, that's not gonna help resolve everything from last time, also we kinda need to do the opposite and play less...I don't know aggressive?

Waluigi: ehhh sure...anyway ARE WE READY TO SHIT ON THEM AGAIN TEAM?

Peach Toadette and Daisy overhead Waluigi shouting from across the field, and tried to ignore it.

Daisy: (Mumbling) As if we're scared of them.

Peach Toadette: They're just trying to psych us out.

They both nodded in agreement and continued to warm up, their determination stronger than ever.

Meanwhile, Funky froze in place as the girls took their positions behind the batting plate in a line, with the team captain, Daisy, first in line.

Waluigi: Take the same spots we did last time for the outfield, I'll pitch for now, Funky's up after me.

Funky froze again for a second, knowing that at some point he'll have to pitch to Daisy, which he wasn't looking forward to

Funky: Uh...ok...

Wario ran off into the outfield laughing like a maniac as Yoshi watched from 3rd base which he was standing on, he shook his head and sighed.

Yoshi: (Thinking to himself) Why do I even agree to these things...

Funky and Diddy took their positions in the outfield, Funky on the left and Diddy on the right. The tension was palpable as Waluigi took the mound. The crowd had gathered, mostly females from the Mushroom Kingdom, eagerly awaiting the start of the game. The anticipation was high, not just for the baseball match, but for the drama between Team Daisy and Team Waluigi.

The umpire blew his whistle, and the game was set to begin. Waluigi wound up, throwing a fastball straight at Daisy. She smacked it out of the park with surprising force. The crowd erupted in cheers, mostly from Team Daisy's supporters. Funky couldn't help but feel a twinge of admiration mixed with his guilt.

Daisy jogged around the bases, not looking at him once. As she reached home plate, she tossed her bat aside and turned to face Team Waluigi.

Daisy: (Shouting) Is that all you got, boys?

Funky crossed his arms as he stood just behind where the bases were, behind the infield, the sunrays were getting through his shades, blocking part of his vision as he tried to readjust them.

Wario: ehhh it's just one point...plus she's not that good anyway so It-

Yoshi and Luigi shushed him from across the field, trying to stop him from trash-talking just in case Daisy heard him.

Funky shivered once Wario started shit talking, Funky then glanced over at Daisy, who surprisingly didn't hear him.

Funky: (Mumbling) I hope she doesn't think I'm like that.

The game went on, with each team exchanging points back and forth. Funky's heart was racing as he waited for his turn to bat. He knew he had to make it right with Daisy, but every time he looked at her, she seemed more and more distant.

Finally, it was Funky's turn at the plate. He took a deep breath and stepped up to the plate, his sunglasses reflecting the sunlight beaming from the left side of the field.

He stuck out his surfboard with his leading hand in front of him, balled up in a fist to help with the leverage when he swung.

Daisy looked at his way of charging up to try and hit the ball as flaunting and unnecessary theatrics, and asked Peach to pitch instead.

Funky: Ughh...LIKE WHY?

Yoshi: Funky, you're the last person who needs to be asking wh-

Funky: SHUT UP I DIDN'T EVEN DO ANYTHING YET!

The crowd went silent as Peach took the mound, a soft smile playing on her lips. She threw the ball with surprising speed and precision, catching Funky off guard. He swung with all his might, but the ball flew right past him.

Strike one.

Funky's heart sank, and he could feel Daisy's eyes on him from the outfield. He took a moment to compose himself, remembering the necklace in his pocket. This was his chance to show her he cared.

He took a deep breath and stepped back, adjusting his sunglasses. The second pitch came, and he swung again, this time connecting with a satisfying crack, it wasn't an animation this time, however. The ball soared through the air, and Daisy took off after it. She jumped high, her golden hair flying out behind her, and caught the ball with ease.

The crowd gasped, and Funky felt his heart drop even further. He had hoped that hitting a home run would impress her, but instead, she had just shown him up. He jogged back to the bench, feeling the weight of his pride crushing him.

He saw Daisy laughing and grinning while pointing to the ball in her glove while walking back to the batting line, and getting behind everyone.

She turned around so her back faced his direction, and she smacked her booty two times.

Daisy: hahaha... what a fucking idiot...

Diddy: Wowww Funky you really just let her do that to you...

Funky: Sh- shut up, like please...

Funky was already over it, he heard Yoshi crack his bat against the ball in front of him and the others while still staring at Daisy run back to her position in a lazy dainty fashion.

Funky: I deadaass don't care anymore, I've been tired since this morning when I woke up at an early ass time to do some of MY OWN THINGS!...

Wario: Cheer up back there, we're not even halfway done yet.

Funky Kong rolled his eyes while they were waiting for Waluigi, their team captain, to get his chance to bat. Peach did a special pitch and sent the ball towards him at Mach 2 speed with pink hearts trailing it. Waluigi saw the ball whip by his Purple bat at lightspeed, nearly knocking Wario and Luigi in the eye.

Waluigi: AAAAaaah!

Daisy: STRIKE ONE LOSER!

Waluigi: SHUT UP WE'RE TRYNA FOCUS MISSY.

The ball whipped by his bat again as he was yelling, which meant another strike.

Waluigi: Oh ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

Peach giggled and looked over to Daisy, who had a slightly menacing careless grin on her face, chuckling with her glove over her mouth.

Diddy: Uh oh...

Wario: WALUIGI!

Luigi: W- Waluigi s-stop, you're j-just go-

Waluigi: SHUT UP PIPSQUEAK, YOU'RE ONLY SAYING SOMETHING NOW CAUSE YOUR 'CrrUuuUUsH", DAISY MADE ME GET OUT...THIS SHIT ISN'T EVEN FAIR IN THE FIRST PLA-

Peach threw the ball again, not giving a shit if Waluigi was ready or not, once he saw the ball whip by him a third time, his blood boiled as he struggled to rip his bat in half, striking it against the tall grass yelling out cuss words and shouting.

The crowd watched with shock and a bit of excitement, while Team Daisy couldn't contain their laughter at Waluigi's outburst. Daisy herself had to hold her stomach, tears forming in her eyes as she laughed hysterically.

Funky Kong couldn't help but feel a twinge of anger at Daisy's behavior, but he knew he had to keep his cool. He took a deep breath and tried to focus on the game.

The intermission between the two teams started. Funky walked over to the bench and took a seat next to Diddy.

Funky: (Mumbling) I need to talk to her.

Diddy: Who?

Funky: Daisy.

Diddy looked at him with a mix of surprise and concern.

Diddy: Honestly you shoulda did that before we even started...buuuut li-

Funky: I-i -i I was too nervous! Thats why!

Diddy: What? You? Nervous?

He started cackling loudly at Funky's words, banging the seat of the bench with his hand and kicking his feet out.

Diddy: Cmon now Funky you're just trying to make me laugh now...bro...no bro...you...nervous...pfffft HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAA-

Funky covered his face with his hands, fixing his overgrown wavy flakey brown hair. He let out a frustrating sigh and put his hand infront of Diddy while he was laughing, signaling him to stop.

Funky: You're not getting it are you?

Diddy: Clearly you didn't, you didn't get it when Dixie tried to explain it to you.

Funky: Ugh...whatever, atleast I have some levelance of maturity, but I might have to pop out and sh-

Diddy: FUNKY!

Funky Kong crossed his arms in anger and pushed Diddy off the bench onto the grass.

Funky: (Shouting) FINE I'LL GO TALK TO HER NOW IF THAT MAKES THE WORLD SPIN FOR YOU.

Diddy: Funky, wait!

Funky: WHAT NOW!? YOU WANTED ME TO GO TALK TO HER? NOW WHAT?

