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.
Mario and Luigi began to stir, stretching their arms and yawning. The sound of their movements woke up the rest of the group, who slowly emerged from their cocoons of fabric and started to gather their instruments.
Mario: (Rolls over) mmmmm...Funky? Peachette? Y'all two are up already too?
Peachette: (Nods) Yeah, just trying to get everything together.
Mario: (Yawns) Right, we got a big day ahead of us...
Funky Kong glanced across the tent at Rosalina; her tall frame stretched out on the floor as she was sleeping, her bass propped up against the chair next to her. He couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for his behavior the night before. As the group began to pack up their sleeping bags and instruments.
Peachette was confused as to why he was looking at her, and felt concerned.
Peachette: Um, Why are you looking at her for? Do you think we should wake her up right now? The recording session isn't until noon, and it's like...I- idon't know (Yawns)... 6:30 am right now...
Funky: uh, sure I guess... she's kinda...I don't kno-
Peachette: (Cuts him off) It's okay, I'll handle it. (Nods to Mario)
Mario: (Nods back) Good call. Let's get some breakfast, we need to fuel up for the day ahead.
As the awoken group agreed, and they shuffled out of the tent, Funky couldn't help but throw one last apologetic glance in Daisy's direction before following the others out of the tent room.
The castle's kitchen was surprisingly, a bustling hub of activity, with Toads rushing around preparing breakfast tirelessly, The smell of freshly baked muffins and sizzling bacon filled the air.
Funky Kong, with Mario and Luigi behind him, walked into the giant royally decorated kitchen, the marble countertops and golden appliances reflecting the early morning light.
Funky: (Whispers to Mario) Did you tell Peach about the...uh...incident with Daisy's guitar last night?
Mario: (Nods) She heard a bit, but I told her to wait until morning to talk to her.
As they approached the table, Funky noticed Peach was already sitting there with a steaming cup of tea in her hand, her expression serious.
Peach: (Looks up) Funky, can I talk to you for a moment?
Funky's heart sank as he nodded and followed her into a quieter corner of the kitchen.
Peach: I know you didn't mean to hurt Daisy's feelings last night, but you really need to be more careful. She's already dealing with a lot from you over these past few days, including Waluigi and Wario's immature and disrespectful behavior towards her.
Funky: (Nods) I know, Peach. I just wanted to lighten the mood, but I guess I went too far...again...for the millionth time...
Peach: (Puts a hand on Funky's arm) Funky, I know you're trying. But you can't keep making the same mistakes over and over. Daisy's really not having it with you right now because of your constant fuck-ups but, yo- you'll see eye to eye with her eventually, I know you will.
Funky nodded, feeling the weight of Peach's words. He knew he had to change and become a better person for the sake of the band and for Daisy, who had grown increasingly important to him.
The group gathered around the large breakfast table, the smell of pancakes and fresh fruit filling the room. They ate in relative silence, the tension from the previous night still lingering. Funky Kong saw a Toad screaming running past him as he sat between Mario and Peach. Peachette was still upstairs waiting for Rosa and the others to awake from their slumber. She crawled over to see Rosalina on the floor, sleeping sideways. She crawled over the tall blonde-haired woman and towered over her, shaking her gently.
Rosalina twitched and jittered from the shaking as she slowly opened one of her eyes behind her large, messy bang.
Rosalina: (Sleepily) What's going on? Did we oversleep?
Peachette: No, it's still early. The others are downstairs eating breakfast, we should get down there too.
They both stood up and began to fold their sleeping bags. As they did so, Peachette noticed her bag still lying on the floor next to Daisy, who was still asleep, tossing and turning over herself.
Peachette: (Picks up her sleeping bag) Uh...oh yeah, I forgot about Daisy...
Rosalina: Don't worry, I'll get her ready myself once she wakes u-
Peachette: You sure you don't wanna eat though?
She looked at Rosa with a playful little smile on her face,
Rosalina: (Gently smiles back) Yeah, I'm sure. You go ahead.
Peachette nodded and made her way downstairs, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about the recording session ahead. As she entered the kitchen, the aroma of breakfast grew stronger, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort from the familiar scene of her friends enjoying their meal together.
Funky was sitting next to Peach, his face a little more somber than usual, and Mario was chatting next to his brother as Toad's were still scattering behind them as they ate.
Peachette: (Cheerfully) Good morning everyone!
Her voice was met with muffled greetings and nods, the tension from last night still evident in the air.
Mario: (Turns from the stove) Funky, can I talk to you outside for a second?
Funky: (Nods) Sure thing, Mario.
The two of them stepped out into the castle's courtyard, the cool morning air a stark contrast to the warmth inside. The sun was just beginning to rise over the Mushroom Kingdom's horizon, casting a soft orange glow on the cobblestone pathways.
Mario: Look, I know you're trying to make things right, but you've got to be more thoughtful, man. Daisy's really important to this friend group we got going on, and if you keep messing up, it's going to ruin everything.
