NEXT DAY...
Funky Kong woke up to the sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore, feeling a bit more rested than the previous night. He climbed out of his hammock and stretched his big, fur filled arms, looking out at the beautiful view of DK Island. The sun was rising, painting the sky with a warm, orange glow. He knew he had a lot of work to do, since it got cut out for him yesterday for a rematch, which barely went any better than the first one.
He made his way downstairs without fixing himself up, the smell of Diddy's burnt toast filling the house.
Funky: (Mumbles to himself) damn...ugh
He fixed his messy hair as it was covering his eyes, which had small bags under them from tiredness.
Dixie looked up at him from the couch, where she was scrolling through her phone.
Dixie: Hey, you're up early.
Funky: Yeah, I couldn't sleep. Got a lot on my mind.
Dixie: You know, about yesterday...
Funky: No, just about...the work I gotta do since a certain someone decided to uh...I don't know, force me out of it.
Dixie rolled her eyes playfully.
Dixie: You know who you're talking about, right?
Funky: (Grumbles) Daisy.
Dixie: Well, you got a second chance today, since you gotta practice for a remix y'all are doing.
Funky: oh yeah...that...I didn't practice...period...
Dixie: What? Funky, you have to be prepared, it's not just about showing off your cool mo-
Funky: It's not about that... It's just...I don't know what part I'm gonna have, and I forgot where my guitar is.
Dixie: Ugh, you and your guitar. You know what, I'll help you find it.
They both headed towards the garage, which was a mess from Funky's previous contraption attempts. Dixie began to sift through the pile of spare parts and tools while Funky looked around aimlessly.
Dixie: (Sighs) Funky, you really need to organize this place.
Funky: (Distracted) Uh-huh.
After a few minutes of searching, Dixie found Funky's large, brown and yellow banana-shaped guitar under a pile of old tires. She handed it to him with a smirk.
Dixie: Here it is, your trusty sidekick.
Funky: (Laughs) Thanks, Dix.
Funky strummed a few chords, the sound echoing through the garage. It was out of tune, but he didn't seem to mind. He was lost in thought, playing a tune that was a mix of nostalgia and hope. Dixie watched him for a moment, noticing the seriousness in his eyes.
Dixie: You know, you don't have to be so tough or cocky all the time, Funky. It's okay to show vulnerability.
Funky: (Pauses) I guess I've just been like that for so long, it's hard to change.
Dixie: I know, but maybe it's time to try. For Daisy especially.
Funky nodded, trying to tune his strings, covering his eyes making sure the strings didnt snap in his face.
Funky: (Sighs) I'll try, Dixie.
The rest of the day went by quickly, with Funky trying his best to balance his practice for the remix and his promise to be more considerate of Daisy's feelings. Dixie had a knowing smile on her face, watching her brother from the side as he worked tirelessly trying to envision what part Mario had planned for him during the practice session for the remix.
The sun had reached its peak and was now descending, casting long shadows across the beach. Funky had been playing his guitar for hours now, lost in his thoughts. Diddy had come by earlier to check on him, but seeing Funky's intense concentration, he decided to leave him to his music. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was the only other noise that could be heard.
After a while, Funky Kong walked back to his garage to set off in his barrel plane for the third time, he noticed a beeping noise for the first time, not knowing what it was.
Funky: Wha- what's that noise?
Funky Kong got anxious as he heard the noise again, panicking as thoughts raced through his head.
He looked at the gauge near the front of his plane, noticing a radar that pointed to E, he was low on gas.
Funky: FUCK!
His shouting got the attention of Diddy and Dixie, who were watching him from a window up in the DK House. They decided to go down and help him.
Diddy: What's wrong, Funky?
Funky: This...THIS THING...it says I'm out of gas!
Dixie: (Nods) Yeah, it looks like it.
Funky: (Panicking) Well, what the heck am I gonna do now?
Dixie: (Picks up a map) There's a gas station just north of here, you can glide down to it.
Funky: (Sighs in relief) Thanks, Dix.
They both gave him a thumbs up and watched him take off into the sky, the sound of his barrel plane's engines growing distant.
The trip to the gas station was surprisingly smooth. Funky managed to glide the plane down without any trouble, landing it gently on the beach. He hopped out and made his way to the gas station, his heart still racing from the near-disaster.
Funky: (Panting) Hey, uh, can I get some gas?
Gas Station Attendant: (Looks up from his magazine) Sure, buddy. What can I get ya?
Funky: (Nods) Fill her up, please.
The Gas Station Attendant nodded and began filling up the barrel plane as Funky tried to calm himself down. He couldn't believe how close he had come to not making it to the remix.
Once the tank was full, Funky handed over a wad of coins to the attendant and took off again, feeling a bit more relaxed. As he approached the Mushroom Kingdom, he saw the stadium in the distance, filled with eager fans.
Funky: (Mumbling to himself) Okay, okay, I can do this.
He landed the barrel plane and made his way to the studio, guitar in hand. He saw Mario, Rosalina, and not to his suprise, Daisy. The rest of the assigned band members didn't show up yet.
Mario: Hey, Funky! Glad you could make it!
Funky: (Nods) Yeah, had a little...detour...ummm...
Daisy looked at him with a mix of annoyance and relief.
Rosalina sat in a chair towards the back of the small dim lit stage, her custom bass guitar in her lap. She was scrolling through her phone.
Rosalina: Hey, Funky! What's the deal? Did you get lost again?
Funky laughed nervously, trying to play off his near-miss.
Funky: Nah, I just had to...uh...make a pit stop.
Daisy raised an eyebrow but said nothing, focusing on herself. Funky took his place next to her, waiting for Mario to hand out his first copies of the sheet music he had printed earlier. They had everyone's names on them, with the title of the song on the top of the pages.
Daisy realized he had a guitar, and got even more annoyed, as she was usually the only guitarist needed in these Mario Kart track remixes and just songs in general.
She decided to space herself from him, and talked to one of her friends, Rosalina, who was still mindlessly scrolling on her phone. She tapped on the tall woman's shoulder, trying to get her attention.
Daisy: (Whispers) Did you see what he's playing ?
Rosalina: (Without looking up) What? The usual?
Daisy: No...he's playing a guitar...like, the instrument I also play.
Rosalina: Isn't that what he always plays?
Daisy: No...it's different, it's like he's...competing with me.
Mario looked over at them, a bit confused by the tension, he decided to shrug it off, walking back to the printer, getting the rest of the copies while waiting for the rest of the band guests.
After a while, Luigi walked through the door to the left, shyly scuttling in with his Alto Saxophone, with Waluigi and Wario laughing and snickering behind him with their instruments.
Mario: Hey, guys, thanks for coming!
Waluigi: (Grinning) No problemo, 'stache man!
Wario: (Smirks) Yeah yeah...now let's get to the good stuff.
Funky watched as the rest of the band members took their places, feeling a bit out of place with his guitar after not attending one of these in a while.
DK shortly followed, walking through the door, catching eyes for a second, looking around, the smell of plastic, wood and scented spray filled his nostrils as he walked in with his Flugel Horn wrapped around his furry muscular arm.
Donkey Kong: Hey...what's the deal with this guitar, Funky? I've never noticed you played one before, I always thought it was Daisy who did all the solo's and stuff whenever I'm playing with you guys.
Funky Kong: Oh, just thought I'd bring her out again and participate in one of these again after taking a break from guitar for like a month. I'm surprised you never noticed I had one whenever we're at home.
Donkey Kong: (Grinning) I guess I'm just not as observant as I thought, or you're really good at hiding your stuff.
