The first light of day peeked over the idyllic and ever-growing Ponyville, casting a gentle, golden hue upon the surroundings. Dewdrops clung to the emerald grass, and the air was infused with the heavenly aroma of fresh bread and cupcakes, a delightful concoction originating from the bustling bakery of Mrs. Cake. However, despite the enchanting scene, weariness marred Mrs. Cake’s face. As the dawn’s rays filtered through the bakery windows, Mrs. Cake found herself amidst a sea of dough, ingredients, and baked goods. Her usually cheerful countenance had faded, replaced by lines etched by exhaustion. With a weary sigh, she wiped the perspiration from her brow, finding momentary solace in rubbing her aching back.

“Dear cinnamon sticks... we haven’t even opened, and I just wanna go back to bed." Mrs. Cake muttered to herself, her voice heavy with fatigue. Dark circles clung to her eyes, and her once brisk movements had slowed to a sluggish pace. “It’s gonna be a long day.”

The weight of her overwhelmingly busy morning routine was made endurable because of Pinkie Pie, who seemed to defy the laws of physics with her energetic grace. Mrs. Cake moved gracefully in the confined space of the kitchen, her soft, curvy body an elegant silhouette against the flour-dusted backdrop. The apron she wore clung to her figure, accentuating her mature yet undeniably alluring form. Beads of sweat from her exertion traced a glistening path between her ample bosom and down her plush fur. With a gentle tug at the collar of her shirt underneath the apron, she fanned herself, the hint of sensuality concealed within the casual gesture.

“Phew... I think I’m going to need to sit down after this." Mrs. Cake confessed, her flour-dusted palms leaving a faint, suggestive imprint along the neckline of her shirt. As her arms descended and rested under her chest, she couldn’t help but consider Pinkie’s earlier suggestion about selling her excess breast milk. “I think I should entertain Pinkie’s idea of selling my extra milk." Her fingers subtly pushing against her milk-filled breasts, her sigh carrying a soft note of desire. “While my dear ‘hunnybun’ loved it when the twins were still nursing... it’s become quite a burden on my back now."

Mrs. Cake’s gaze shifted towards Pinkie Pie, a twinge of concern tugging at her heart as she considered the remarkable size of Pinkie’s chest. She couldn’t help but wonder. “I wonder if she had Twilight enchant her spine or something. I can’t imagine how my spine would feel if my girls were that big.” Mrs Cake thought to herself… ‘Though I wish she would wear a bra more often.’

Mrs Cake sighed as the generous bust that Pinkie Pie had often become so drenched in sweat that her white shirt often allowed for quite the view. Recalling not but a few days ago during rush hour, her chest all but fell out of her shirt as she turned a single sale of a BerryBerry muffin to a dozen of them. Pinkie Pie's choice of suggestive clothing had its upsides, even if she didn’t want to admit it.Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but feel a twinge of self-consciousness as she worked alongside Pinkie Pie, the bouncy mare’s chest seemingly defying gravity with its impressive size.

I wonder if she had Twilight enchant her spine or something. I can’t imagine how my spine would feel if my girls were that big.’ Mrs Cake thought to herself. “Though I wish she would wear a bra more often.”

Mrs Cake sighed as the generous bust that Pinkie Pie had often become so drenched in sweat that her white shirt often allowed for quite the view. Recalling not but a few days ago during rush hour, her chest all but fell out of her shirt as she turned a single sale of a BerryBerry muffin to a dozen of them. As the chime of a bell from the front was heard, Mrs Cake went to take counter or attempted before Pinkie Pie beat her to it. A soft smile graced Mrs Cake's face, as she went back to working over the dough and preparing additional batches as she watched from behind. Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but observe the borderline lecherous gazes across Pinkie Pie.

“I wonder why she doesn’t have a stallionfriend…” Mrs Cake pondered a little aloud. “She has the looks for it, that's for sure.”