Funky Kong sighed, running his hand through his messy, overgrown hair.
Funky: I know, Mario. I'm just... I don't know what to do to make it up to her.
Mario: Maybe you should just... I don't know, be less...arrogant? I'm pretty sure back at your little Island with the rest of the Kongs, they educated you on that. Daisy's very...pissy when it comes to certain character traits a person may share with her...so...take that into account everytime your near her...please...
Funky nodded solemnly, taking in his friend's words of advice.
Mushroom Kingdom's air was fresh, with a hint of dew still clinging to the leaves of the nearby bushes. Funky Kong looked over at Mario, who was picking at his food, clearly lost in his own thoughts.
Funky: Thanks, man. I'll try...again.
Mario clapped him on the back reassuringly before they both headed back inside ss they sat down. Back upstairs in the giant tent area, Daisy finally emerged from underneath it, her hair disheveled and eyebags under her lower lids were visible.
Rosalina decided to help her walk out of the tent, as she was still pretty tired.
Daisy: (Rolls her eyes) Thanks for the help, I guess...
Rosalina nodded and gave her a small smile before walking with her into the connected bathroom next to the giant tent area to clean her up a bit. She turned on the lightswitch in the bathroom, and pulled up a pink chair that she could barely squeeze into. She sat the shorter ginger princess in her lap, got a comb and gently brushed her two large side bangs neatly before combing her short, frayed hair in the back.
Daisy looked into the mirror, her reflection showing the tiredness she felt. She sighed heavily, her breath fogging up the mirror.
Daisy: (Whispers) I don't know if I can keep doing this...
Rosalina: What do you mean?
Daisy's eyes filled with unshed tears as she looked at her reflection.
Daisy: (Whispers) I'm...I'm just so tired of everything, Rosalina. The constant fighting, the competition, and...Funky...
Rosalina stopped brushing for a moment and placed a comforting hand on Daisy's shoulder.
Rosalina: Funky can be...a little bit of an idiot sometimes, but he's got a heart of gold, you know?
Daisy: (Sniffs) Yeah, I know. It's just...he's so clumsy with his feelings. It's frustrating.
Rosalina handed her a damp towel to wipe off her face as she nodded in understanding.
Rosalina: Sometimes, guys just need a little nudge in the right direction. Don't give up on him just yet.
Daisy took a deep breath, her eyes meeting Rosalina's in the mirror.
Daisy: You're right. I'll try to see if I can talk to him again today...
Once Rosalina finished cleaning Daisy's face up, she decided to stay in the bathroom as Daisy walked out. She didn't wanna use Peach's stuff without her permission, but since it was a guest bathroom, she didn't care and tried to follow her normal routine when it came to make up.
Meanwhile, downstairs in the dining hall, everyone else was already sitting at the long table, plates piled high with food. Peach was at the head, looking over her group with a proud smile.
Luigi then saw a fly buzz around his food, as he swatted his hand in all different directions, it past Mario and landed in Funky's chair, resulting in him screaming with a disgusted yet confused expression.
Mario: (Chuckles) What's the matter, Funky?
Funky: (Panics) A bug! A bug!
The group looked over to see Funky jump out of his chair and start flailing his arms around. The fly buzzed around his head, seemingly enjoying the chaos it was causing.
Peach: Oh, for Pete's sake.
The group watched as Peach calmly stood up, took a napkin, and gently swiped it over the fly, capturing it. She walked over to the window and let it out.
Peach: (Sighs) Breakfast is getting cold, everyone.
They all chuckled, the tension from the night before seeming to ease a bit as they dug into their breakfasts. The sound of plates clinking and the occasional laugh filled the room as they ate, talking about their plans for the day.
But Funky couldn't shake off the feeling of dread that had settled in his stomach. He knew he had to find a way to make things right with Daisy before it was too late.
As the meal came to an end, Peach clapped her hands together.
Peach: Alright, everyone. It's time to get ready for the recording session. Make sure to not let any problems stir up this time, please...
Everyone nodded, and headed towards the giant castle door with their stuff, with Rosalina still upstairs, obligatory to everyone about to head back to their homes to get ready before noon.
Funky watched as Daisy walked out the door, her eyes avoiding his, and he knew he had to do something. He took a deep breath and decided to follow her.
Outside, the Mushroom Kingdom was already bustling with life, the sun now fully risen and casting warm rays over the cobblestone streets. Funky spotted Daisy walking towards the gardens, her shoulders slumped and her usual peppy gait replaced by a solemn march. He quickened his pace, catching up to her.
Funky: Hey, Daisy... Can we talk?
Daisy stopped but didn't turn around.
Daisy: What is it, Funky?
Her voice was tired and strained. Funky felt his heart sink even further.
Funky: I'm sorry about last night. I didn't mean to...ya know...make you...uhhhh-
Daisy: Make me what?
Funky: Ummm...your...guitar...
Daisy spun around, her eyes flashing with a mix of anger and sadness.