Funky chuckled awkwardly, hoping Daisy wouldn't catch wind of the conversation. As they continued to set up, the rest of the band members trickled in, each with their own unique instruments. The air was electric with excitement and anticipation for the remix of N64 Mario Raceway.
Finally, the moment came for the band to begin rehearsing. King boo counted them in with his drumsticks as the band set in, playing the first notes of the remix. Funky's heart pounded in his chest, his hands shaking slightly as he gripped the guitar. He noticed Daisy glancing at him, observing his guitar as he played what was on the page they were both supposed to look at.
Funky stared at Mario, DK and Wario, the three brass players as they sat in front of where him and Daisy were standing, playing their parts with their pages in front of them. Luigi and Waluigi were on the left of where he was, sharing a page as they both played saxophones. Rosalina stood behind them towards the right of Daisy. Rosa wasn't looking at her page that much, as she got the simple bassline and really right nuances memorized in her head.
Every once in a while, Funky caught a hint of Daisy's iconic cinnamon scent as she was standing next to him, it threw him off a bit as they both looked at their page of music they were sharing.
Mid-song, as they were all playing their parts, Funky had a sudden stroke of genius. He looked over at Daisy, and with a cheeky smirk, began improvising random bits here and there on his banana guitar.
Daisy's eyes went wide, she was surprised by his sudden change in playing style.
Daisy: (Whispers) What are you doing?
Funky: (With a grin) Just adding a little flair, baby.
The music swelled around them, their instruments blending together in a harmony that seemed to shake the very ground beneath them. Daisy's annoyance slowly built a bit, but she kept it together.
After a few more bars, it got to Waluigi's sax bit, as his improvised solo went along, Pauline, who was on the electric Piano all the way on the left side of the stage, was quite impressed as she continued playing the background.
Waluigi then tried to make the brass players follow his bursts of notes he played, leading into the looping point of the song again before everyone was signaled to stop playing.
Pauline: Hey, that was pretty good, Waluigi!
Waluigi: Thanks, Pauline! I was just...going with the flow...sort of...hehehehhh
Mario looked over at Funky with a mix of surprise and admiration.
Mario: Funky, that was some amazing improvisation!
Funky: (Grinning) Thanks, Mario! I just felt the rhythm, y'know?
Daisy: (Sighs) Can we stick to the actual music, please?
The rehearsal went on, with Funky occasionally throwing in a few more impromptu solos, much to Daisy's chagrin. She tried to keep her cool, but the more he played, the more she felt her own skills being overshadowed. Despite this, she couldn't deny the excitement building in the room. The music written on everyone's pages were slowly becoming more familiar to all the band members, but out of nowhere, a rouge bee somehow reared its ugly head from the shadowy portion of the stage, flying around everyone as they were trying to play. It somehow anonymously flew in while some of the band members went through the door.
The bee buzzed around, getting closer and closer to Funky and Daisy. The bee was being attracted by something as it flew around them both. Funky knew it wasn't anything on him, since he didn't put on any cologne this time while changing his clothes and getting ready. It was Daisy's turn to look nervous.
Daisy: (Swatting at the bee) What the heck?!
Funky: (Laughs) It's probably after your apple cinnamon-y scent
Daisy: (Pouts) Oh...are you saying I smell bad or something?
The bee grew more aggressive, and Daisy began to panic, flapping her arms around her face as the blurry black dot flew around her view.
Mario: (Shouting) Alright, break time!
The band stopped playing abruptly, and the room was filled with the buzzing of the persistent bee. Funky took the opportunity to check on Daisy, who was now visibly shaking.
Funky: (Laughs) You okay?
Daisy: (Nods, trying to play it off) Yeah, I just...don't like bees, that's all.
Funky took a step closer to Daisy, trying to act cool.
Waluigi: Daisy, it's just a bee.
Daisy: (Nods, her voice a little shaky) I know, I know. It's just a- waaAAAAAAaaahh!
The bee had landed on her nose, and she couldn't help but scream and flail her arms in panic.
Rosalina: Ughh...who let that in here?
Everyone looked around, trying to spot where the bee came from. Pauline glanced backwards, looking at Daisy with her arms taped to her sides, waiting for the bee to leave her nose.
Funky leaned in closer to her to try and get it off of her nose, making her even more uncomfortable.
Funky: It's okay, Daisy, I got it.
But before he could get to it, the bee took flight again, this time it was aiming for Rosalina, who was mostly obligatory to the whole situation and just came here to play.
Rosalina was on her phone again, trying to text Peach, who was still at her castle.
The bee slowly flew near her, quietly buzzing around her exposed pale shoulder. It landed on her, making no sound. Rosalina scratched the shouler the bee was on, making it aggrivated as it had to dodge her hand. It landed back on her, and stung her, falling on to the ground with the stinger still lodged in side her skin.
Rosalina: (Shrieks) OWWWWWW...shit...ssssssss...owwwww...
Her hand flew up to her shoulder, her eyes wide with pain and surprise. The bee had stung her, and was now on the ground, dead, unable to move.
Rosalina felt a rolling sensation on her shoe when she took a step away from her music stand, and realize she stepped on the dead insect.
Mario: (Concerned) Rosalina, are you okay?
Rosalina: (Nods) Yeah, I think so. It just stung me.
Funky and Daisy exchanged a look. Daisy's face was a mix of fear and empathy.
Daisy: (Nods) That's what happens when you mess with nature.
The rest of the band looked around nervously, wondering if there were more insects that were accidentally let in to the studio.
Mario: (Clears throat) Right, let's...uh, let's take a short break.
They all nodded, setting down their instruments and dispersing around the stage, trying to calm themselves down.
Daisy took a few steps away from the group, her eyes searching the ground for any other stray bees. She found a spot by the snack table, where a bowl of fruit was set out.
Funky followed her, his guitar slung over his shoulder.
Funky: (Softly) Daisy, listen, I'm sorry about the stuff I apparently hurt your feelings with earlier this week...with the baseball games...and ummm...shit...how do I say this...
Daisy: (Sighs) Funky, it's fine, just don't be a dick again.
The room was filled with awkward silence, with the occasional cough and whisper between the band members who were trying to figure out what happened.
Funky: (Nods) I'll try not to.
Daisy picked up an apple from the fruit bowl, taking a bite and looking at him with a sideways glance.
Funky: Also...um, is it okay if I tell you something real quick? You might not like it...um...but...
Daisy: (Munching on the apple) What is it, Funky?
Funky took a deep breath, his heart racing.
Funky: I...I might've accidentally put a little...extra...something in your drink before the game. Just a bit of...performance enhancer.
Daisy's eyes widened, and she froze mid-chew.
Daisy: (Whispers) You...what?
Funky: (Nods nervously) Yeah, I just wanted to make sure you'd be...you know, extra energetic. I didn't mean to mess with your head or anything. I just...I wanted us to win.
Daisy's face flushed red, and she threw the apple core across the room, barely missing Waluigi's head.
Daisy: (Shouts) What the hell, Funky? That's not cool!
The room went silent, and all eyes were on Funky and Daisy. Waluigi and Wario exchanged a look, the grins wiped off their faces.
Mario: (Frowns) Funky, what did you do?
Funky: (Hangs his head) I just wanted Daisy to be her usual amazing self on the field.
Luigi: It's okay, my Daisy. We're all here for you.
Daisy: (Tears in her eyes) Why...why did you-
The tension was palpable, and the band's camaraderie felt strained. Funky sighed as he felt a tear welt up in his eye, he stared at the ground, this was the third time he had hurt Daisy, in a row.
Daisy: (Sobbing) How could you do this to me?