Diddy: I still can't get over you saying you were nervous...why were you nervous? Do you secretly like her or something? Is that why you've been tryna act all hyperactive and showoffy? Hmmm?

Diddy Kong's words made Funky grit his pearly white teeth as veins appeared on his muscular fur-coated arms.

Funky: Shut...the fuck up...now...

Diddy: I- i'm just saying like...oh...he left me already... Oh well, gotta wait till the next half of the baseball game starts up again.

With his heart racing, Funky stomped off towards the outfield where Daisy was playing catch with Peach, her laughter from before now replaced with a serious expression. She threw the ball with precision and caught it without looking, her eyes locked on Funky Kong with an angry expression on his face. He was looking back at Diddy Kong, who was trying to not laugh out loud again from across the field.

Peach: Daisy? Why are you-

Daisy put her hand over Peach's mouth and saw Funky Kong getting closer to them.

Daisy: Alright girls... time to move to another area...we can play catch somewhere else while the intermission is going on.

She sighed and sassily flicked her hair in Funky's direction, walking away from him with the rest of the girls to another area on the field far away from where he was standing.

Funky: (Mumbling) What the hell? Why is she playing so hard to get?

Diddy: Bro, she's not playing hard to get, she's just mad at you. You gotta apologize.

Funky: I know, I know...but...I don't know how to do it without looking like a fool.

Diddy: You already look like one with that outfit.

Funky looked down at his flashy attire and let out a nervous chuckle.

Funky: (Sigh) Alright, alright, I'll talk to her, I promise.

Diddy: Good, make sure you do it BEFORE the game ends, please...

Funky: Ok listen bro I can't-

Diddy: Funky...

Funky sighed and fell backwards in exhaustion and frustration listening to Diddy constantly reminding him to talk to Daisy.

Funky: Alright, alright, if she yells and has a tantrum again, it's your fault...

Diddy: Whatever...big guy...

Funky: WHY DOES EVERYONE KEEP CALLING ME THAT?

Once the Intermission ended:

The teams got back to their places, with Waluigi's team fielding, and Daisy's team batting.

Waluigi: Ok, Funky here...

Waluigi threw Funky the baseball as a way to tell him he's pitching for the 2nd half, and to no ones suprise, the first one he's pitching to is none other than Daisy, since captains bat first.

Waluigi: What? You scared?

Funky: Um...S-Scared of what? Getting yelled at by a chic?

Waluigi: Hehe, that's the spirit!

Funky took the mound, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. Daisy took her place at the plate, her eyes narrowed and focused on Funky. He took a deep breath and threw the first pitch. He leaned all the way to the left, head and everything, then threw his whole body to the left, sending the ball in her direction before leaning up with a flashy pose, a grin and an eyebrow raise as it hurled towards her. It was a wild one, going wide, curving inward, slightly to the right.

Daisy tried to swing for it since it was way outside, but she barely missed, almost tripping in the process. Her eyes widened with surprise and annoyance as the ball barely missed her, counting as strike 1.

Daisy: What the hell was that?

The crowd laughed, and Funky's teammates face palmed. He knew he had to get serious. He took the next pitch, trying to ignore the snickers from Team Daisy. This time, he threw the ball less flashy, it was straight and fast. It was a perfect strike, right down the middle. This was strike two.

Daisy's face flushed red with anger, Funky could see her stomping and fist fighting with the air with her bat.

Funky: oops...Fuck...

Waluigi: Nah, you're good bro, just keep playing normally, it's fine...you didn't show off that time!

Funky nodded, taking a deep breath. The next pitch, he threw with all his might, a fastball that would make any baseball pro jealous. It zipped past Daisy so fast she didn't even have a chance to swing. The crowd gasped as the umpire called it.

Umpire: STRIKE THREE YER OUT!

Daisy looked at the ump in disbelief, she was thrown off by the sudden change in pitching style. Funky couldn't help but let out a smug laugh.

Funky: (Shouting) Did you see that shit!?

Daisy: (Mumbling) Yeah, I saw it...too late.

Diddy: Funky, don't get cocky, remember why we're here...

Funky: SHUT UP AND PLAY OUTFIELD! MY GOD!

Daisy: Why are you yelling at your OWN TEAM FUNKY!?

Funky: ughh...I'm boutta crash out, I can't do this...

Peach: Daisy, ignore him, wait for the ball and try to play around his sillyness.

Daisy: I'm boutta play my foot in hi-...ugh...fine...

Funky Kong overheard her shit talk and readjusted his sunglasses, he decided to mix it up, risking everyone's sanity for a special pitch. He jumped up in the air, screaming, with glowing blue and white auroras and backgrounds swirling around him. The whole field darkened and flashed blue.

Waluigi: What the hell? YO WARIO YOU SEEING THIS?

Wario: I KNOW! THIS IS AWESOME!

Yoshi and Luigi saw the giant orb of blue and white auroras from the outfield, and lost all hope, they were done with his antics and theatrics.

Daisy was starstruck by the blinding lights, obstructing everyone's whole field of view.

Funky Kong was on his surfboard, kicking the baseball around with his feet while doing backflips, front flips, and corkscrews. He then threw the ball in the air, rode his surfboard in an upward motion, with water trailing it, and swatted the ball in her direction at the speed of light, causing the ball to glow white.

The crowd was in awe, some cheering, some confused, and some just plain terrified of the physics breaking display.

Daisy squinted her eyes, trying to spot the incoming ball. It was coming straight at her, she couldn't see it anymore.

Funky: (Shouting) Watch out for the blue streak, baby!

The crowd watched in shock as the ball disappeared and reappeared, the blue streak was the only hint of its existence. Daisy managed to catch a glimpse of it and swung her bat with all her might, connecting with the ball with a deafening crack.

She managed to hit the ball hard enough to where it was an animation homerun. Her whole team behind her was screaming and cheering.

The ball shot straight up into the sky, lighting up the area around it with a rainbow trail.

Funky took off his shades in disbelief.

Funky, Waluigi, and Wario: WHAT? HUH?

The crowd went wild, and Daisy strutted around the bases giggling and laughing, her smile wide and eyes gleaming with triumph. Funky couldn't believe it, his special pitch had been turned into a home run by her, an animated one at that. He threw his arms in the air in frustration.

Waluigi: FUNKY, THE FUCK WAS THAT?!

Funky: I was just trying to throw a fastball, okay!?

Diddy looked at Funky with a smirk, shaking his head.

Diddy: (Mumbling) Classic...

As Daisy reached home plate, she gave Funky the finger winked at him, which made his heart race even faster.

The game continued, and Funky's mind was elsewhere. He didn't know what was going on, he was lost in his thoughts about Daisy and the way she looked at him after he threw the glowing fastball. He felt a mix of anger, confusion, and a strange sort of excitement. He had to find a way to talk to her at the end of the game, and to resolve the constant rivalry between both of them.

Peach was next up to bat, Funky was shaking with the bal in his hand, unable to move any limbs at all for a few seconds as Peach looked at him, confused.

Peach: (Mumbling) Uh, Funky...are you okay?

Funky: Y-Yeah...I'm fine...I'm...fine...

He threw the pitch, and it went way over Peach's head, the ump called it a ball. He had to snap out of it, the game was important, but so was his friendship with Daisy. He took a deep breath and tried to focus on the task at hand.

The game went on, and Funky's team managed to hold their own despite his distraction. Each time he was pitching, he couldn't help but sneak glances at Daisy, acting all sassy and cocky everytime they scored a point, and throwing countless insults towards him throughout the whole game.

As the last inning approached, the score was tied. Funky knew he had to pull through for his team, not just for the win, but for Daisy. He took his spot in the outfield, and when Daisy was up to bat again, he was ready.