Daisy: You're sorry for making me drop my guitar? Or are you sorry for the way you've been treating me the past few days?
Funky's eyes widened, realizing the gravity of the situation.
Funky: (Nods) Yes, Daisy, for everything. I know I've been...a bit...thoughtless.
Daisy's expression softened a little, but she remained firm.
Daisy: Look, Funky. I know we're all under pressure with this music we gotta record and... and everything else going on, but we're all friends, We're supposed to support each other, not cause unnecessary bullshit.
Funky: (Swallows hard) You're right, Daisy. I've been...a little bit of a jerk...but I'm being for real this time, I'll do better..,I promise.
Daisy sighed, her eyes searching Funky's face for sincerity.
Daisy: Okay. I believe you. But you need to show it, not just say it.
Funky nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of his promise.
Funky: I will, Daisy. Starting right now.
The two of them walked back to the castle in silence, each lost in their thoughts. Funky couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and determination. He had a chance to make things right, and he wasn't going to blow it, or will he?
They both got their stuff again as they walked in complete silence, taking different routes back to their respective locations to clean themselves up for the recording session today. As Funky Kong and DK traveled back to an outer edge of the Mushroom Kingdom where their barrel plane was sitting, the wind picked up a bit, rustling the leaves of the trees above them. Funky couldn't shake the feeling that the wind was whispering to him, reminding him of his promises.
Funky Kong jumped into the driver's seat of his barrel plane with DK right beside him as they did a 180, heading back to DK Island to fix themselves up for the recording session. All their stuff they carried, including their instruments and music sheets were in the back seats.
Funky: (Clears his throat) Look, DK. I know I've been off my game lately, but I swear, I'll get it together. For the band, for Daisy, for all of us.
Donkey Kong: (Turns to face him) Funky, you're like a brother to me, and I know you've got it in you. Just remember, we're a team, and we're all counting on you to keep it cool today.
Funky nodded, his resolve strengthening as they flew over the bright blue sea towards DK Island. The lush greenery grew closer, and the familiar sight of their home brought a sense of comfort.
Once they had landed in Funky's garage, they climbed up the ladder back into the DK house. Dixie, Diddy and Cranky Kong were puzzled as they saw both of them arrive through the door looking, rather messy and Un-neatly groomed.
Dixie: Uh, DK? Funky? Why were you two not here last night?
Funky: (Embarrassed) It's a long story, We had some...interesting encounters during the rehearsal yesterday, and we decided to stay at the castle overnight with the others after getting ice cream...I really hope Waluigi can just stop with the toxicity or just save it for another time...he's never acted like that during music preformances...he usually just holds it in and makes sure it's a team effort...but yesterday...It was a whole different ballpa-
Diddy: (Cuts him off) Funky, we're happy you guys are back, but what's going on? You look like you've seen a ghost...or at least had a rough night.
Donkey Kong chuckled, trying to lighten the mood.
Donkey Kong: Maybe he saw Cranky's dance moves in his nightmares...
Cranky: (Grumbles) Watch it, ya young whippersnapper.
Funky couldn't help but smile at the banter between his family members.
Funky: (Laughs) No, no...just had some...uhhh...really needed sleep...after almost breaking a guita-
Dixie: After what?
DK facepalmed as he began to walk through the downstairs hallway and up the stairs to get himself ready, leaving Funky to explain.
Funky: (Sighs) I...accidentally...dropped...a guitar...on the ground...when we were at the castle...ummm...heheh...ohhhhhh boy.
Dixie's eyes widened with shock and a hint of amusement.
Dixie: (Shakes her head) Funky, you and your clumsiness...
Cranky: (Grumbling) Can't even handle a simple instrument without causing a scene...
Ignoring Cranky's remark, Funky quickly filled them in on the night's events and the impending recording session. Dixie's expression grew more concerned as she listened.
Dixie: Funky, you really need to get your act together, this is three days in a row that you and Daisy have had conflicts...please...for the love of K Rool, don't...don't screw it up this time...I don't wanna hear another solem story about you "accidentally" messing with that girl again.
Funky: (Nods) I know, Dixie. I'll do my best.
Cranky: (Spits out his tea) And what's this about a love triangle with Peachette and Rosa? You're going to make a mess of everything.
Diddy: (Gasps) Really?
Funky: (Panics) What? No, no! It's not like that, I swear! It's just...misunderstandings!
Dixie: (Puts her hand up to stop the conversation) It's alright, we trust you, Funky. Just go get ready and come back here as soon as you can, okay? We're all counting on you.
Funky nodded, feeling the weight of their expectations on his shoulders. He hurried upstairs to his room, the walls adorned with posters of famous musicians and band logos, a stark reminder of his passion. He grabbed a fresh change of clothes and headed to the bathroom, the sound of the shower running soon filling the hallway.
As the warm water cascaded down on him, he couldn't help but think about the conversation he just had with Daisy. The way she looked at him with a mix of anger and disappointment was something he hadn't seen before, and it stung. He knew he had to prove to her, and to himself, that he could be the person she deserved. He took a deep breath and stepped out of the shower, feeling a new sense of determination.