Funky: (Mumbling) I just wanted us to win again so I could go back to doing my contraptions and stuff...ya know.
The room grew even quieter, with everyone staring at Funky and Daisy, not knowing how to respond to the sudden revelation.
Daisy's eyes were red, and she was visibly upset.
Daisy: (Whispers) It's not just about winning, that's the issue.
Waluigi: More drama? Aaaaaaawwww Like...dude what the f-
Rosalina walked over to him, dragging Waluigi over to where her position was, sternly whispering into his ear.
Rosalina: (Whispers) That's enough, Waluigi. This isn't the time or place for your jokes.
Waluigi's smile faded, and he nodded, looking down at his feet.
Funky nodded, his eyes downcast. He knew he had crossed the line again.
Funky: (Whispers) I know, Daisy. I just...
Daisy wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, trying to regain her composure.
Daisy:
Daisy took a deep breath, trying to hold back her anger and hurt. She looked at Funky with a mix of disappointment and sadness.
Daisy: (Trembling) Funky, I know you mean well, but you can't just keep doing shit like this. It's not about winning or losing, it's about playing together and having fun.
Funky nodded and slowly pulled her in for a hug, his heart aching with regret.
Funky: (Whispers) I'm sorry, Daisy. I didn't mean to hurt you. I'll make it up to you, I promise.
Daisy didn't hug him back at first, but eventually she leaned into his embrace, her shoulders shaking with sobs.
Luigi: (Concerned) Funky, maybe you should go and sit down. We'll continue the rehearsal without you for now.
Funky: (Nods) Alright, I need to think.
He took a seat at the side of the stage, his mind racing with thoughts of what he could do to fix this. Rosalina walked over to him, her converse high top shoes hitting the shiny floor grew louder as she approached the ape humanoid figure.
Rosalina: Funky, I know you didn't mean it, but you really have to be careful with these things, especially when it comes to sports, you know how she is when it comes to sports and competition.
Funky: (Sighs) I know, I know.
Rosalina handed him a bottle of water, which he took gratefully, unscrewing the cap and taking a long drink.
Rosalina: (Sits beside him) I mean, we play because we love the sport, but we can't keep playing if we're not all on the same page.
Funky: (Nods) I know, I just...I don't know what to do now.
The band continued their break, some of the members going outside to get some fresh air and others just sitting in silence, the music forgotten.
Moments later, Peach arrived into the studio, out of breath from running. She responded to Rosalina's text earlier, before the group started rehearsing anything.
Peach: (Panting) What's going on here?
Rosalina: (Sighs) Funky spilled the beans about the...enhancement he gave to Daisy's drink during the baseball games we played yesterday and the day before.
Peach looked around, not being able to find her best friend and fellow Princess. She could spot everyone else, doing their own things, with Waluigi scared to come out of the corner after Rosalina dragged him.
Peach: (Panicking) Daisy? Where is she?
Rosalina: She was with Funky...over there...eughhhh...ew...gross
Peach: Wait...what? Why are you saying gross for? What did he do to her?
Rosalina: Ugh...he's...hugging her...apparently.
Peach looked at her with a confused expression.
Peach: How is that...gross?
Rosalina rolled her eyes.
Rosalina: They're not...you know, doing anything...it's just...Funky.
Peach: (Nods) I understand.
Making her way over to the snack table, Peach grabbed a banana, peeling it with practiced ease.
Peach: (Calling over) Daisy, are you okay?
Daisy was staring out the windows from the back part of the studio.
Peach: Daisy?
Her voice was soft, almost a whisper, as if she was afraid of shattering the fragile silence that had settled over the room.
Daisy: (Sighs) I'm fine, Peach.
Her voice was strained, but she didn't turn around. Peach walked over to her, the banana forgotten in her hand.
Peach: (Gently) What happened?
Daisy: (Sighs) Funky put something in my drink before the games to make me play better. He didn't mean to hurt me, but...
Her voice trailed off, and she took a deep breath, trying to hold back more tears.
Peach: (Concerned) Are you okay? Did he hurt you?
Daisy: (Shakes her head) No, I'm just...upset.
Peach: (Nods) I can see that. Do you want to talk about it?
They sat together in silence for a moment, the only sound being the distant waves and the occasional murmur from the other band members.
Daisy: (Turns to Peach) It's just...why can't we just have fun without all this competition and drama?
Peach: (Nods) I know what you mean, Daisy. Sometimes it feels like it's all about winning, and we forget why we're doing this in the first place.
Daisy took another bite of her apple, the juice dripping down her chin.
Daisy: (Mumbles) It's just...I want to enjoy playing baseball without feeling like I have to be...perfect.
Peach: (Nods) I understand. Maybe we should talk to the others about it.
The two of them stood up and walked over to the rest of the band, who were all watching them with a mix of curiosity and concern.
Mario: (Clears throat) Alright, everyone, let's get back to rehearsal.
But Daisy didn't move to her spot. Instead, she stood in front of the band, her eyes scanning each member.
Daisy: (Shakily) Guys, I think we need to have a little...talk.
The room fell silent again, and even Waluigi and Wario had the decency to look concerned.
Funky: (Nods) Daisy's right. We need to remember why we're all here.
Waluigi: (Fakes a yawn) Oh, here we go with the sob story.
But before he could say anything else, Wario's eyes narrowed.
Wario: (Standing up) Shut up, we get it. Is this the last rehearsal, I wanna go back home, I'm sick of this bullshit.
Daisy's eyes flashed with anger, but Peach stepped in before she could say anything.
Peach: (Firmly) Wario, this is important. We're a team, and we need to support each other, not just when it's convenient.
Waluigi: (Mumbles) Whatever...
The room remained silent as the two antagonists slumped back into their seats, clearly not happy with the turn of events.
Funky: (Clearing his throat) I think what Daisy's trying to say is...we should all just chill out and have fun. That's what it's all about.
Rosalina nodded in agreement, gently rubbing the spot on her shoulder where the stinger was.
Rosalina: (Nods) He's right. We all need to communicate better and respect each other's boundaries.
The tension in the room eased slightly, and the band members began to murmur among themselves, some nodding in understanding, others still looking unsure.
Waluigi decided to but in, risking another freak out.
Waluigi: Boundaries you say, Rosalina?
The room grew tense again as Waluigi's tone was sarcastic and mocking. Funky clenched his fists, ready to jump in if things escalated.
Peach: (Interrupts) Yes, boundaries. We all need to respect each other's limits and feelings.
Waluigi rolled his eyes.
Waluigi: (Mumbles) What a bunch of pussies.
The room fell silent once again, the air thick with unspoken words. Daisy's grip on her Guitar tightened.
Daisy: (Through gritted teeth) Watch your mouth, Waluigi.
Waluigi: (Smirks) Or what, you gonna hit me with that sad-ass guitar?
Funky: (Standing up) That's enough, Waluigi!
The ape's protective instincts had taken over, and he stepped in between Daisy and the smug mustached man.
Funky: (Firmly) Daisy, let me handle this.
Daisy took a step back, her eyes still on Waluigi.
Daisy: (Trembling) If he says one more thing, I swear...
Funky turned to face the turtle-like creature, his eyes narrowed.
Funky: (Shouts) Waluigi, that's it! You've gone too far!
Waluigi's smirk faded as he realized the seriousness in Funky's tone.
Waluigi: (Stammers) What? I was just messing around.
But Funky wasn't having it.
Funky: I've had enough of your shit myself as one of your homies, Waluigi. You're either going to start treating everyone with a bit more respect, or you're going to find yourself out that door
The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. The only sound was the distant crash of the waves and the occasional chirp of a bird.