The ball was thrown, and she hit it high into the air. Wario took off running, his legs pumping as he watched the ball soar. He could feel the wind in his hat, the sun in his eyes, and he could hear bugs zooming by him from the constant thudding of his feet. Luigi saw the ball descending, and ran towards it as well, they both were standing directly under it, with Wario putting out his hand to try and catch it.

Daisy groaned and whined, stomping her foot impatiently as she waited for Wario to catch the ball. She knew she had hit it far, but she didn't expect them to be this slow. She twirled her bat and adjusted her gloves, her cheeks red with annoyance.

But just as Wario was about to make the catch, the ball slipped through his fingers. The crowd gasped in shock, and Daisy took off running, her eyes on the prize.

She ran as fast as she could, Funky saw her, she was a blur in his vision as he got a whiff of her irresistible cinnamon-y fragrance. But as He saw her rounding the bases, Luigi was running to the infield and threw the ball with all his might at third base, where Diddy was standing. he was spaced out and not paying attention, he managed to catch the ball without looking, right before Daisy touched 3rd base with her foot.

Waluigi: DAMN LUIGI! You're not as useless as I though-

Luigi: Listen, I-i'm only doing this to get it over with, for Daisy's sake...

Waluigi: Oh, your gIrLfRiEnD? right..., haha..., ohhhhh man...

Daisy, covered in sweat, looked at Diddy Kong with a baseball in his glove.

Daisy: (Sighs) Ugh...wait...am I out?

Daisy wiped her tan-skinned forehead as she looked in her teams direction. All of them nodded their heads, leaving Daisy in awe as she looked back at Diddy, who was holding the ball in his glove. He shrugged his head with a smirk on his face as he watched Daisy, out of breath, stare at him with a confused and angry look.

Funky: (Mumbling) Oop, she's about to do something...

Waluigi: (Mumbling) Might be right...

She fixed her hair while walking to the back of her teams line, and standing behind Peachette.

Peachette noticed her sweating and groaning behind her, making her move up until all she could see was the back of Rosalina.

Funky: Oh, nevermind we good...

Waluigi: Ok two more outs and we're straight.

Funky: (Mumbling) I hope we can keep up...

The tension was thick in the air as the game continued. Team Waluigi managed to keep Team Daisy from scoring any more runs, and soon it was their turn to bat in the bottom of the ninth inning. The score remained tied, and the pressure was on.

Waluigi stepped up to the plate, Peach still pitching as Daisy didn't wanna have to deal with the stress of Funky doing something flashy.

Diddy: If he slap hits here we're golden

Funky: There's a good chance they might dip for it tho.

Waluigi: (Mumbling) Oh, you're just full of hope aren't you, Diddy?

Waluigi took a deep breath and focused on the pink heart-emblazoned ball coming towards him. He swung with all his might and connected with a powerful smack, sending the ball soaring into the sky. The crowd held their breath, watching as the ball ascended, the sun glinting off its surface.

Daisy took a moment to watch the ball's trajectory, her eyes following it until it was a small speck in the vast blue sky. Her team was already cheering, expecting a victory. However, she noticed something strange.

The ball disappeared, following that was a laugh, a Boo Laugh, he had used an item to try and limit the other teams outfield abilities.

Daisy: what the f-

Waluigi cackled and giggled with an evil grin on his face, as he's been planning to cheat by using items the moment he stepped in the field, as one win wasn't enough, but this time the other teams defeat was from cheating.

Peach: Wait what?

Daisy floped on the floor head-first, not knowing where the ball was, untill it reappeared near Peachette, dropping on her foot and landing on the ground.

Daisy looked up at her from the infield, and her heart sunk.

Peachette was standing there, with a dead expression on her face, half closed eyes. She let out a yawn and picked the ball up with her glove.

Daisy: w- wha-

Peach: What happened to the ball?

Daisy: I don- PEACHEEEEEHHEEHEHETTE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? WHY DIDN'T YOU TRY AND CATCH IT?! IT WAS RIGHT NEXT TO YOU!

Peachette had a delayed reaction to her comment with an annoyed expression on her face.

Peachette: Oh...I'm sorry, I guess I zoned out for a bit there.

The crowd erupted in laughter, and Daisy couldn't help but feel a mix of frustration and embarrassment. Funky Kong, on the other hand, couldn't help but laugh once Daisy fell on her face and started screaming at Peachette for existing.

Funky: I can't, what the fuck even is this joke of a rematch...

Diddy was rolling around on the grass laughing at the hilarious accident, Daisy overheard his laughter and started to feel emotionally unstable again.

Daisy: (Standing up) IT'S NOT FUNNYYYYYY! STOP LAUGHING!

Peach: Daisy, calm it, just ignore them...

But Daisy's competitive spirit was fully ignited now, she wasn't gonna let this slide, she was gonna win this match no matter what it takes.

Toadette: Hey Daisy! Waluigi used an item, that's why the ball disappeared!

Daisy: (Shouting) HE WHAAAT?!

Her eyes turned to slits as she watched Waluigi and Wario high-five each other, while her own team looked at her with a mix of confusion. Her cheeks burned with a furious blush, and she could feel the heat rising from the ground.

Peach: Waluigi that the hell? Why would you? ugh...

Peach let out a shaky sigh as she fixed her blonde hair, attempting to throw the ball to Wario next as Waluigi laughed and grinned as he went to the back of his team's line.

Peach: (Mumbling) What's gotten into him? He's not usually like this...

Funky, still feeling the sting of Daisy's reaction to his flashyness, felt a flicker of anger at the cheating move. Despite his own flaws, he knew that cheating was a low blow, especially in a game where everyone's pride was on the line.

Funky: Waluigi, why? Why?

Waluigi just smirked and gave a cheeky thumbs up in response.

Funky's eyes narrowed as he looked his teammate with a disappointed look.

Daisy: Like why is he using cheeeeaats...like whyyyyy...uuuuuughhhhh AAAAAAAAAAAAAA! WHY WOULD YOU DO THAAAATTT!

Daisy screamed directly towards Waluigi's team so loud, she started to gargle up saliva in the back of her throat.

Waluigi: (Grinning) It's just a little game within the game, Daisy! Don't take it so seriously!

Peach walked over to her to try and calm her down before they finish the game, as it was the last inning to try and prevent them from scoring anything.

Wario stood there impatiently as he scratched his behind before putting his hand back on his bat. Luigi, the teammate behind him, took a tiny step back afterwards.

Wario: (Mumbling) Oh no she's gonna blow a fuse...

Funky watched as Daisy's fists tightened, knuckles white with anger. He couldn't help but still feel a pang of guilt for his antics yesterday.

Peach skipped gracefully back to the pitcher's mound and threw the ball at Wario. She then walked back over to Daisy and continued trying to persuade her to not lose her mind any further.

Rosalina stood on 3rd base sighing, looking at Waluigi's team in a line, Wario in the front of it, arguing with Luigi about some random topic she couldn't even make out. Her face was painted with a sad expression, already pitcuring the end of the game as she gulped in fear.

Wario was still shouting at Luigi, until he pointed forward, indicating the ball flying towards them.

This instinctively told Wario to swing or he gets a strike, in which case his outcome wasn't the ladder.

He swung so clean it was an animation line drive, low and fast across the whole field, the rest of the team behind him cheered and yelled as soon as it happened. The girls team was all over the place, Toadette was sleeping on the grass in outfield, and Peachette wasn't paying attention and or spaced out from being so spread apart from the rest of her team's positions.

