It was a beautiful sunny day in Key West.

Just the kind of day for the daily performance in the Plaza.

In fact, Gabi and Vivo were just in the middle of a performance.

And as usual, they wowed the crowd with their unique musical talents.

And how couldn't they?

Their show was a harmonious blend of traditional Cuban rhythms and modern electronic music.

A one-of-a-kind performance put on by two one-of-a-kind street performers.

And as always, they were met by thunderous applause.

Gabi shouted with a bow, "Thank you, Key West! You've been a wonderful audience!"

Vivo also said as he got up on her shoulders, "Yes, thank you, ladies and gentlemen! Your feedback is greatly appreciated!"

Not much later after they started packing up, their friends joined them.

Stella said, "Nice work, Vivo. Excellent as always."

Vivo said, "Thank you, Stella. Like I said before, your feedback is greatly appreciated."

Tiago said, "Bro, forget feedback; your sweet expo deserves an Oscar, yo!"

Roxie agreed, "Uh, yeah! I mean, what other performer can put on a show like you do?"

Novella then playfully scoffed, "Oh, but what could one more trophy contribute to your collection of performance awards?"

However...Vivo just made a blank face.

"Uh...huh?"

Novella noticed, but assumed it was a joke.

She said with a laugh, "Oh, darling, you don't honestly mean to say that you don't have at least a shelf-full of performance awards for your outstanding performances."

But Vivo answered, "Uh, actually...no."

Novella immediately gasped with horror, "But-But-But how is it even possible that you've never even received an award of performance recognition?!"

Vivo answered, "Well, I was never really the 'competing' type. Remember, when I lived in Havana, I did shows mainly for coin. While I've always loved doing it, it was also how me and Andrés put bread on the table."

Charlotte said, "Ooh! You mean, like corn bread or a baguette?"

Vivo chuckled, "Uh, I guess in a way. But we were never really the types who compete in contests or stuff like that."

Roxie said, "Well, you just gotta! With your show, you'd win first place in, like, five seconds!"

Vivo chuckled again, "Ok, maybe I will. But who knows when the next competition will be?"

However, just then, they heard the girls.

Sarah said to Gabi, "Gabi, you are not gonna believe what I found on my way here!"

Sarah pulled out a poster.

A poster for a music competition!

A music competition between talented musicians and performers right here in Key West!

And it was only a week away!

But according to the poster, sign-ups were still open.

Gabi was thrilled, "Oh, my gosh! I've always wanted to be in a music competition!"

Becky also said, "And with your shows in the Plaza, you're more than qualified to enter!"

Gabi quickly went to Vivo, "Vivo, this is our chance to really put our skills to the test!"

Vivo was actually more nervous than excited, "Oh...really?"

Charlotte went, "Hey, that's a funny coincidence! We were just talking about how you've never done a competition and this happens! Ha!"

Vivo chuckled nervously, "Yeah...funny...coincidence."

Tiago said, "Bro, this is perfect! You can finally start your own trophy collection for your performances!"

Vivo was a little reluctant, "Uh, I don't know..."

Roxie said, "Come on! Don't you think that with your shows, you deserve something a little more than applause and cash?"

Vivo responded, "Honestly, I think that simply getting positive feedback for our shows is more than enough reward. Along with having fun with my Gabi."

Novella then said, "Well, yes, but still, it is just as Gabi said; this would be your chance to really...'put your skills to the test'."

Vivo was still unsure, "I...I just..."

Stella then said, "Well, it could be a nice experience for you. At least, just give it a try."

Vivo thought for a second.

***

At the Key West Theater, there was a booth set-up for the music competition applications.

"Sign-ups for the Key West Music Competition! If you're interested in taking part in this competition, just fill out an application!"

A number of people were already signing up.

And it wasn't long until Gabi and Vivo were among those people.

Gabi was so excited while Vivo was only slightly nervous.

They went to the booth to sign up.

The lady passing out applications greeted them, "Oh, hello! Are you two here to take part in the fun?"

Gabi excitedly said, "Sure are! Where do we sign?"

The lady chuckled, "Right here!"

She gave them the application and Gabi was quickly the first to sign.

She gave Vivo the pen...but then realized that kinkajous aren't really writers.

Gabi and Vivo chuckled at that little oversight.

Gabi then said, "Don't worry. I came prepared."

She started digging through the bottomless wonder of her backpack.

It took a minute before she said, "Aha!"

She pulled out a pad of stamp ink.

With that, Vivo gave his own signature...in the form of a paw print.

They then handed the application back to the booth lady.

"Fabulous! I can't wait to see what you and your little fuzzy-kins come up with!"

Gabi said, "Well, rest assured, it'll be unforgettable!"

Vivo chirped in agreement.

Though...Vivo was still slightly nervous.