Mario: (Puts a hand on Funky's shoulder) Easy, Funky. We need to talk this out.
Funky nodded, still glaring at Waluigi, but he didn't move.
Mario: (Turns to Waluigi) What do you have to say for yourself?
Waluigi: (Shrugs) It's just a bit of fun, Mario. No need to get so serious.
The room remained still, everyone's gaze locked onto Waluigi.
Peach: (Firmly) This isn't fun for everyone, Waluigi. It's hurtful and disrespectful.
Waluigi: Yeah...ok...It wasn't disrespectful when miss pouty pants over here yelled at my comrade Funky Boi.
Daisy's grip tightened on her guitar, and she stepped around Funky, her eyes blazing.
Daisy: (Shouts) You're the one being disrespectful! You guys are always causing trouble and ruining the fun!
The room erupted into chaos, with everyone talking over each other, trying to get their points across.
Peach: (Raises her hand) Everyone, please! Let's just take a moment to calm down.
Slowly, the room grew quieter, everyone taking a deep breath.
Mario: (Nods) Peach is right. Let's all sit down and talk this through.
They all found their seats again, the tension still thick in the air.
Daisy: (Shakily) I just want to play baseball without the drama. That's all.
Peach: (Nods) And we should all support each other, regardless of who wins or loses.
Mario: (Puts his hand in the middle) Alright, everyone...truce...white flags go up.
One by one, the band members put their hands toward the middle, except for Waluigi.
Waluigi: (Crosses arms) Like, whatever.
Wario: (Whispers to Waluigi) Dude, seriously, let's just agree to disagree for now.
Waluigi: (Sighs and puts his hand in) Fine, fine.
Mario: Alright, everyone, let's just agree to be cool to each other from now on, okay?
The group nodded in agreement, the tension in the air slowly dissipating. They all took a deep breath and went back to their instruments, the music filling the room once again.
As they played, Funky couldn't help but feel a weight lifted from his shoulders. He glanced down at Daisy, who was fully focused with a neutral expression on her face looking at the page of music they both shared. Peach wasn't in the actual remix herself as she didn't have an assigned role in playing, but luckily when she barged into the building, she brought her violin out of instinct, and snuck in some of her grandiose, since the song shared three Mario Kart tracks, Mario Raceway, Luigi's Raceway, and Royal Raceway, which had Peach's castle in it and was solely based around her.
Pauline's hands flew over the keyboard, hitting the notes with precision, and Funky gave smug grins whenever he played his two chords every bar.
Waluigi was sloppily playing along this time, as he looked over at Luigi, who wasn't paying attention to him, but focusing on the page both of them shared.
Suddenly, midway through the song, right before Waluigi's solo again, there was a knock from outside the studio door.
Everyone stopped playing for a second as Peach, Luigi, Rosalina and Pauline all raced towards the door, nearly knocking each other over.
They opened the door to see Peachette, out of breath, with a large Saxophone case in her hand, struggling to hold it with her two weak arms.
Peachette: Am... am I late?
Her voice was soft, almost apologetic, and the band members couldn't help but chuckle at her adorable entrance.
Mario: (Grins) Uhhh...maybe...
Peachette walked inside, falling on her face as she sat her case down.
Peach: (Rushes over) Are you okay?
Peachette: (Nods) Yeah, I'm fine. I just...I had to run here from the castle...
They all looked at her, surprised.
Rosalina helped her up and put her hand down on her shoulder, lifting up the heavy Saxophone case for her.
Rosalina: Damn, what's in here...?
Peachette: (Blushes) Oh, it's just my sax...which is really big...it's a baritone...um...heheh
Rosalina recollected past remixes that involved a baritone saxophone in them.
Rosalina: Oh wait, y- you play this? This big heavy thing?
Peachette nodded, a bit embarrassed by the attention.
Peachette: Yeah, I thought you would know by how many remixes i've done with you guys...heh...
Rosalina looked down at her, rubbing her blonde hair.
Rosalina: Oh, I thought someone else played this and you played the little sax, ya know, like the one Luigi always carries around...
The group chuckled, breaking the remaining tension in the air. Peachette looked around, her cheeks flushed pink.
Mario: (With a warm smile) It's okay, Peachette. You're not late. We were just talking about...things.
Peachette's eyes widened as she took in the scene before her, the band's instruments scattered around the room, the music sheets still held in their hands.
Peachette: (Nervously) Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrup-
Waluigi: You are interrupting...like...you're so late it's not even funny.
The room fell silent again, and Peachette took a step back.
Peach: (Standing up) That's enough, Waluigi!
Waluigi rolled his eyes but didn't say anything more, knowing he had pushed it too far.
Peachette: (Sadly) I'll just...leave it here.
The baritone saxophone case was set down gently next to the snack table, and Peachette began to turn away.
Funky: (Calls out) Peachette, wait!
Surprised by Funky's sudden outburst, she stopped and looked back at him.
Funky: (Walks over) You're not interrupting anything. We're all here to make music together, right?
Peachette nodded hesitantly, still feeling the sting of Waluigi's words.
Funky: (Picks up the baritone saxophone case) Let me help you with this.
He offered her a warm smile, and together they made their way to the stage, the weight of the case seemingly lighter with his support.
Mario: (Claps his hands) Alright, everyone! Let's get back to it. This is our last rehearsal before the big day, and we're going to nail it!
The band members nodded, with renewed energy and determination in their eyes.
Peachette took her place beside Daisy, the baritone sax in her arms looking almost comically large compared to her petite frame.
Waluigi: (Mumbles) What a joke.
Daisy shot him a glare, but said nothing.
As they started the song again, Peachette's eyes remained glued to her music sheet, her cheeks still flushed. Waluigi took his spot across from her, his own saxophone gleaming under the studio lights.
Throughout the rehearsal, Waluigi couldn't help but throw taunts her way, his voice cutting through the music like nails on a chalkboard.
Waluigi: (Sarcastically) Oh, wow, you can actually play notes.
Peachette's playing faltered, but she pushed through, her eyes watering slightly.
Daisy: (Through gritted teeth) Waluigi, leave her alone.
But he just smirked, continuing to play his instrument with an over-exaggerated flair.
The tension grew thicker as the song went on, until finally, Peachette's playing was flawless, and she looked up at Waluigi with a challenge in her eyes.
When it was Waluigi's solo coming up, he made sure to try and play as loud and low as possible, to rub it in her face, dancing around where his position was, leaning into her, and trying to improvise a line from Peach Garden's into his playing.
Peachette's eyes watered as she watched him, her breathing getting heavier. She couldn't take it anymore, and she was about to put down her baritone saxophone, but something inside her told her to keep playing.
Mid-song, Funky had an idea. He looked over at Peachette, who was doing her best to ignore Waluigi's antics, and nodded at her.
Funky: (Whispers) You got this, Peachette.
Peachette nodded, a newfound determination lighting up her eyes.
The music grew to a crescendo, and Waluigi took his solo, playing as obnoxiously as ever. But this time, Peachette didn't let it phase her.
Waluigi once again decided to go with his original playing style since the first time they all rehearsed this, after his solo, he decides to make the other saxophonists, Luigi, Peachette, and the brass players follow his random spurts of melodic phrasing, through the last 4 bars, looping back to the intro before everyone concluded their playing.
Funky watched Peachette as she took a deep breath, taking her big sax out of her mouth looking over at Waluigi, who was giggling and cackling to himself over all the sudden noise and chatting in the background as everyone got their stuff together to head out.
Daisy: I can't believe he's doing this again.
Funky Kong looked down at Daisy as she was standing next to him, he put her hand out to her, hoping she would notice it.