The ball flew across the whole field, and into the background, over the net, indicating a Go-Ahead home run. Wario ran the bases with pride, holding out his hands with Peace signs gloating and yelling. He ran right past Peach and Daisy. The two girls tried their best to ignore his annoying yapping as he ran to home.

Waluigi: YEP WE GOT THIS BOIS

Yoshi heard him from where he was standing in the line and shook his head.

Yoshi: Funky, man, you gotta focus.

Funky: Yeah, I know, I know. But it's hard, you know?

Yoshi: If you don't get your act together, we're gonna lose.

Funky nodded solemnly, taking a deep breath and trying to push his emotions aside.

As Daisy took her spot on the bench, Peach stepped up to the plate. She took a moment to look over at Funky, giving him a reassuring smile before facing the pitcher's mound again. Funky could feel the weight of the world lift from his shoulders as Daisy took a moment to compose herself. He knew he had to step up and do the right thing, not just for the team, but for her too.

The next batter was Yoshi, and he managed to hit the ball, sending it into the outfield. Team Daisy's spirits lifted a bit, and Funky took it as a sign that maybe, just maybe, they could turn this around.

Peach pitched again, and Funky took his place at bat. He looked over at Daisy, who was still on the bench with her hand over her face. He took a deep breath and focused on the ball, ignoring the flashy lights and distractions around him.

Funky: p- Peach...

He stood there...spaced out, looking at Peach as the ball was coming his way.

Diddy: FUNKY SNAP OUT OF IT!

Funky jumped up in the air out of fear, and saw the ball inches away from him, he managed to charge up his surfboard to hit it just in time, and he got a really lucky animation home run.

Diddy: YEEEAAAHHH!

Wauigi: WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Funky Kong screamed and laughed as he ran the bases, grabbing Peach and lfting her up in his muscular grip as he ran, his team facing him at home plate with their hands out. He saw this as Daisy was walking back onto the field, her hands covering her face still, she glanced at Funky Running to home base as he gently sat Peach back on the ground near Rosalina on 3rd, and rubbed her hair.

Once he got to home base, he did a frontflip into all of their arms as they screamed and cheered for him.

Funky: YEEEHEHEHEHAAHAS, WOOOOOOOOOOO! YESIRRRRRR BABYYYYY!

Daisy was watching Waluigi's team celebrate for the second time, but it wasn't a boastful celebrtion, it was an honest one. This didn't change her emotions though, as she slowly turned facing Toadette, and walked away with her head down, coughing every few seconds. She fell to the ground, her face all red and her nose was puffy.

Rosalina: Oh..um...Daisy?

Peach and Rosalina exchanged a concerned look as they approached her, while the rest of the team awkwardly tried to ignore the commotion.

Daisy looked up, her eyes watery and nose still red, she wiped her mouth with the back of her glove, showing her embarrassment.

Peach: Are you okay, Daisy?

Daisy: I... I don't know, I just...

Her voice trailed off as she started coughing again, her body convulsing with each hack. Peach and Rosalina looked at each other, unsure of what to do.

Finally, she composed herself enough to speak.

Daisy: I just... I need a minute...

Peach: Of course, take all the time you need.

Rosalina: Yeah, we're here for you.

The two of them gave her a gentle pat on the back before retreating to give her some space. Meanwhile, the rest of Team Daisy was in a frenzy, trying to figure out how to recover from the latest setback.

Daisy took a deep breath and stood up, wiping the tears from her eyes. She looked around at her team, then back at Team Waluigi, who were still celebrating. Her mind raced with thoughts of anger, embarrassment, and confusion.

"Why is this happening? What have I done to deserve this?"

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the umpire calling the end of the game.

Peach: (Mumbling) Maybe she's allergic to something...

Daisy took a step forward, her eyes on the ground as she tried to compose herself. Suddenly, she couldn't hold it in anymore and she let out a cough, and to everyone's surprise, vomit spurted out of her mouth and onto the pristine green grass. She gagged and coughed, her body shaking as her stomach emptied itself. The smell of sour stomach acid filled the air, and the other players took a collective step back.

Peach and Rosalina's eyes widened in shock, but their immediate concern was for Daisy. They rushed over to her side, but she waved them off, not wanting to be a burden. She could feel the burning in her throat and the embarrassment washing over her like a tidal wave. She didn't know why she was suddenly so sick, but she knew it couldn't be good.

The crowd went silent, watching as Daisy's body convulsed. Even the usually boisterous Team Waluigi was at a loss for words. Peach and Rosalina looked at each other, then back at Daisy, unsure of what to do next. They decided to give her a moment to recover, stepping back a few feet and watching her with worried expressions.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Daisy's coughing fit subsided. She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and looked up at her friends, her eyes red and puffy. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she took deep, ragged breaths. Peach and Rosalina exchanged a concerned look before walking back over to her. They knelt down beside her, their hands on her shoulders.

Peach: Daisy, what's wrong? Are you okay?

Daisy: (Sobbing) I don't know... I just...

Her voice was barely above a whisper, her shoulders shaking with the force of her sobs.

Rosalina: It's not about Funky Kong is it?

Daisy nodded, her eyes still glued to the ground as the tears fell from her eyes like rain.

Peach: Daisy, we're all friends here. We can work this out.

Daisy looked up, her eyes meeting Peach's with a mix of anger and sadness.

Daisy: (Sobbing) I know, I just... I can't take it anymore.

The two girls pulled her into a hug, and she let out a loud wail into their shoulders. They held her tight, whispering soothing words as the crowd and players from both teams looked on, unsure of what to do.

Funky, watching from afar, felt a pang of guilt. He messed up for a second time, ignoring all pointers Dixie gave him before he arrived. He felt a pain in his stomach, but continued conversing with his team about the epic clutch win, that was kind of undeserved.

Luigi sighed and glanced at Daisy across the field, with Rosa and Peach snuggled up right next to her.

Toadette woke up from her slumber in the field,

Toadette: wh- what happened? Is the game over yet?

She looked up and saw Peach Daisy and Rosalina all huddled up together, and Peachette grossed out after seeing Daisy puke on the grass.

She walked over to them rubbing her eyes, confused.

Toadette: What happened? Did we win?

Daisy: NO! WE DIDN'T!

Daisy's face was covered in tears and black makeup as she yelled at Toadette with her eyes closed,

Peachette walked off with Waluigi's team in pure boredom, they were heading out of the field gate, and over to the picnic table Mario set up for all of them after the game ended.

Yoshi: Ugh, Waluigi, you really had to cheat? You made Daisy cry, AGAIN!

Waluigi: Oh, come on! It's just a game, plus we won! What's the big deal?

They both took deep breaths as they approached the picnic area, where Mario was setting up the food, the smell of hot dogs and mushroom pizza filled the air.

Mario looked up from his work and wiped his cap shaded forehead with a napkin, sweat trickling down his brow.

Mario: Hey guys, how was the game? Did everyone have a good time?

Waluigi and Wario exchanged glances, trying to read each other's thoughts. They both knew that if they told the truth, they'd be in hot water, especially with Daisy's friendship at stake.

Waluigi: Oh, you know, the usual. Just a bit of fun in the sun!

Wario: Yep, yep. Just a casual game.

Mario nodded, seemingly satisfied with their response. He turned back to the food, placing a large, juicy hot dog on a bun with a dollop of ketchup.

Mario: Did everyone play fair?

The question hung in the air like an unspoken accusation. Waluigi's smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered.

Waluigi: Oh, of course, Mario! We all had a blast!

Wario nodded in agreement, his eyes darting towards the field where the girls were still huddled around Daisy.

Mario: That's great to hear. Did Daisy enjoy herself?

Waluigi's heart skipped a beat, but he played it cool.