Once dressed, Funky headed back downstairs, where DK was waiting for him, his usual grin replaced with a serious expression.
Donkey Kong: You good, man?
Funky: (Nods) Yeah, I'm good. I just need to make some changes, that's all.
They exchanged a knowing look before making their way back to the barrel plane. The flight back to the Mushroom Kingdom was quieter than before, each lost in their own thoughts about the day ahead.
As they made their way back to the Mushroom Kingdom in Funky's barrel plane, they saw Mario and Luigi waiting for them as no one else showed up at the spot yet.
Funky Kong decided to tone down the spunk-filled outfit, but still felt a little bit cocky, he still wore immense amounts of chains around his neck, and a thick dark tank top, but there were no loud agressive letters on it, and he kept his normal, ripped short jeans with the belt around them, as he didn't feel like switching it up today.
Mario and Luigi waved from the ground below, their matching outfits a stark contrast to Funky's more edgy look. As the barrel plane descended, Funky took a moment to appreciate the sight of the castle. It had always been a symbol of peace and unity in the Mushroom Kingdom.
When Funky and DK landed, they were met with a few more members, Peachette and Rosalina. Rosalina carried her Bass guitar, as well as Peachette's heavy sax for her, since she's pretty weak and short.
Funky Kong was showing DK a video on his phone once he met up with the others, not noticing Peachette saying hi to him as Mario and Luigi stood behind her, caught in their own conversation.
Peachette: (Frowning) Hello, Funky...
Funky: (Startled) Oh, Peachette! Hey! Didn't see you there.
He quickly put his phone away, trying to cover his tracks. Peachette's expression was unreadable, but Funky felt a pang of guilt.
Mario: (Picks up on the tension) Everything okay here?
Funky: (Forces a laugh) Oh, yeah, just a little...pre-recording jitters...heh...uhhhhhgg...
Peachette's eyes narrowed slightly at his dismissive tone.
Peachette: I'm not sure if we're ready for this...are we all okay?
Rosalina stepped in, her calm demeanor unwavering.
Rosalina: We've got this. We're a team. We'll work through it.
The group noticed Daisy far Behind as they started to walk, her ginger hair blowing in the wind meshing with her tan skin. Funky glanced at her from afar before following next to DK with his guitar, and his sheet music in his case. Mario led the group through an unheard-of route to a different building to record the music. As all of them approached it, Funky saw Waluigi and Wario having some sort of yap session in the distance at the door, with King Boo, the whole band's drummer, floating beside them, annoyed by their constant agressive chatting.
Mario led them to the building, with his brother Luigi right beside him as they both walked in, followed by Rosalina, Funky and DK, then Peachette and Daisy. Waluigi glanced at the two girls as they entered behind everyone else, while still rambling with Wario on the steps.
The recording studio was surprisingly high-tech for the Mushroom Kingdom's usual standards. It had sleek, chrome walls and a floor that lit up in an array of colors as they entered. The soundproofed room contained various microphones and computers layed out everywhere.
Back outside of the building, Wario and Waluigi were still rambling as King Boo flew around them with a dead expression, annoyed at their chatter.
King Boo: Y'all two are gonna be late to record with us if you keep doing this stupid shit out here...
Waluigi: (Ignores him) Yeah, but imagine if we somehow just like, scam the whole Mushroom Kingdom for coins...
Wario: (Laughs) Oh, yeah, we'd be set for life!
King Boo: (Sighs) Can we just get inside with the rest of them and record this song please?
Waluigi: (Pauses his conversation) Oh, right...yeah, sorry.
The two of them followed into the studio, their voices trailing off as the door closed behind them.
Inside, everyone was already setting up their instruments, with King Boo floating over to the premade drum kit, and setting his sticks down on the Snare. Pauline arrived super early as she was sitting at a colorful lit-up electric organ keyboard.
Mario: (To Funky) You okay, buddy? You seem a bit...distracted.
Funky nodded, trying to shake off his nerves.
Funky: (Swallows) Yeah, I'm good, Mario. Just got some things on my mind.
Mario clapped him on the back.
Mario: (Reassuringly) It's all going to be fine. We're all here for each other.
The group began to quiet down as everyone got their stuff set up, Rosalina, Daisy and Funky Kong had preset their amplifiers to their correct settings before bringing their stuff, and Peachette gulped nervously as she watched Waluigi stand next to her, grinning while fidgeting with his sax.
King Boo counted the band in for the N64 Raceway theme, as the song went on while they were recording, Funky tried to follow what Mario gave him without adding on to it, but he eventually couldnt help but add flair in-between breaks where it wasn't needed. Once it reached Waluigi's designated solo again, he followed the same pattern as before, even adding some variation to his original improvisation,
which got a nod from Daisy and Peachette, who were both watching him play with amazement.