As an intrusive thought and worry that it might be because she is so busy helping her. While a part of her was thankful, that thought lingered in the back of her head. As the morning unfolded, another group of customers approached and requested Pinkie Pie to pose with them for a cute photo, a gesture she’d gladly do for those placing sizable orders of two hundred bits or more. Mrs. Cake watched as Pinkie’s playful demeanor shone through, and she couldn’t help but marvel at how sexy the mare looked in that moment.

Pinkie Pie boasted an enticing hourglass figure, some even daring to say it rivaled Princess Cadance’s. Her selective choice of clothing accentuated her sensuality, with her small, curve-hugging shorts and a white t-shirt that showcased her alluring form. Her fluffy ponytail, adorned with candy, treats, and other whimsical yet appealing trinkets, added a playful charm to her otherwise sultry appearance. Despite Pinkie Pie’s utterly seductive presence, she did feel a bit down trodden looking at her own figure. She didn't feel like the pretty mare she used to feel like… or how her hubby did.

‘Geez hunnybun… you need to get back home already.’ Mrs. Cake thought as she knew it would be at least another year at the cooking school he was at. ‘Well, I guess I should stop ogling like a young colt and get back to work.’

Despite her own gratitude for the invaluable help from her candy-sweet friend. Strangely enough, it also motivated her to keep going. Seeing the spry energy of the mare, her cheerful demeanor and tireless movements concealed the allure and sensuality that seemed to dance with every step. The energy she exuded was infectious.

On the other side of the bustling marketplace. Nestled within the cozy corner on the second floor of a Bookstore Cafe that doubled as a haven for both books and brewed delights. A griffon of pastel purple plumage and delicate build exuded an air of eccentricity, his movements punctuated by subtle twitches every so often. His eyes, hidden behind the pages of a well-worn tome, flickered towards a new presence in his solitude. A striped figure that was unmistakably a zebra approached the enigmatic griffon. He took the vacant seat across from the griffon.

“One moment please, Zakia.” The griffon spoke without raising his gaze, engrossed in the book that read. “The Scarlet Scroll.” The griffon gestured towards a teapot and a porcelain teacup sitting on a decorative saucer, a subtle smile playing on his beak. “I’m almost finished. You arrived a little sooner than expected.” With an elegant, almost invisible force of magic, his talon guided the teapot, deftly pouring a fragrant tea into the unoccupied teacup. “Please, indulge yourself. Our merchant friend has truly outdone themselves. They are doing rather well in the Crystal Kingdom.” he remarked, his talon dancing with a graceful twirl. “One lump of sugar or two?”

“Two, please. Thank you, Aeroka.” Zakia’s response came with a hint of intrigue in her voice. The teacup and its accompanying saucer floated gracefully across the table, settling before him, who accepted the offering with a gracious nod. He took a sip and puckered his lips as two more sugar cubes hovered. “It’s quite sour…” The two sugar cubes gently glided into the cup as the swirl in the tea was guided by the nearly unseen magic. Zakia notices the shimmer of a small crystal set in a gem along the griffon's finger.

“Ah, another exquisite creation from the Crystal Kingdom.” Aeroka exclaimed with a hint of excitement in his voice. “Their craftsmanship in these trinkets has truly reached a new level in recent years.” Pausing for a moment, he continued, sensing Zakia’s eagerness to discuss their current target. “But let’s put that aside for now. I believe your focus lies on Pinkie Pie, and by proxy Chiffon Swirl. Though she is commonly known, Mrs. Cake.”

“Yes, she has been quite elusive, managing to evade most of our attempts to locate her.” Zakia nodded, a trace of annoyance crossing his face. “However, we have finally resolved the conflicting information from our reports.”