Waluigi: Oh, she's just...uh, you know, catching her breath. She's a real champ out there!

Mario's gaze shifted to the field, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in the scene. He could sense that something was off, but he didn't want to press the issue.

Mario: Well, I hope everyone is okay. Let's get this food going, shall we?

The two of them nodded, eager to change the subject. Funky looked down at Diddy with a nervous expression on his face as they walked behind Waluigi and Wario. Yoshi walked ahead and sighed as he took a seat before everyone else.

Peachette was running out of the field with a boatload of her stuff, and even her own food in a Pink glittery pouch, she caught up with Waluigi's team, catching her breath as she followed behind them, waiting to dig in and eat for the first time since last night when she fell asleep on Peach's couch without eating her popcorn.

Peach: (Mumbling) Daisy...I hope you're okay...

Peach's voice was barely audible, but Funky heard it and felt the same way. He knew Dixie wasn't going to look up to him as a laid back, cool, chill guy once she hears about the rematch.

He sighed, anxiously sitting down on the opposite side of Yoshi, Diddy followed and sat next to him on his left, directed towards the field.

Waluigi and Wario were laughing and joking around about the game still, and they sat next to each other, Waluigi happening to be Next to Funky on his right.

Waluigi: Like you can't say you're tough if you start pouting and crying like a baby over some silly little stunts, I'm telling you!

Wario: Let's push that aside for now and chow down, baby!

Funky Kong covered the lower portion of his face with his hand and set his elbow down on the table. He was starting to think maybe this whole rematch was supposed to mean something, not just playing for fun again.

Diddy looked over to see Peachette arriving, with Rosalina, Daisy, Peach and Toadette far behind her, Peachette's bags and accessories she was carrying made alot of noise as she went over to Mario to ask him about something unrelated to the baseball game.

Funky glanced behind him, seeing Mario get the rest of the food prepared before everyone is allowed to eat.

Diddy Kong tapped Funky's shoulder to ask him a question as he heard footsteps approaching the table all of them were sitting at.

Diddy: What's the matter, Funky?

Funky: It's just... I don't know if this was the right move. Daisy's so upset.

Diddy: Maybe you should talk to her, then?

Funky: I can't, Diddy, she's gonna kill me if I do.,.and I'm not dealing with it, let's just eat, my stomach hurts and im starving...

Diddy looked over at him with concern. He knew his friend had a good heart, but sometimes his over-the-top antics got the best of him.

Diddy: (Mumbling) Maybe you should have thought of that before you wore that outfit and acted like a clown out there.

Funky sighed and nodded, realizing he had to face the music eventually. He picked up a slice of pizza, the cheese stretching like a rubber band before snapping back into place.

Meanwhile, Peachette had joined them at the picnic table, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the food.

Peachette: Oh boy, I'm starving! Did anyone save me a slice?

Mario chuckled and handed her a plate with a wink.

She started to salivate at the slice of pizza in her plate, she noticed a tiny gap between Wario and Waluigi, and without them noticing, she sat down in-between them.

Waluigi and Wario's laughter abruptly stopped, and they both froze like two statues.

Peachette: (Cheerfully) Hey guys, thanks for saving me a spot!

Waluigi and Wario exchanged a look of pure horror, their smiles dropping faster than the temperature in an icebox. They both leaned away from her, trying to create space, but she didn't catch the hint.

Waluigi: (Forced laugh) Oh, haha! You're such a riot, Peachette!

Wario: Yeah, but maybe you should sit over there, with the...uh...the...

He gestured awkwardly to the other side of the table, where there was an empty spot next to the giant pizza box, as if it were the VIP section.

Peachette looked over, confused.

Peachette: But...why?

Her innocent question hung in the air like a pebble thrown into a pond of silence. Funky noticed the tension and felt his heart sink. He knew he had to try and do something.

Waluigi: Oh, no reason, just thought you'd like the company over there.

Wario: Yeah, plus we need to talk strategy for next time.

Funky stepped in before Peachette could say anything.

Funky: Waluigi, don't, let her-

Waluigi: We're tryna like, vibe with eachother, and you're kinda in the way...so can you like...go?

Peachette put down her slice and looked around with a worried face.

Peachette: b- but...

Wario: Me and my best friend over here are trying to have some fun and vibe, we can't do that with you in the way!

Peachette's eyes widened as the reflections in them got shinier, her lips trembling a bit.

Peachette: I- oh my god... Waluigi, I sit next to you when you me and Luigi a- are in a band setting with everyone else o- or just by ourselves practicing, why can't I sit by you n-

Waluigi rolled his eyes and looked back at the field for a quick second before snapping back to Peachette.

Waluigi: WE'RE NOT PLAYING SAXOPHONE IN A MUSICAL SETTING YOU DUMBASS! THAT'S WHY!

Peachette gasped at the remark, her arms coming together as she jolted backwards, her booty slid towards Wario as she bumped into him.

Wario: oh my god WHY? You ruin our fun and now you bump into one of us, FOR NO REASON?

Peachette's breathing got super uneven, as her hands started to shake. Mario watched from the tree he was standing next to, getting the last hunk off food out one of the bags on the other table.

Yoshi and Luigi were waiting for Mario to come to his seat right by the two of them so they can tell him the actual truth about the rematch after all this time.

Waluigi: Me you and that green pipsqueak over there sit by eachother or stand by eachother in a band because WE PLAY THE SAME INSTRUMENTS, WE ALL PLAY SAXOPHONES, I ONLY SIT NEXT TO YOU BECAUSE I PLAY THE TENOR SAX WHICH IS THE SECOND LOWEST ONE, YOU PLAY THE LOWEST ONE, SO I HAVE TO SIT NEXT TO YOU, IT'S NOT A CHOICE LIKE AT THIS STUPID TABLEE...GRAAH!

Waluigi threw his arms up in the air as everyone watched him crash out at Peachette.

Peachette: well I- im...I-I'm sorry. I didn't know...

Her voice was trembling and she quickly stood up. She looked around the table, her eyes scanning for a friendly face, but all she found was a sea of uncomfortable silence and averted gazes.

Diddy: oohhhh...wow

Funky shook his and looked as Peachette stood there, on the verge of crying with her plate in her hand.

Funky: Hey guys, maybe we should just...

Waluigi: No, let her go, she's ruining our vibe.

Peachette took a step back, her vision blurry with water forming around everything she was looking at as she walked to the other table, by her self.

Mario glanced over at her as he sat his stuff down by Luigi on the table everyone was sitting at.

Funky sighed and took a bite out of his pizza, pulling out his phone and setting it on the table right by him.

Funky: (Mumbling to himself) This isn't right...

Diddy nodded in agreement, his eyes flicking over to Peachette, who was sitting by herself, nibbling on a sad-looking slice of pizza.

Diddy: Funky, maybe now's the time to tal-

Funky: NO! (whispering) Don't...you dare... Mario is diagonally across from us...don't...

Mario looked up for a second, and decided to go back to eating his pizza once he sat down next to his brother Luigi.

Waluigi showed Wario a video of some guy backflipping and hitting a donut sign down in the most comedic way possible. They both giggled to themselves, trying not to disturb the silence after Peachette got bullied away from everyone by the two of them.

Funky: Ughh.. the fuck are they laughing at...

Diddy: Ion know... you got any spare hand wipes by the way?

Funky: yes, why...

Diddy showed him his hands, they were covered in pizza sauce and grease.

Funky: Bro what the? Ugh...here...

He pulled out a napkin from his bag sitting right below his feet, and gave it to him.

Diddy took it gratefully, wiping off his hands with a grumble.

Diddy: Thanks, Funky.