But Waluigi had other plans. As the music reached its crescendo, he leaned over and pulled on her front hair as she was playing her guitar. Daisy yelped in surprise, her concentration broken. She whipped around, her eyes narrowing at Waluigi. He grinned back at her, not bothering to hide his mischief.
As the song ended, the room grew quiet. Peach looked around, noticing the tension that had suddenly filled the air.
Peach: What happened? Did something go wrong with the instruments?
Waluigi, quick on his feet, pointed at Funky.
Waluigi: (With a fake look of horror) Oh no! Did you guys see that? Funky messed up Daisy's hair! What a goon!
The group turned to Funky, who looked genuinely surprised. He held his hands up in protest.
Funky: What? No, I didn't do it!
But Daisy's eyes remained locked on Waluigi's, her cheeks flaming red.
Daisy: (Through gritted teeth) You did it, didn't you?
Funky's heart raced as he raised his hands up, off of his guitar, in a gesture of innocence
Funky Kong: Wha- I didn't do anything?! What the-
The room grew tense as the group looked from Waluigi to Funky and back again. Peachette's grip on her bari sax tightened.
Peachette: (Whispers to Rosalina) This isn't good...
Mario stepped in, trying to diffuse the situation.
Mario: Alright, alright, let's not jump to conclusions here. Maybe it was just an accident. We're all a little on edge today.
Daisy was angrily staring at Funky Kong as she stood next to him, looking up at him as her pupils grew, and her face getting more distressed as she inched closer to him, not saying anything.
Funky: (Nervously) Daisy, come on, you know me, I wouldn't do something like that, especially not right now.
Waluigi snickered from the side, his smug look not helping the situation at all. Peachette looked at Funky, her expression one of doubt, which only added to his distress.
Rosalina: (Firmly) Funky, Did you pull Daisy's hair...be honest...please...
Funky: (Shakes his head) No, Peach! I swear, it wasn't me!
But Daisy's glare was unrelenting. The silence grew heavier, with Daisy's breathing getting louder and more heavy.
Funky backed away slowly, looking down at the princess as she inched closer everytime he stepped away from her. Daisy put her guitar on the floor, still not saying anything to him as she saw him run off into one of the back rooms, she followed him with heavy footsteps, still not making a sound out of her mouth.
In the small, soundproofed room, Funky turned around, his eyes wide with shock and fear.
Funky: (Panics) Daisy, please...it's not what it looks like, I swear on my grandpa's barrel...I didn't do it...
Daisy slammed the door shut, the noise from the main area concluded as she continued to follow Funky around the small room the two were now concaved in.
Funky Kong eventually got cornered as he looked to see if there was a way to get out, but to his surprise he was stuck in between two randomly oriented old chairs. He turned back to face forwards only to be jumpscared with Daisy's whole face obscuring 99% of his vision of the small, quiet room.
Funky: aaAAAAAAaaHH! Holy shi-
Her eyes were watery, and her cheeks were red with anger. Funky's heart sank as he realized the gravity of the situation.
Daisy (Screaming): I HAVE HAD IT WITH YOU! YOU KEEP LYING TO ME OVER AND OVER AGAIN, AND I'VE (inhales) HAAD IIIIIITTTT!
Funky (Panicking): Daisy, I didn't pull your hair, I swe-
Daisy beamed him in the head with her first, making the big muscular ape humanoid fall backwards onto the floor, still cornered.
Daisy (Screaming): YOU'RE THE ONLY ONE NEXT TO ME, SO IT WASS YOUUU! I'M MAKING SURE YOU NEVER GET INVITED TO THE MUSHROOM KINGDOM EVER AGAIN! YOU'RE DOONEE!
Funky Kong's eyes widened as he held his head in pain, his heart racing. He knew he had to set the record straight before things got any worse.
Funky: (Sits up, holding his head) Daisy, please, you have to believe me, it wasn't me!
Daisy's fists were clenched, her knuckles white with rage.
Daisy: I don't believe you...and I NEVER WILL...ANYMORE!
She stormed out of the room and slammed the door again, leaving Funky alone in it all by himself. She made it back to where everyone was, stomping into to her same position with tears streaming down her tan face. She crossed her arms and pouted in rage as everyone gave her concerned looks while holding their instruments.
Mario: Daisy? What's wrong? Did something happen?
Daisy: (Turns around, her eyes on fire) That JERK did it again, and he won't admit it!
Waluigi smirked to himself, knowing full well what he had done, but Funky's heart dropped as he heard the door open again. DK rushed in, his eyes wide with worry.
Donkey Kong: Funky, is everything okay? Did you guys have a fight?
Funky: (Standing up) DK, it wasn't me, I swear!
But DK's gaze was on Daisy's tear-stained face.
Donkey Kong: (Furiously) Did you hurt her?
Funky's heart sank even further as he realized that DK was on Daisy's side.
Funky: I'm being serious...I- you better not say no bullshit to me...Waluigi's punk ass did it...not me...
But DK wasn't listening, his eyes were glued to Daisy's pained expression.