Funky: (Softly) Daisy, let's go get some ice cream. I know you like the place with the big sprinkles.
Daisy stared at Funky's hand for a moment, unsure of what to do. She knew he was trying to make amends, but she couldn't help feeling a bit weirded out by his sudden affection.
Daisy: (Pulls away) I don't know, Funky. I need some time.
Funky sighed, withdrawing his hand.
Meanwhile, Waluigi sauntered over to Wario, who was busy packing up his trombone.
Waluigi: (Sneers) Did you see Peachette trying to keep up with us? So embarrassing.
Wario: (Shrugs) She's doing her best, man.
Waluigi: (Laughs) Best? More like worst!
Mario and Donkey Kong were putting away their instruments too, and heard the exchange. They glanced at each other, their expressions serious.
Mario: (Muttering) Ignore him, DK. He's not worth it.
Donkey Kong: (Nods) Let's go.
They turned away from Waluigi, focusing on their task.
Peachette's eyes grew wide as she heard Waluigi's words, and she felt a lump form in her throat. She had been feeling more and more like she didn't belong in this group, and his teasing didn't help.
Peachette: (Trembling) I...I'll just go practice more...
Daisy: (Turns to Peachette) No, you're doing great! Don't let him get to you.
But Peachette had already picked up her sax case and was heading for the door.
Daisy: (Calls out) Peachette, wait!
But it was too late. The door slammed shut behind her, leaving the rest of the band in an awkward silence.
Daisy: Peachet- oh my Lord...WALUIGI!
Rosalina: I told him to stop and he keeeeeps doing it...(Sighs)
Rosalina packed her bass guitar in her bag, along with her now half full drink. She walked, heading for the door, with Daisy following behind her, with her yellow and black guitar still dangling around her neck.
Rosalina: (Turns around) Daisy, come on. Let's go talk to her.
Daisy: (Nods) Yeah, she's probably just outside.
They found Peachette sitting on the bench, her shoulders slumped as she stared at the ground, she saw tiny bugs blurring right by her as she tried to sit her heavy saxophone case up beside her.
Daisy: Hey Peachette, we saw what happened in there. Are you okay?
Peachette: Yea...It's just, I kinda want a minute to myself I- ...(sighs)
Rosalina bent down to pick her up from the bench, her eyes filled with empathy.
Rosalina: (Gently) Hey, it's okay. We all have off days. And Waluigi...he's just...Waluigi.
Peachette looked up at them with a small smile.
Peachette: (Sniffs) Thanks, guys.
Rosalina picked up Peachette's case for her while her other arm around her shoulder. Peach was seen leaving the building after trying to get through to Waluigi, which still didn't listen.
Daisy: (Nods) You're so much better than he'll ever be.
They started walking down the beach path, the setting sun casting a warm glow on the sand.
Peachette: (Quietly) I just...I just don't know if I can keep doing this.
Her voice was filled with doubt, and Daisy and Rosalina shared a concerned look.
Daisy: (Firmly) Of course, you can. We're all here for you.
Peachette: (Shakes her head) But what if I'm not good enough?
Rosalina: (Squeezes her shoulder) You are. And if Waluigi can't see that, then screw him.
Daisy nodded in agreement, her grip on Peachette's hand tightening.
Daisy: We're going to show him up at the race tomorrow. And when you play in the band, it's going to be epic.
Peachette's smile grew a bit wider at the thought.
Peachette: (With a hint of excitement) Really?
Rosalina: (Nods) Trust me, you're going to be amazing.
They walked in silence for a moment, the sound of the waves providing a calming backdrop to their conversation.
Daisy: (Teasingly) Besides, who doesn't love a good underdog story?
Peachette giggled, feeling a bit better.
Peachette: (Looks up) Thanks, guys. I don't know what I'd do without you.
Daisy and Rosalina both leaned in for a group hug.
Daisy: (With a smile) That's what friends are for, right?
The three of them stood there for a moment, the friendship between them stronger than ever.
Rosalina: (Pulls away) Come on, let's go get that ice cream. Maybe a little sugar will help us forget about today.
Daisy: (Nods) And we can all practice together for the actual recording of the remix!
Peachette's eyes lit up at the mention of more music practice without all the drama.
Peachette: (Excitedly) Yes!
They laughed, the tension from the rehearsal fading away as they made their way to the ice cream parlor. Inside, the bell above the door jingled as they entered, the cool air a welcome relief from the evening heat. The place was packed with Toads and other Mushroom Kingdom residents, all chattering and laughing as they enjoyed their treats.
Daisy: (Looks around) Wow, this place is popular.
The trio squeezed into a booth, the smell of waffle cones and chocolate sauce making their stomachs rumble.
Peachette: (To the waiter) I'll have the strawberry swirl, please.
The waiter nodded and scribbled down the order.
Rosalina: (With a grin) And for the underdog, a double scoop of mint chocolate chip.
Peachette: (Blushes) Thanks, Rosalina.
As they waited for their ice cream, Daisy pulled out a map of the raceway.
Waluigi was still tirelessly laughing and grinning back at the studio with Wario, Luigi was making his way out of the building with Mario as they were heading back to Peach's castle.
Funky Kong was following behind the two brothers with his guitar still around his neck, DK right behind him, as The two Kongs were headed back to DK Island.
Mario: (With a sigh) Luigi, you wanna meet up with the girls and have some ice cream? Daisy's there.
Luigi's cheeks flushed red once his brother brought up Daisy.
Luigi: (Nods) Sure, I could use a break from the saxophone...
Funky Kong overheard Mario talking about ice cream and thought about following them, but he realized that Mario said Daisy was there, and the rest of the girls were there too.
Funky: Did they just say ice cream?
DK: Um, I think so, why? Don't you have that useless contraption to build back at home anyway?
Funky: Uselsss huh? Yea alright. I'll have you know, all the shit i've built for the rest of y'all back at DK Island has been very useful for King K invasions, so you callin 'em useless is baffling to me.
DK shrugged his shoulders after throwing such an opinion about his fellow muscular Primate's contraptions.
Funky Kong decided to make up his mind during the awkward silence of the two walking far behind Mario and Luigi, he decided ice cream was more important than his wacky, yet useful inventions.
Funky sped up his walking, his belongings in his hand, and his banana guitar still exposed. He caught up to Luigi and Mario, leaving DK behind.
Funky: (Panting) Hey, I heard the word 'ice cream'. Did you guys say something about ice cream?
Mario turned around, his smile widening.
Mario: (Nods) Yeah, we're all meeting at the parlor down the beach. Want to come?
Funky's eyes lit up, and without another word, he started jogging ahead of them.
Funky: (With excitement) Hell yeah, I love ice cream! YOOO DKKK! GET UP HERE!
Donkey Kong, who was already halfway back to their raft, heard Funky's shout and looked over his shoulder. With a sigh, he turned around and began to catch up, his horn case firm in his hand.
Funky hummed his guitar part in his hand and tried building muscle memory for it on his guitar as it swayed left and right as he was walking.
As they approached the ice cream parlor, the sounds of laughter and chatter grew louder. When they entered, they saw Peachette, Daisy, and Rosalina huddled over a table covered in ice cream sundae menus.
Peachette looked behind her and saw Funky Kong and DK laughing and cackling behind the two brothers, Mario and Luigi. The four walked past the ladies, and up to the actual parlor stand where the line wrapped around itself.
Funky: (Still humming) What flavors do you guys have?
The toad behind the counter looked at the four of them with a bit of annoyance, but kept his smile professional.
Toad: (Nods) We have strawberry, vanilla, mint chocolate chip, cookie dough, rocky road, and our special today, a banana split.