Funky rolled his eyes, he stared at his phone, trying to find a list he saw online earlier of the upcoming Mario Go Kart tournament details for next month.

The silence was broken after so long with Waluigi and Wario geeking around, Mario Yoshi and Luigi talking quietly to eachother, with Luigi explaining the truth that unfolded during the game, and Diddy Kong humming a tune in his head he had heard a long time ago.

Not before long Rosalina, Daisy, Peach and Toadette were making it close to the picnic table.

Diddy: Yo, Funky, I forgot, I gotta go get my leftover banana snacks, ya know, the ones we got from yesterday?

Funky: Yeeeea?

Diddy: I'll be right back.

He sprung off the long bench, and ran back into the field to get his snack bag from yesterday. Leaving open space next to Funky Kong. for the rest of the girls to sit.

Daisy so happened to sit by Funky Kong, with Peach and Toadette on her left. Rosalina decided to sit across from all of them, next to Yoshi, on his left.

She ignored his prescense for the most part once she sat down, sniffling and lifting up the towel placed over her slice or pizza, still warm and hot after sitting for so long. There was a tiny area of space between the both of them though, as she saw Diddy get up from his spot before the arrived at the area.

Funky Kong got a whiff of her cinnamon fragrance again as he sat down, but with a slight mix of an offputting smell, which he couldn't make out.

Waluigi glanced over at her for a second before asking Funky a question about what new addition to the Mariokart Song singles album is Mario planning for us to play.

Funky: Oh man, I heard he's gonna bring back some old school tracks, maybe like Rainbow Road from like...the 64?

Wario: He's definetly writing a bunch of sheet music for an N64 track, we haven't done one of those yet I don't think.

Funky: Eh...true...But which one?

Waluigi: Eh...maybe Choco Mountain?

Wario: bro he's not doing that...

Waluigi: Well...good God I don't know any other ones!

Funky leaned back and took a deep breath, feeling a bit awkward.

Funky: Maybe we should just... not talk about it right now?

Waluigi nodded, looking over at Daisy, who was still visibly upset.

Wario: You still feeling down, Funky boy?

Funky: Yes, and Don't call me that again...

He glanced over at Peachette who fell asleep with her head on the other table and sighed.

Waluigi Why you glancing over at her for?

Funky: Oh, I just feel like...I dunno, like we should check on her or something.

Waluigi: Nah, she's fine.

Wario: Probably just tired from crying her eyes out.

The two of them snickered, but Funky couldn't find it in himself to laugh. He knew he had to do something to make this right.

Funky: (Standing up) I'll be back, Waluigi, put my back in my sitting spot so no one sits here.

He walked over to Peachette, who was now snoring softly. Gently, he nudged her shoulder, but that wouldnt wake her.

Funky: Hey, Peachette...Peachette...

He whispered her name, trying not to disturb the other conversations happening at the picnic tables.

Funky: (Sighs) Cmon...Peachette...

He placed his hand under her cheek, lifting it gently to get her to look at him, but she was out cold. He sighed again, and with a bit more effort, picked her up, and set her on his lap, her head resting on his shoulder.

Waluigi: What the...Funky? What are you doing?

Funky ignored the question, stroking her hair gently with his thumb.

Funky: (Whispering) Hey, Peachette, you okay?

Peachette's eyes fluttered open, blinking sleepily. She looked up at Funky, still groggy.

Peachette: (Sleepy) Funky? What...what happened?

Funky: You fell asleep, kiddo.

He chuckled softly, his heart warming up seeing her so vulnerable. He knew she wasn't okay, and it pained him to see her like this. Funky leaned over and whispered into Peachette's ear.

Funky: (Whispering) Why do they always gotta act so two-faced, huh?

Her eyes grew wide as she realized what he meant. She sat up with a start, almost knocking her head against his chin.

Peachette: (Whispers) What do you mean?

Funky: You know, Waluigi and Wario. Like when Waluigi plays in our band and stuff like that with everyone else, he's normally not rude and a huge jerk but everywhere else he just...I don't know... Him and Wario always clowning around, its weird...

Peachette blushed, looking down at her plate of half-eaten pizza.

Peachette: I-I don't know, Funky. Maybe they're just...tired from the game.

Her voice was small, and Funky could see the hurt in her eyes. He sighed and gently lifted her chin with his thumb, making her meet his gaze.

Funky: (Whispers) Nah, kiddo. They're just like that. But you don't have to put up with it, you know?

Her eyes searched his, looking for some kind of reassurance. Funky gave her a small, comforting smile.

Peachette: (Whispers) But they're my friends...

Funky: (Softly) And they should treat you better. They messed up today, that's all. Just remember that.

He picked her up and swung her onto his lap, holding her tightly. Her cheek pressed against his chest, and she could feel the warmth of his body and the steady beat of his heart. It was a stark contrast to the coldness she had felt from Waluigi and Wario.

Yoshi and Luigi looked over, surprised by Funky's sudden show of affection and care. Peach raised an eyebrow, Daisy just ignored all things around her, glancing here and there sometimes while finishing her pizza rightt next to Funky Kong's bag.

Waluigi looked over his shoulder, trying to see what Luigi and Yoshi were looking at, He turned behind where he was sitting, and say Funky Kong, but no Peachette on the other table.

Wario: Um, Waluigi? What you looking at?

Waluigi: Is Peachette even over there anymore?

Wario: Ohhh, wait she isn't over there...huh, anywa-

Yoshi: she is, Funky's got her though, trying to make her feel better after...yesterday...

Waluigi: What? Funky's got her in his lap?!

Wario: (Standing up) What the- (Followed by a high pitched ew)

Yoshi: (Nods) Yes, and they look pretty cozy too.

Their exaggerated faces and loud 'ew' echoed through the picnic area, causing a scene as everyone's eyes snapped over to them. Funky felt his face heat up, and Peachette looked absolutely mortified.

Daisy: Will you two just quit it? Can't you see she's upset?

Waluigi: (Mockingly) Oh, poor little Peachette, crying over not being able to sit between us...boohoo!

Wario: Yeah, maybe she needs a nap and some milk.

Daisy's grip tightened on her plate, and she slammed it down onto the table.

Daisy: (Standing up) That's it, I've had enough of your shit, Waluigi!

Her eyes flashed with anger, and everyone at the table went quiet, the only sound being the distant echo of the waves on the beach.

Waluigi: What's your problem, Daisy? It's just a joke!

Wario: (Standing up) Yeah, you're just too sensitive!

Daisy stepped over to the edge of the bench, her face flushed with rage.

Daisy: (Shouting) Sensitive? You think I'm just being sensitive? You're the ones who can't even play a game without being complete assholes!

Her voice was loud, and it carried across the picnic area. Peach looked uncomfortable, but she didn't say anything. Funky and Peachette watched the exchange, both surprised and a little scared by Daisy's sudden outburst.

Waluigi: (Standing up too) Oh, so now you're gonna start a fight over this?

Daisy: (Standing up) No, I'm not starting a fight, I'm finishing one!

Before anyone could react, Daisy jumped off the bench and launched herself at Waluigi. He stumbled backward, trying to dodge her, but she was too quick. With a swift kick, she nailed him right in the crotch, and he dropped to the ground like a sack of bricks, clutching himself and screaming in pain.

Wario: (Standing up) Daisy, what the hell?!

Yoshi: D-Daisy! What are you doing?!

Funky and Peachette were both on their feet now, staring in shock at the scene unfolding before them. Daisy was standing over Waluigi, her eyes blazing.

Daisy: (Shouting) That's for insulting Peachette and for all the crap you two have pulled today!

Waluigi was rolling on the ground, groaning and holding his crotch. Wario looked at Daisy with a mix of shock and anger.