Donkey Kong: Like she said, I could hear her through the door way, YOU were the only one next to her, smart guy. So It definetly was yo-
Funky Kong snapped as fanged teeth grew from his mouth, indicating the first states of his primal instincts coming out, he grabbed one of the chairs he was cornered in, and gritted his teeth at his primate friend standing in front of him.
Funky: Look, I know what I did, and I know what I didn't do, pulling that girl's hair, WAS NOT ONE OF THEM!
DK took a step back, surprised by Funky's sudden aggression. Funky threw the chair aside, his eyes never leaving DK's.
Donkey Kong: (Raises his hands) Alright, alright, calm down, Funky. We'll sort this out.
Funky: Go sort out why you dont wear shirts, you grimy ass ape, now go...leave me alone...
DK stepped out of the room, his expression a mix of confusion and concern. Funky slammed his hand into the wall, his knuckles turning white with anger. He couldn't take the slander anymore as Waluigi, one of his many close friends, from a neighboring land to the Mushroom Kingdom, was wrongfully snitching on him.
Mario walked towards the retro-looking door, and looked through it, seeing Funky Kong inside the room, pacing back and forth.
Mario: (Sighs) Funky, come on out. We're not going anywhere until we get to the bottom of this.
Funky paused his pacing and turned to the door, his expression torn between anger and desperation as he busted it open with his giant fist, making Mario fly into the backwall.
Funky: What... is it...
Mario quickly regained his composure, rubbing his head.
Mario: Funky, we need to talk about this. Daisy's really upse-
Funky: I- I DONT CARE ANYMORE! THIS WHOLE WEEK HAS JUST BEEN NOTHING BUT HATRID, AND PURE BULLSHIT AND MISUNDERSTANDINGS, AND I'M SICK OF THEM!
Mario looked at Funky, surprised by his outburst, but understanding the weight of the situation. He took a step closer to Funky, his voice firm but calm.
Mario: Funky, we need to keep our cool. We're a team, remember? We can't let personal issues get in the way of what we're here to do.
Funky took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure, he firmly grabbed his frayed hair and pulled on it try and ease his stress, which didn't work.
Rosalina had Daisy in her embrace next to King Boo's drum kit, as she tried to not cry outloud so no one could hear her.
Waluigi snickered quietly as he stood in between Luigi and Peachette, his two fellow saxophonists. Luigi noticed this and knew something was off, but was too shy to tell everyone the truth.
Peachette: (Approaches the two) Funky, Daisy is really upse-
Funky Kong: Oh my God I THINK I CAN SEE THAT PRETTY CLEARLY!
Mario: (Rubbing his head) Alright, let's all just... I don't know...I think we just all talk it out in a nice manner, an-
Funky: SHE WANTS TO LITERALLY BEAT MY ASS YOU IDIOT! DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND?
Peachette took a step back, a little frightened by Funky's outburst as his big fist was against her face.
Mario grabbed Peachette's shoulders and dragged her back to the main area everyone was in, Daisy heard his yelling and screaming from where she was, still in Rosalina's arms.
Mario: (Shakes his head) Funky, you need to calm down. You're scaring Peachette.
Funky Kong inched closer to the two, fists clenching with each step as his muscles poked out through his fur.
Funky: If I'm scaring you, then go...go back to where everyone is...and get the fuck away from me.
Mario's eyes widened at the harshness in Funky's voice. He knew Funky was on the edge, but he also knew that the ape was going through a tough time. He glanced back at Peachette, who nodded, understanding the seriousness of the situation. They both quickly walked back to the main area as they saw Waluigi walking towards the bathroom, which was right past the room Funky was standing in front of.
Peachette: WALUIGI! WAIT! DON'T GO OVER THERE, YOU MIGHT GET-
Before she could finish, she heard screaming and beating sounds from across the hall as Funky Kong pinned Waluigi against the wall, and started punching him and uppercutting him relentlessly, until throwing him up in the air, and roundhouse-kicking him into the other wall.
Waluigi: (Yelps) AH, FUNKY, STOPPITTTTTT WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-
The sound of Waluigi's screams echoed through the hallway, making some of the other band members concerned as they walked through the hall, seeing the violence unfold before their eyes.
Mario: FUNKY, STOP!
But Funky's fury was unbridled as he continued to pummel Waluigi. The rest of the team watched in shock, unable to believe the usually laid-back Funky had lost control like this.
Rosalina had her hands over her mouth as she tried to break the two apart as Waluigi was on the ground, blood spilling from his nose and mouth.
Funky : (Through clenched teeth) You...you...
Waluigi (Coughs): (With a smirk) You know, Funky, for hating Daisy, you must really want to be with her, cause you keep trying to keep me away...heheh...
Funky's rage grew even more intense at the implication, his fists flying even faster. Rosalina and Mario struggled to pull him away from Waluigi, who was now cowering on the floor.
Rosalina: Funky, please! This isn't solving anything!
Mario: (Pulls at Funky's arm) We need to talk about this, but not like this!