Funky: (Pauses his humming) A banana split? That's fate!
The others chuckled, and Funky ordered four banana splits, one for each of them. As they waited for their orders, Funky decided to ask DK a question about some stuff that Diddy, fron DK Island, called him about.
Funky: So DK, Diddy called me today and said something about a new contraption he made to keep the banana hoard safe from any future invasions. Did you hear anything about that?
Donkey Kong: (Nods) Oh yeah, that. It's just a bunch of bananas and a swing...I don't know what he's expecting to do with that.
Mario and Luigi exchanged knowing glances, both aware of Diddy's knack for overzealousness.
Funky: (Laughs) That does sound like him. I'll have to check it out when we get back.
He saw all three girls eating their ice cream outside the window, his stomach started to hurt from the sweetness he knew was about to come.
Mario: (Picks up his cone) You guys ready for the recording tomorrow?
Funky: (Nods eagerly) My part isn't complete cancer to try and play so...um, yeah...I guess.
Luigi: M- Mine isn't either, Waluigi is probably gonna f- fuck it up tho.
Mario sighs, shaking his head at the two.
Mario: You guys gotta have a little more faith. We can do this.
Donkey Kong: (Nods in agreement) Besides, if it gets too hectic, we can always improvise.
Their banana splits are handed over, and the four of them make their way to the outside seating area, where they spot Peachette, Daisy, and Rosalina already enjoying their ice cream.
Peachette: (Looks up and sees Funky) Hey, you guys made it!
Funky: (Grinning) Of course, we wouldn't miss out on the sweet stuff for anything!
They sit down at the table next to the girls, with DK and Funky Kong still in their own conversation as they followed Mario and Luigi to sit down.
Funky: I keep telling you, the contraptions I build are supposed to BE practical, not LOOK practical.
DK: Ok...whateeever you say...
The group settled into the booth, their laughter and conversation mingling with the sweet scent of ice cream and the distant sound of waves crashing on the shore. As they dug into their banana splits, Funky couldn't help but steal glances at Daisy, who was sharing a chocolate-covered strawberry with Peachette. The sight of her smiling, surrounded by their friends, made his heart swell with hope for a future without the bitterness of the past.
Rosalina looked behind her shoulder, her laughter turned into a dead expression as she held her ice cream in her hand with one hand, her other hand around the smaller Peachette.
Funky Kong ignored her stare and continued chatting with DK.
Funky: (Mouth full) My is at the least,...interesting, when it comes to looks.
Donkey Kong: (Rolls his eyes) That's one way to put it.
The two Kongs laughed hysterically, catching the attention of Daisy, who saw Funky banging his fist on the the table he was sitting at, struggling to keep himself together from laughing so hard.
Funky: Maaan, stop. I've never seen anything you make work, Donkey dude. My engineering and perseverance outshine you any day, haha
DK: Um...that still doesn't change the fact that they look like complete shit though...but...they work...I guess...
Funky Kong couldn't contain himself anymore once DK made the obviously joke-filled and sarcastic sounding comment. He took his shades off and put his hand over his forehead as he cackled, Mario and Luigi looked at each other, confused as they sat across from the two primates.
Mario: uhhh...you wanna sit at the girls table, Luigi? I don't know what they're on about.
Luigi: (Nods nervously) S-sure, I can sit over there.
As the two brothers approached, the conversation at the girls' table turned serious.
Daisy: (To Peachette) Trust me, you're not gonna mess up, you don't have any technical lines to play anyway, no solo's no leads, nothing! Just try and focus on you, no matter what Waluigi tries to do or say to you before or during the recording of the song, ok?
She nudged Peachette's shoulder and gave her a smirk.
Daisy: Besides, he's always full of shit anyway.
Peachette: (Giggles) Daisy...
They all laughed, and Funky Kong looked over with a confused expression before shrugging it off and continuing to devour his banana split.
Rosalina: (Pauses) Guys, we need to talk about Waluigi.
The laughter died down, and everyone turned to her.
Daisy: What about him?
Rosalina: (Sighs) He's ruining the band's vibe. We can't have him acting like that during the performance.
Peachette nodded solemnly, her eyes on her half-eaten ice cream.
Peachette: (Whispers) I know.
Luigi: (Swallows his mouthful) What do we do then?
Mario: (Pauses) Maybe we should talk to him, tell him to cool it?
Luigi: (Nods) Or...we could just ignore him?
DK: Uhhh, You wanna switch tables, they're all over there anyway.
Funky Kong didn't feel comfortable switching to where the girls, and the two plumber brothers were sitting, as Daisy was still not on the same page with him, but he sighed and decided to follow his primate friend over to the table, them both taking their seats inbetween Rosalina and Luigi.
Peachette looked up at Funky, her eyes sparkling.
Peachette: (Cheerfully) Funky, what flavor did you get?
Funky Kong ignored any questions or anything from the ladies and just continued chatting with DK who was right next to him.
Funky: (Ignoring Peachette) So, what's the plan for tomorrow? We need to get back to the island early.
Donkey Kong: (Shrugs) Just the usual, early morning flight with my plane.
The conversation between the two Kongs went on, with the others enjoying their ice cream.
Peachette: Uhh, Funky? I asked you a question...
Funky Kong ignored her again and was still chatting with DK, as he continued trying to avoid any drama with Daisy again.
Funky: Like you say that as if I don't know that, DK. Dixie is always just trying to be all educated and smart when it comes to how my way of life and personality is.
Peachette felt a twinge of annoyance at Funky's dismissal, but decided to focus on her ice cream instead.
Daisy felt disrespected herself by Funky's rudeness, she stood over the table and shouted at him with a sassy tone.
Daisy: Uhh, hello? Peachette just asked you something and you're really going to ignore her?
Funky's grin got wider as he left a few laughs expulse from his mouth while still Talking to Donkey Kong.
Funky: (To Daisy) Oh, my apologies, I didn't hear her. What did she say?
Daisy: (Sarcastically) She asked about your flavor, but apparently, the only flavor you care about is the sound of your own voice.
Peachette's eyes widened, and she looked back down at her ice cream, not sure how to handle the tension.
Funky: Ok...now your just...nevermind, uh, it's a Banana...(chuckles) split...ummm...oh wow...uh...damn... I really- ...wow
Funky looked around trying not to laugh, as he thought Daisy would assume he was laughing at her for some odd reason, goosebumps formed underneath his fur as he adjusted his tank top, scratching his hair.
Funky: (Nods) Yeah, it's a banana split alright. Thanks for asking, Peachette.
Peachette: (Nods) It's no big deal...
But it was clear that she felt a bit left out, as Funky had ignored her question twice now.
Daisy: (Sighs) Whatever, let's just focus on the music, shall we?
Rosalina: (Nods) Right. So, I wanna try and make this little break before the melody resumes, like, this part right here-
She pointed to the part she was talking about as she laid out her bass guitar sheet music on the table.
Rosalina: I want it to flow better, cause the way Mario wrote this has me going from low all the way up the neck, then I have to cross over and finger three strings in like a millisecond.
Mario: Huh Rosalina? I thought my name was called.
Funky: (Still chuckling) Nah, she's just being specific, bro.
Rosalina: (Ignoring Funky) So, what do you guys think? Can we smooth it out?
Mario: (Nods) Sure, let's give it a shot.
They all leaned in, their heads close together as they studied the music sheet, their voices a mix of suggestions and laughter.
Daisy: (Looks at Peachette) You okay, Peachette?
Peachette: (Nods) Yeah, just...thinking about tomorrow.