Wario: (Standing up) You're gonna pay for that, Daisy!

Peach tried to intervene, but Daisy held her hand up to stop her.

Daisy: (Standing firm) No, Peach. This is my fight.

Funky stepped in, placing a hand on Daisy's shoulder.

Funky: (Firmly) Daisy, maybe we should just calm down and talk this ou-

Daisy: ... GET YOUR HAND... OFF OF MEE!

Her voice was filled with venom as she shrugged Funky's hand off her shoulder, turning to face him with fire in her eyes.

Funky took a step back, raising his hands in defense.

Funky: Daisy, wait, I just-

But she wasn't listening. Daisy's anger was a wildfire, and it was clear that nothing would put it out until she had her say. She stepped over Waluigi's writhing form and got right in Wario's face.

Daisy: (Shouting) And you! You're just as bad! You're always egging him on, acting like a pair of bullies!

Wario: (Standing firm) Bullies?! You're the one attacking innocent bystanders here!

Waluigi, still in agony, managed to push himself into a sitting position, glaring up at Daisy.

Waluigi: (Through gritted teeth) Yeah, what gives you the right?

Daisy's eyes narrowed, and she took a step back, breathing heavily.

Daisy: (Shouting) The right?! The right?! You guys never think about anyone but yourselves! You didn't think about how your cheating would make me feel, you didn't think about how your words would hurt Peachette!

Her voice was shaking with rage, and everyone was watching, unable to believe the scene before them. The tension in the air was so thick, it could be cut with a knife.

Peach: (Standing up) Daisy, please, let's just go.

Daisy: (Turning) No, Peach. They need to know.

She turned back to Waluigi and Wario, her chest heaving with each breath.

Daisy: (Shouting) I'm not playing... I'm-

Before she could finish, Funky stepped in again, trying to be the voice of reason.

Funky: Daisy, please, let's just talk about this!

Peachette: (Standing up) Funky, don't-

But it was too late. Daisy's fury was uncontainable, and she turned her wrath on Funky, throwing wild punches and kicks in his direction. Funky's eyes widened in surprise, but his instincts took over as he tried to dodge and deflect her blows.

Funky: (Grunting) Daisy, please!

Her fists and feet flew at him with a ferocity that was unmatched by the gentle grace she usually exuded. Despite his efforts to avoid harming her, Funky found himself in a situation where he had to defend himself using his primal side, and his ape instincts. With a heavy heart, he caught her by the waist and, with a grunt of effort, body slammed her onto the picnic table.

The impact echoed through the area, and everyone froze, their eyes glued to the scene. The table wobbled under the weight, but held firm. Daisy's eyes were wide with shock and pain, but she was otherwise uninjured. The only sound was the distant crash of waves against the beach.

Mario: (Standing up) What the-

He looked at Daisy, then at Funky, his face a mix of disbelief and anger.

Mario: (Firmly) Funky, what's going on here?

Funky up at him, sweat beading on his furry brow, his heart racing. He didn't know what to say, his mind racing with the events that had just unfolded.

Funky:I-I just...

Peachette: (Standing up) Funky was just trying to help!

Waluigi: Holy shit! What the-

Yoshi and Luigi were traumatized, and they looked at Funky, in fear, shock and in genuine awe. Rosalina walked over to Daisy as she fell off the table, with all plates that were on top of it following her trail. She was whimpering and holding her ankle.

Rosalina: Are you okay? Did you hurt yourself?

Daisy: (Whispers) It's fine...

Her voice was filled with pain and defeat, not because of her fall but because of the weight of her own words and actions.

Mario stepped forward, his expression stern and his voice firm.

Mario: That's enough. This is a picnic, not a battleground. If we can't play a simple game of baseball without all this drama, then maybe we shouldn't be playing at all.

The group fell silent, their eyes on Mario. The gravity of his words hung in the air like a dark cloud.

Mario: (Continues) From now on, any future games are going to be played with respect and good sportsmanship. No more of this toxicity, or I'm calling them off. We're a team, and we need to start acting like one.

Everyone looked at each other, the tension palpable. Funky swallowed hard, knowing he had played a part in this mess.

Funky: (Nods) You're right, Mario. I'm sorry.

Daisy slowly got to her feet, her eyes red from crying. She looked around at her friends, then back at Mario.

Daisy: (Quietly) I'm sorry too.

Waluigi and Wario exchanged a look, their faces a mix of surprise and anger.

Waluigi: (Standing up) You can't just cancel our games! That's not fair!

Wario: Yeah, we were just having some fu-

Rosalina: Can you two shut up?

Everyone was caught off guard by Rosa raising her voice, as she doesn't raise it often.

Peach: Wha- Daisy, come with me...this is too much for me and you as well. Let's go...

Peach offered a gentle hand to Daisy, but she was too busy glaring at the two bullies that were now arguing with Rosalina and Luigi.

Funky: (Interrupting) Daisy, can I talk to you for a sec?

Daisy's eyes snapped to Funky, the rage still burning within her, but she took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. She nodded, and Funky took a step closer.

Funky: (Nervously) Look, I know I messed up. I know I hurt you, and I'm sorry. Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?

Daisy's expression softened slightly, but she didn't turn to face him fully. She spoke without looking up.

Daisy: (Quietly) Just...don't do it again.

Funky's heart sank. He knew it was going to take more than words to fix this, but he had to start somewhere. He took another step closer and reached out to gently hug her from behind.

Funky: (Softly) I promise, Daisy. I'll be better.

Daisy tensed up immediately, her body rigid in his embrace. She tried to pull away, grunting and wiggling to free herself, but Funky held firm.

Funky: (Whispers) I know you're still mad at me, and you have every right to be. But I'm here, and I'm not letting go until you believe me.

Her grunts turned into sighs, and she finally stopped struggling. Funky felt a bit of relief, but he knew the battle was far from over. He held her tightly, feeling her body relax ever so slightly against his.

Daisy: (Whispers) Fine. Just...just stop it.

Funky: (Whispers) I'm not gonna stop being your friend, Daisy. And I'm not gonna stop trying to make this right.

He felt her shoulders shake slightly, and he knew she was crying again. He didn't let go, just kept his arms around her, offering her the warmth and comfort she so desperately needed.

After a moment that felt like an eternity, Daisy leaned back into his embrace, her head resting on his shoulder.

Daisy: (Whispers) Okay...thank you.

Funky: (Nods) Anytime, Daisy.

He gently petted her head, feeling the softness of her hair beneath his hand. Then, he rubbed her left cheek with the pad of his thumb, feeling the warmth of her skin.

Peach: (Worried) Daisy, are you okay?

Daisy turned to face Funky, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

Daisy: (Nods) Yeah, I'm okay.

Funky released her, and she took a step back, wiping at her eyes. She looked up at him, her expression a mix of anger and something else, something softer.

Daisy: I still, can't truly see you as a friend like the others but...I'll be less, toxic towards you for just being yourself. If that's what you want.

Funky's heart swelled with hope. It wasn't a full apology, but it was a start. He nodded solemnly.

Funky: That's all I ask for, Daisy.

The two of them stood there for a moment, the weight of their conversation hanging heavily between them.

Peach: Daisy! Come on! Let's go prepare for the rehearsal tomorrow for the new remix we have to record with the others!

Daisy: Coming!

Daisy waved Funky Kong goodbye before skipping and running over to Catch up to Peach, her cinnamon scent fading away as the distance between her and Funky got larger.

Funky watched her go, feeling a mix of relief and regret. He knew that Daisy's words were the closest he was going to get to an apology today, and he had to accept that. He turned back to the others, who were still all arguing.