Finally, with the combined effort of Mario, Rosalina, and Peachette, they managed to pry Funky away from Waluigi. He was left on the floor, holding his bruised face, glaring up at Funky.
Waluigi: (Spits out a tooth) You're going to regret this, Funky. You're gonna pay for that.
Funky's eyes were wild, but he took a step back, panting heavily. His heart was racing in his chest, and he could feel the adrenaline pumping through his veins.
Funky: (Panting) I didn't pull her hair...I wouldn't do that...
Daisy had emerged from her spot near King Boo's drums and turned the corner, seeing everyone surrounding Waluigi on the floor.
Daisy: Wha...what happened here...? Why is Waluigi so bruised up?
Mario: Uh...Don't...pay attention to this...ha..haha...uhhhh...
But Daisy's eyes were fixed on Funky, who was breathing heavily, his chest rising and falling as he stared back at her.
Daisy: (Trembling) Did...Funky..do this...or did DK or someone else do this...
Funky heard her talking about him but ignored her, watching Waluigi squirm and twitch on the ground as his long purple overall-covered legs shook back and forth.
Funky: (Mumbles to himself) It's over...it's all over...I can't believe this shit...
Peachette: Funky...you need to get it together, like...please...
Funky: I already told you...don't say another thing to me...
Daisy heard him as he was talking to Peachette, she looked up and far down the hall to see him with an angry glance at one of her best friends and decided to defend her.
Daisy: DON'T TALK TO HER LIKE THAAT YOU WIERDO! ALSO I JUST TEXTED PEACH, YOU'RE BANNED FROM HER CASTLE TOO!
Funky and everyone else saw her talking from the end of the hallway, his testostorone level shot up immediately as he turned primal again, this time, his full, unfiltered animal instincts took form as he burled over to her, making the whole ground shake.
Funky: WHAT WAS THAT YOU GINGER BITCH?
As she saw him approach her, she began to run back down the hallway, her heart racing in fear. The sound of his heavy steps chased after her, echoing through the halls like a drumbeat of doom. She knew she had gone too far, but her anger had blinded her to the consequences of her words.
Peachette: (Panicking) Daisy, what have you done?
Mario: Funky, no! Stop!
Funky: FIRST YOU HATE ON ME FOR NO REASON, NOW YOU SIDE WITH SOMEONE WHO HATES YOU?
But Funky's rage was unstoppable. He chased after Daisy, his eyes blazing with fury. As Daisy turned a corner, he was able to grab her and gut punch her, sending her flying across the other hallway until he heard an echoing springy sound followed by a giant crash.
Daisy: (Screams in pain)
The sound of her scream pierced through the hallways, bringing everyone to a standstill. Funky turned around and walked over to where the main area was, snatching his things and storming towards the exit, his big feet nearly caved the floor in as he walked.
Mario: Funky, where are you going?
Funky didn't bother looking back.
Funky: To go bang your girl, Peach, in the Pussy, Mario. Also tell Daisy she can get a room with Waluigi since she wants to side with him even though he picks on her and mocks her everyday, making her feel miserable, I'm out.
Funky Kong slammed the doors connecting to the outside shut as everyone from inside watched him leave with his guitar and his case. He went to where his barrel plane was, not caring if DK was going to follow him or not, and rode all the way back to DK Island again. Once he parked it in his garage, he climbed back in the DK house.
Once he got inside, Dixie greeted him and asked him how the recording session went, but he ignored her, still red with anger as he stomped up the stairs, and through the hallway to his room. He Hurled his stuff down on the floor and set his guitar on his bed.
BACK AT THE RECORDING STUDIO WITH EVERYONE ELSE...
The atmosphere in the studio was tense and heavy, like a thundercloud on the verge of a downpour. Rosalina and Peachette rushed over to Daisy, who was slowly picking herself up from the floor, wincing in pain.
Rosalina: Daisy, are you okay?
Daisy: (Tears streaming down her face) I... I can't believe he did that to me...
Peachette: That was totally uncalled for...
Mario sighed heavily, rubbing the back of his neck as he stared at the closed door.
Mario: This is a mess...
Meanwhile, in the control room, the sound engineer looked up from his mixer, bewildered by the sudden outburst of violence and chaos.
Sound Engineering Toad: What the hell was that?
Mario: (Shakes his head) Internal band issues. W- We'll sort it out.
The group was concerned, confused, and bewildered at the scene Funky caused.
Waluigi: (Smirks) Looks like your funky monkey boy can't keep his hands to himself...
Mario: (Clutches his fists) Waluigi...shut up, you always take things way out of proportion...
The room was filled with an uncomfortable silence, everyone still processing what had just happened. Peachette looked at Daisy, who was now sitting up, holding her stomach, her eyes never leaving the floor.
Peachette: (Softly) Daisy...are you okay?
Daisy: (Looks up with tears in her eyes) No...I don't think I am...
Peach looked at Daisy with a concerned gaze, her mind racing with thoughts.