Daisy gave her a comforting smile and squeezed her hand under the table.
Daisy: We've got this. We're a team, remember?
Funky Kong out of nowhere started bouncing up and down in his chair, dancing with DK as they were listening to a purposefully terrible rap instrumental. Peachette noticed this and got super unconfortable, watching the two act like this was normal behavior.
Peachette: (Pulls on Daisy's sleeve) Can we...go now?
Daisy: (Looks over at Funky and DK) Uh, sure. If you're ready...just finish the last bit of your ice cream first...ugh...
Funky Kong looked over at Daisy for a split second, grinning with determined eyebrows as he kept dancing in his chair with DK next to him, both of them tried to do viral dances they saw online, improvising. Funky Kong ended up somehow doing a dance similar to something Daisy would do, with DK giggling to him while they both continued bobbing their heads listening to it in their earbuds.
Daisy: (Rolls her eyes) You guys are so... (Pauses) ...childish.
Funky: (Stops and looks at Daisy) Girl, What's that supposed to mean?
Daisy: (Sigh) Nothing
Both Donkey Kong and Funky Kong restarted the trash beat, making sure to synchronize their entertaining yet corny and ghetto dances they were doing.
Funky Kong was throwing up random signs as he bobbed up and down in his chair once more with DK, which now caught the attention of Mario and Luigi.
Daisy just looked at them with pure disgust as Funky Kong and Donkey Kong were bobbing their heads, their laughs echoing through the ice cream parlor.
Mario: (Whispers to Daisy) They're just trying to lighten the mood, you know?
Daisy: uhh...yea...I just...Funky's just proving my point I made two days ago.
Mario nodded, understanding Daisy's frustration, but decided not to push the issue.
Mario: (Picks up his cone) Let's just enjoy our ice cream and talk strategy, yeah?
Daisy: (Nods) Good plan.
The five of them went over their parts for the song, occasionally pausing to take a bite of their desserts. Despite the tension, there was a palpable excitement in the air as they discussed rhythms and harmonies.
Peachette: (Looks up at Daisy) I'm a bit nervous about tomorrow still, and it's kind of dark out right now.
Daisy: (Nods) That's a good idea. Let's all stay at the castle tonight. We can practice together and get some rest before the big day.
Rosalina: (Looks around the table) Sounds like a plan to me.
Mario: (Picks up his cone) I'll call Peach and tell her to expect us.
Peachette: (Excitedly) Can we use the grand ballroom for practice?
Daisy: (Rolls her eyes) Sure, why not?
Mario: (Picks up his phone) I'll text her right now.
As the group made their way out of the ice cream parlor, Funky Kong followed behind them with DK, the both of them still doing their impromptu dancing to the trash beat they were both listening to.
Daisy looked behind her shoulder to make sure everyone was keeping up with her as she walked along a dirt path, she could see the lit-up castle in the distance clashing with the dark and desaturated purple atmosphere.
She noticed Funky Kong way behind everyone she offered to go with her to the castle, and she stomped all the way back to where he was.
Daisy: Uh, I didn't say YOU could come with us, FUNKY!
Funky Kong stopped mid-step, his dance coming to a halt, looking at Daisy with a surprised expression.
Funky: What? Did I do something wrong?
Daisy: (Sighs) No, it's just that...you know what, nevermind. Just...go somewhere else, DK can come, but not you.
Funky: Wha- that's not in any way fair. Hmph...
Funky Kong looked at DK who was standing next to him, they both grinned at each other, turned on the trash beat again and strutted all the way to the castle, passing everyone.
Daisy: HEY! WHAT THE F-? ughhhh...
ONCE EVERYONE REACHED THE CASTLE...
The grandiose doors of the castle swung open, revealing the warm glow of the grand ballroom. The sound of their laughter and chatter bounced off the high ceilings as they made their way in. The room was already set up with their instruments and music sheets scattered across the floor.
Mario: (Looks around) Peach, did you do this?
Peach: (Pops out from behind a curtain) Surprise! I figured we could all use a proper place to practice!
The group exchanged smiles and thanked Peach for her thoughtfulness. They quickly settled in, tuning their instruments and preparing for a night of rehearsals.
Daisy: (To Peachette) You know, I think you're going to do great tomorrow. Just remember, it's not about being perfect, it's about having fun and playing from the heart.
Peachette: (Nods) Thanks, Daisy. I'm just worried about Waluigi and his tricks.
Daisy gave her a comforting pat on the back, and the two of them began to go over Peachette's saxophone parts together. Meanwhile, Rosalina was tuning her bass, her eyes focused and determined.
Mario: (Clears his throat) Alright everyone, let's get serious. We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow, and we need to be ready.
The room grew quieter, and they all nodded in agreement. They all took their positions, getting their instruments set up to play their parts one by one going from left to right.
Mario: Alright, i'll go first, DK's after me, Then Lugi, Then Peachette, Daisy, Funky, then last, Rosalina. Got it?
Daisy sighed and huffed in annoyance as she stood next to Funky, his fur making her cough as she inhaled, stumbling backwards. Funky Kong looked over, patting her back to try and make the coughing go away.
Funky: You okay?
Daisy: (Pulls away) your...fur (coughs)
Funky: Oh, sorry...
The group began to play through their parts, starting with Mario's trumpet part which was shared by Wario and DK, but since Wario wasn't with them, it was just him and DK who shared parts at this very moment.
Once DK and Mario finished their loop of their parts for the song, Luigi and Peachette looked at their page and went through theirs with their saxophones.
Luigi: (Nods to Peachette) You ready for this?
Peachette: (Nods) Let's do it!
They both played in harmony, their notes blending beautifully together. Daisy couldn't help but smile at the sound of their friendship and unity.
Once those two were done, It was Funky Kong and Daisy's turns, since they both played guitars. Funky did a little bobbing motion in his position right by Daisy, dancing to her sleek background funk guitar playing as she used her WAH Pedal to control her guitar's sound.
After the both of them were done, it was finally Rosalina's turn, the last person. She played her bassline and improvised with a little slap bass technique during one of the breaks in the song.
Peach clapped for her from across the ballroom as she went upstairs to take a nightly shower, as she noticed her scent was a little funky and smelled of outside from walking to the studio earlier.
Everyone clapped for each other, settng their stuff back in their cases. The reverb of Peach's shoes as she walked up the stairs in the distance settling in as the clapping died down.
Mario: Alright, um, I guess we go upstairs now, Peach apparently told us to go to one of the open guest rooms once we got here.
The group nodded and started making their way to the grand staircase that led to the upper levels of the castle. Funky Kong, feeling a little too joyful for it being pitch black outside, decided to have a little fun once everyone got to the room. The room was filled with sleeping bags and other items in it, as well as a giant tent shell cover over everything that they had to crawl into.
Funky Kong: Uh...what are we supposed to do in here...
Mario: She told me earlier today before me, Daisy and Rosalina made it to the studio, ya know, before you and DK and everyone else go there.
Funky: Ummm, sure...yea...
Mario: She said, crawl into the giant tent structure with all your belongings, and wait.
Funky shrugged his shoulders as he looked over at DK, who was just as confused. Peachette jumped up and Down holding Daisy's hand as she wanted to share a sleeping bag with her, which Daisy seemed to have agreed to.
Donkey Kong: (To Funky) Guess we're bunking together, eh?
Funky Kong: (Shrugs) I guess so, Donkey.
Mario and Luigi claimed their own sleeping bags, and Daisy and Peachette set theirs up near the tent's opening, their laughter echoing through the grand ballroom. Rosalina was the last to enter, her bass slung over her shoulder, and her eyes scanning the room for the perfect spot.