Not long after that whole conversation with Daisy, his biggest rival, he saw Diddy Kong return with his snack back from yesterday.

Diddy: I'm back, i'm guessing I took too long.

Funky: Yes...you did. Fortunately, I guess, you missed more drama.

Diddy looked at Funky, confusion etched on his face as he took in the scene. The picnic area was a mess, with plates and food scattered everywhere, and everyone was either arguing or trying to calm down.

Diddy: What the heck happened here?

Funky took a deep breath, trying to decide where to begin.

Funky: It's a long story, Diddy. But the short version is that Waluigi and Wario were being jerks, and Daisy had enough.

Diddy's eyes widened in surprise.

Diddy: (Whispers) And you just let her go?

Funky: I didn't exactly have a choice. Besides, she's not in the mood to talk anymore. I got her to sort of back off a bit though, so she won't be all up in my ass no more.

Diddy looked at Funky with a mix of admiration and concern.

Diddy: You know, Funky, you got a way with words, but maybe not the best way with 'em.

Funky rolled his eyes but couldn't argue with that. He had always been more of a doer than a talker.

Diddy: (Sighs) Well, let's clean this mess up. We can't leave it like this.

The two of them set to work, collecting the scattered plates and cups, tossing the half-eaten food into a nearby bin. The others slowly followed suit, the fight draining out of them as they worked together to restore order. The only sounds were the clink of plates and the occasional sniffle from Peachette.

Mario: (To the group) Okay, everyone, let's take a deep breath, and try to behave better tomorrow amongst ourselves, especially since we have to practice for that remix of a special N64 map named after me!

Funky: Wait, don't tell me...is it-

Wario: Ugh, like, NO ONE LIKES THAT MA-

Waluigi: N64 Mario Raceway?

Everyone groaned and dumped their heads into their hands.

Waluigi: What? Isn't that the course we're trying to remix the music of?

Mario: It was...supposed to BE A SUPRISE, WALUIGI!

Waluigi: (Grumbling) Oh, my bad.

The group couldn't help but chuckle despite the tension, and the atmosphere began to lighten up a bit. They worked in silence for a few minutes, the only sounds being the clinking of dishes and the shuffling of feet.

Yoshi: (Sighs) Friends, fighting, so much...it makes Yoshi sad.

Funky: (Nods) It's all my fault.

Diddy: Nah, Funky, it's on all of us. We all gotta work on being better.

Funky looked at Diddy, feeling a warmth spread through him.

Funky: Well, uhh, I guess me and Diddy gotta head back home now, let's make sure to get somemore of those treats we got last time on the way.

Rosa: Bye you two!

Diddy glanced over at Rosalina after she told them bye, and wanted to give her a quick hug before him and Funky went back home to DK Island.

Diddy: (With a sad smile) Bye Rosalina, see ya'll later!

Rosalina: (Nods) Take care, Diddy.

Funky felt a pang of jealousy watching Diddy and Rosalina's interaction, but he pushed it aside, knowing he had his own issues to sort out.

As they made their way back to DK Island, Funky couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. He was happy that he had made some progress with Daisy, but he was also worried about what would happen next. Would she forgive him? Would she ever be able to look at him the same way again?

Diddy broke the silence.

Diddy: So, Funky, about your whole...'cool' image...

Funky: (Sighs) What about it?

Diddy: Maybe, just maybe, it's time to let it go. Be yourself, you know?

Funky: (Pauses) I don't know if I can, Diddy. It's been a part of me for so long.

Diddy: (Nods) I know it's hard, but I think Daisy might just be the one to help you with that. She's pretty straight forward.

Funky: (Chuckles) Yeah, she sure is.

They arrived at DK Island and made their way into DK House after Funky landed the barrel plane.

Funky: (Sighs) Man, that was intense.

Diddy: (Nods) Yeah, but you did good, Funky. You really tried to talk to Daisy.

Funky: Thanks, Diddy. I just hope she can forgive me eventually.

They stepped into the living room, and Funky couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu as he saw Dixie on the couch again, sleeping.

He felt a lot better this time as he walked back inside, feeling tired however, he let out a giant yawn before walking straight up the stairs to find his room.

Diddy: You're that tired?

Funky: Yes... I've been tired since noon buddy, i'm just done.

Diddy: Ok well, I'll just talk to my sister Dixie or something, have a nice rest, big guy.

Funky nodded, and with heavy steps, he made his way up to his room, feeling the weight of the day's events dragging him down. He walked to his balcony again, this time without changing into some pajamas, and flopped himself onto his hammock as the sun was casting a light yellow hue in the sky above him.

As he laid there, his thoughts raced, replaying every word and gesture from the picnic. He replayed the scenes of him resolving the toxicity between him and Daisy, smiling at the fact that he managed to solve some of the tension between them both. She still didn't sit right with him, but she promised to try and not be as pent up and annoyed at the things he does, even if they are a little bit too out there.

Funky's foot dangled out of the hammock a bit as he blew a strand of his flakey hair from covering his forehead.

Just as he was about to doze off, he heard a knock on his door.

Funky: (Mumbles) Who is it?

Dixie: (From outside the door) It's me, Dixie. Can I come in?

Funky: I'm tired ok, maybe when I wake up...ughhh...

Dixie: (From outside the door) Well, I just wanted to say, you outdid yourself today.

Funky: What, did Diddy tell you abou-

Dixie: (From outside the door) Yes, he did. Just don't make it seem like you're trying to get under her skin the next time you see her, I'm glad you talked to her and even managed to make her smile at you. I don't care if she still doesn't see you as an actual friend, you did well Funky Kong.

Funky: ...

Dixie: Funky?

Funky fell asleep as she was talking to him, and she was behind the door, not able to hear anything as he was sleeping near his balcony outside.

Dixie: (Whispers) Well, guess he's had an intense day, I hope he rests well. I'll go watch something with Diddy...(yawns)

Dixie Kong went back down the stairs and into the living area where Diddy was waiting for her again.

Dixie: (Whispers) He's asleep.

Diddy: Good, he's earned it.

The two of them sat down on the couch, Diddy scrolling through their TV for something to watch.

Diddy: (To Dixie) You know what's weird? That was the first time I've ever seen Funky act like that around Daisy.

Dixie: (Nods) It's a step in the right direction, I guess.

They both sat in silence for a moment, the TV playing some random show that neither of them were really watching.

Diddy yawned loudly while sitting next to his sister, Dixie, who was starting to want to go back to sleep herself.

Dixie: (Yawns) Damn, you tired too?

Diddy: Yeah... a little bit.

The two of them laid back onto the couch, Diddy's head resting on Dixie's shoulder. They watched the TV in a daze, the sounds of the waves outside mixing with the canned laughter from the sitcom. Not before long, Diddy Kong fell asleep on Dixie's arm, she noticed this and she couldn't help but chuckle to herself before shifting him to a more comfortable position. Dixie's eyes began to droop, the warmth of the room and the gentle rocking from Diddy's snoring lulling her into a doze.

Dixie: (Mumbling) I guess we're all tired...

The TV played on, the laugh track echoing through the empty house.

The Sunset peeked through the windows of the DK House, a bright orange tint filled the inside wooden walls of the place. Dixie, Diddy and DK were looking forward to the rest of the day, and tomorrow, but for Funky, however, the events of the day weighed heavily on him, not as much as yesterday though. But he felt a glimmer of hope, he had made some progress with Daisy, and that was something he hadn't had in a long time. He knew he had to keep pushing forward, to be a less cocky, better version of himself, for everyone's sake, not just Daisy's.

UM HELLO ANYONE GONNA HELP ME? LIKE IM DYING-