Peachette: Maybe we should call this off...we can't have this kind of behavior when we're recording songs...
Rosalina nodded in agreement, her eyes still on Daisy's bruised form.
Rosalina: (Nods solemnly) I think you're right, Peachette. We need to sort this out later today or something cause, I really don't want our giant friend group we've made over all these years to disband,
Mario: (Nods in agreement) We need to sit down and talk about this like adults. We're all friends here, and we need to support each other, especially when we're under pressure.
Daisy looked up, her eyes still wet with tears, and nodded weakly.
Daisy: (Sniffles) Okay... I just...I just don't know what to do anymore...
Mario: (Kneels down to her level) It's okay, Daisy. We're here for you. Let's just leave for now...everybody grab your things...(signs)
This isn't the environment we need for this...
The group reluctantly began to pack up their instruments, the once vibrant energy of the studio now replaced with a somber mood. As they exited, they couldn't help but glance back at the room they had been so excited to record in. The door to the bathroom remained shut, a stark reminder of the chaos that had just erupted.
Outside, the cool air was a stark contrast to the heated scene they had just left behind. Daisy leaned into Rosalina's embrace, her body trembling slightly.
Daisy: I-I didn't mean for it to get so out of hand...I just want him to stop being so cocky and arrogant towards everyone, especially me...
Rosalina: Shh, it's okay, Daisy. We're here for you.
Peachette and Mario exchanged glances, both knowing that the situation with Funky was far from over. They needed to find a way to mend the fences before the music competition.
Peachette: Maybe we should talk to Funky tomorrow, when he's had some time to cool down.
Mario: (Nods) That might be best. For now, let's just all go home...
The group dispersed, each member lost in their own thoughts. As they walked away from the studio, the echoes of Funky's fury still lingered in their ears. Rosalina walked Daisy to Peach's castle to explain what happened, and Waluigi and Wario were on their merry way to wherever they were going, with Waluigi snickering about how his evil trickster plan worked on Funky, as he made him lose his final chance to try and befriend her.
Peachette and Mario remained behind, discussing what to do next.
Peachette: I think we need to talk to Funky first thing tomorrow morning, maybe even before the competition.
Mario: (Nods) Agreed. We can't have everyone's friendship slwoly fall apart like this.
They decided to spend the night strategizing, hoping to find a way to bring everyone back together and address the underlying issues that had led to the explosive fight. Meanwhile, back at DK House, Funky was pacing in his room, his anger slowly giving way to regret. He had never lost his temper like that before, not even when Waluigi had been at his most infuriating. The weight of his actions pressed down on him, making him feel like he was suffocating.
Funky: (Mutters to himself) HATE having to deal with stuff like this...it's not fun for me...or for anyone else...
Dixie looked at him, her eyes full of concern.
Dixie: Funky, what happened?
Funky: (Ignores her) Nothing...
Dixie: Funky, you can't just ignore me. Did something happen with Daisy?
Funky sighed heavily and turned to face his sister, his eyes full of sadness and anger.
Funky: I got...blamed for something I didn't even fucking godamn do...by Walu-fucking-Igi...
Dixie's eyes widened at his language. She knew something was really wrong.
Dixie: Oh no...what happened?
Funky: He pulled her hair and blamed it on me...now she's hurt and mad...and everyone thinks I did it...
Dixie's face fell as she realized the gravity of the situation.
Dixie: Oh, Funky...you have to fix it now, you can't keep half-assing it anymore.
Funky: I'll see...Let me wiiiiind down...I'm just not in the mood to do anything, period...
Back at the castle, Daisy was lying in a bed in one of the guest rooms with Rosalina, staring at the ceiling. Her stomach was still sore from Funky's punch, but the pain in her heart was far worse.
Daisy: (Whispers) I don't even know what to say to him if we do talk...
Rosalina: Well...ugh...You do realize that, maybe it wasn't him that pulled your hair...this whole situation is just stupid...
Daisy sat up with a jolt, her eyes wide with shock.
Daisy: What? Who else could it be?
Rosalina: I saw him out the corner of my eye leaning over behind where he was standing, but I didn't get a good look. But Funky? I just don't see him doing something like that...not after the way he's been trying to better his actions, so he doesn't seem like this naggy, cocky person all the time.
Daisy's mind raced, considering the possibility that Waluigi might have been the culprit.
Daisy: (Softly) But...what if it was just a misunderstanding?
Rosalina: We'll figure it out, Daisy. For now, let's just get some rest.
Daisy nodded, laying back down and closing her eyes. The silence of the castle was deafening, and she couldn't help but replay the events of the day in her head. The feel of Funky's punch to her stomach was still fresh, and the sound of his furious voice echoed in her ears.
Mario and Peachette stayed up late into the night, brainstorming ways to fix the crack between two of their friends. They knew that the tension between Funky and Daisy had to be resolved sooner or later before it was really, REALLY too late, the thought of losing two friends due to banter and hatred over a personality trait was too much to bear.