Rosalina: (Chooses a spot) I'll take this one, by the windows. It's got a nice view of the stars.
Funky couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy watching Daisy with Peachette, their bond seemingly stronger than ever. He tried to shake it off, focusing on setting his stuff down once everyone crawled into the tent-like structure.
Mario: (Looking around) Okay, let's not stay up too late once Peach gets back from the bathroom. We've got a big day tomorrow.
They all nodded in agreement, and the room grew quieter as they began to unpack and prepare for bed. Funky Kong so happened to be standing by Daisy again as Mario stood in front of and counted everyone in a line against the tent wall. He decided to have a little fun as he looked down to the side of him to see Daisy with her hands behind her back while bobbing back and forth against the wall.
Funky Kong: (Sneakily) Daisy, don't move...
He leaned down and began to tickle her sides, causing her to squirm and giggle.
Daisy: (Startled) What are you doing?!
Funky Kong chuckled and continued his tickling assault, enjoying her reaction.
Daisy: (Giggling) Funky, stop it!
Funky: (Teasingly) Make me!
Her laughter grew louder as she struggled to keep her balance, her guitar strap slipping from her grasp. The instrument fell to the floor with a painful-sounding thud, and her laughter immediately cut off as she gasped in horror.
Daisy covered her mouth with her hand, kneeling down as everyone looked her direction.
Mario: oooohh...that can't be good...
Daisy: My...
Her voice trailed off as she picked up the guitar, inspecting it for any damage. The tension in the room was palpable as everyone held their breath, waiting for her reaction.
Funky: Daisy, I'm sorry, I didn't mean-
Funky cut himself off as Daisy began to whimper, inspecting her guitar for any damage, luckily, it wasn't broken.
Daisy: It's...it's okay. It's just a...a small...
Her voice cracked as she held back tears, and Funky felt his heart sink.
Funky Kong: oh shit...uhhh...
Luigi: Funky...
Rosalina gave Funky a disappointed look from where she was standing and sighed, crossing her arms.
Rosalina: You really need to learn when to quit it with the jokes.
Funky Kong looked down at the floor, his ears drooping slightly in embarrassment.
Funky: (Mumbles) I'm sorry...
Peachette rushed over to Daisy's side, her eyes wide with concern.
Peachette: Are you okay? Did you hurt yourself?
Daisy: (Shakes her head) No, I'm... I'm just fine. It's just...ughhh...Funky...why would you DO THAT!?
Funky: Oh god...ohh god...um...
Funky looked at the ground, his ears drooping even further, realizing that his attempt at light-hearted fun had gone horribly wrong.
Daisy: (Standing up with the guitar in her hands) So this is how you make up to me huh big guy? YOU ALMOST MAKING ME BREAK MY INSTRUMENT?
Funky: Daisy, I'm...I'm really sorry. I didn't mean it like that.
Her voice was sharp, and her eyes were wet with unshed tears. Funky could see the hurt in her eyes, and it pained him.
Daisy: (Sighs) Just...just...oh my god...I can't-
Peachette: It's okay, Daisy. Let's just go to sleep. It's been a long day.
With a nod, Daisy handed her guitar to Peachette, who placed it gently on a chair next to the tent. The group crawled into the sleeping bags, the tension still lingering in the air. Funky lay there, staring at the fabric ceiling of the tent, feeling like a complete idiot. He had wanted to make Daisy laugh, to bring joy to the group, but instead, he had upset her.
Peach was done with her shower, and decided to go to the room where the giant tent was to check if everyone followed her instructions. She opened the door and saw the group sitting around, all in their sleeping bags. Funky's ears shot straight up when he heard the door creek open, turning his head to see Peach with a towel around her hair and a bathrobe on her body.
Peach: (Looks around) Alright everyone, I see you found the sleeping bags. Goodnight!
The group responded with various goodnights, but Funky couldn't help but feel a little awkward after the earlier incident with Daisy.
Funky: (To Peach) Hey, can I talk to you for a second?
Peach: Sure, what's up?
They both crawled out of the tent, leaving the others behind.
Funky: I'm really sorry about what happened earlier. I didn't mean to scare Daisy like that, and I definitely didn't mean to mess with her guitar.
Peach: (Sigh) What did you do this time?
Funky: I just wanted to make everyone laugh, but...
Peach: (Nods) I know you did, but sometimes you have to think about other people's feelings, Funky. Daisy loves that guitar more than anything, and you know how much music means to all of us.
Funky's shoulders slumped as he nodded solemnly, taking in Peach's words.
Funky: I'll...ugh...
DK: let's just sleep, also this bag is too big for me and Funky, we can't fit. Can we just not use those?
Peach: I never said you couldn't sleep on the floor.
Donkey Kong: (Picks up the sleeping bag) Okay, okay, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause trouble.
Funky Kong watched as Donkey Kong begrudgingly took his sleeping bag back and set it down on the floor. He felt a mix of annoyance at his friend's insensitivity and guilt for his own part in the evening's tension.
Mario: (Clears his throat) Well, let's all get some rest. We need to be in top form tomorrow.
The group nodded, and the sound of zippers being pulled and sleeping bags being unfurled filled the air. Funky found himself lying awake for a while, unable to shake the feeling of disappointment and regret. He had wanted to be a better friend to Daisy, but he hadn't managed it over a 3 day period. He could hear the faint sound of Daisy's sniffles from across the tent, and it made his heart ache.
He finally decided to not let this go undone as he left the area he was laying at next to DK, and sneakily made his way over to her as she was half asleep with Luigi in her arms, Peachette on the other side of her however, was completely passed out.
Funky Kong gently picked her up, he felt her loud snoring as he tilted his head away from her. He saw DK staring at him, trying not to laugh outloud and wake everyone up as Funky set her down gently, away from Luigi and Peachette.
As Funky got in a comfortable position, Daisy unwillignly leaned on his shoulder while in her sleep, her warmth and soft breaths made him feel even worse for his actions. He gently wrapped his arm around her, feeling her body tense up before she sighed and relaxed into his embrace.
Funky: (Whispers) I'm really sorry Daisy. I didn't mean to make you sad tonight... I'll make it up to you, I promise.
Her breathing evened out, and Funky watched her sleep for a few moments before finally closing his eyes. As the night passed, the group's breathing grew synchronized, and their thoughts drifted to the recording session the next day.
The morning sun peeked through the windows, casting a warm glow over the sleeping band members. The grand ballroom looked like a sea of colorful sleeping bags and snoring noises. Funky Kong stirred awake, his arm still around Daisy, feeling a mix of guilt and something else. He carefully extracted himself from her embrace, not wanting to disturb her. As he sat up, he noticed that Peachette was staring at him, her eyes wide with surprise.
Peachette: (Whispers) What are you doing?
Funky: (Whispers back) I was just... uhh...heh...
Peachette forgot about Daisy being inbetween her and Luigi as she noticed the green plumber sleeping right next to her, laying flat on the ground.
Peachette: (Whispers) Did you... Did you guys...?
Funky: (Whispers) No, no, it's not like that. She just... I- ugh...Don't worry about it...I'm sure she won't suspect anything once she wakes up, uhhh...do you still have your sheet music and everything?
Peachette nodded and whispered a reassurance to Funky before quietly gathering her things. She glanced over at Daisy, who was still sound asleep, her cheek resting against the soft fur of Funky's arm. Funky looked down at her, his expression a mix of concern and confusion. He didn't know how to explain his all of his reoccurring actions, but he knew he had to find a way to make things right eventually before it's too late.
UMM...MY NIGGA...WHOS GONNA HELP ME MA-