“Yes, I heard. A mix of ‘blurs.” Aeroka said, a mischievous smile twitching across the griffon’s beak. “Well, it doesn’t matter now. Here’s what I have for you, thanks to your chatty mare friend up in Cloudsdale. I’ve been able to gather a wealth of information in a remarkably short time. Sifting through facts and gossip was not as difficult as I expected it would.” His excitement grew as his beak twitched even more. “Now, as for Chiffon Swirl, from what I’ve learned, ever since the influx of newcomers to Ponyville after your, let's say indulgence at Apple Acres and call for so many Siri to reside at it. A rather brazen move on your part, but one that worked in the Siri’s favor.” His words held a sense of admiration. Zakia internally groaned, knowing full well he was acting too quickly before and got lucky with how smooth its takeover was. “Chiffon has been inundated with orders, struggling to keep up with the demand with her husband overseas and her children students at Princess Twilight’s school.” He took a sip of his tea before continuing. “Pinkie Pie has been devoting most of her time to assist her as a result.” Zakia blinked in surprise at Aeroka’s words.

“Last I was aware, The Sugarcube is extremely active and lines out the door nearly every day.” Zakia said, astonished in his voice. “Are you saying it’s just been the two of them this whole time?”

“Correct. So dealing with her should be extremely easy. She’s also well aware of you… you’ve become a hot topic in gossip. I’ve done my best to scuff some of the details flowing around, specifically your name, but I am not sure how much good it will do at this point. I’d advise you to be more careful in the future.” Aeroka’s tone was mellow, but a trace of annoyance lingered beyond it. “But before we go any further, I need to bring up a rumor that has me concerned. Pinkie Pie seems to have something called her ‘Pinkie sense’, as people call it.”

“Pinkie sense?” Zakia asked, his brows furrowed in curiosity. “What is that supposed to be?”

“It is…a strange ability. I shall do my best to explain what I know.” Aeroka leaned back in his chair, swirling his tea absentmindedly. “It’s said to be a sort of innate ability she possesses, giving her an uncanny sense of impending events. Some claim she can predict danger or foresee things before they happen.”

“I see…interesting...” Zakia’s eyes narrowed as he processed this information. “Is this Pinkie sense something we should be worried about? Could it jeopardize our plans?”

“It’s hard to say for certain.” Aeroka shrugged, his feathers ruffling slightly. “Some dismiss it as mere coincidence or Pinkie Pie’s overactive imagination. However, there have been instances where her predictions have proven accurate, leaving many to wonder if there’s more to it.”

“So does she have some form of clairvoyant-like ability?” Zakia questioned, seeming very concerned about this new information.

“I am unsure. One thing I have been able to come to understand is it only seems to react when something ‘bad’ is going to happen or someone is in ‘danger.’” Aeroka stated as Zakia looked pensively at the griffon. “I believe I have a solution though.. one that can make use of that notoriety you’ve gotten through the loose lips of gossiping mares.” Zakia's ears perked at the griffon's words.

“Let’s hear it then.” Zakia replied, sighing a little. “I want no unaccounted for variables.”

---

As the hours slowly drifted towards noon, Mrs. Cake’s exhaustion weighed heavily on her, and the thought of a well-deserved lunch break became irresistible. The bustling Sugarcube Corner had been a whirlwind of activity all morning, with Pinkie Pie’s seemingly endless energy lighting up the bakery. Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but feel a pang of empathy for Pinkie, who, she was sure, needed a break as much as she did.

“Maybe I need to take a longer break today." Mrs. Cake mused, casting a tired glance toward her effervescent friend. “I’m sure she needs one as much as I do.” With that decision in mind, She closed the shop for a brief respite, her weariness demanding some time to rest and recover. Turning to Pinkie Pie amidst the flurry of customers, she made her announcement. “Pinkie, I’m going to be closing the shop for an hour. Go get yourself some lunch. You’ve more than earned the break, honey." she called out, the weariness evident in her voice.

Okay, Mrs. Cake!” Pinkie Pie replied, echoing back from the back of the bakery. “I’m gonna go get some errands done then! See you later.”

“Alright, but don’t overdo it. You’ve been all but bouncing off the walls!” Mrs. Cake’s concern was obvious in her voice as she cautioned her energetic friend, to which Pinkie Pie’s playful reassurance reached her ears.

“I promise I won’t!” Pinkie smiled, though it couldn’t be seen from where she was. “So don’t worry; I’ve got plenty of energy to spare!”

With Pinkie off on her break, Mrs. Cake settled into a cozy corner of the bakery, taking a deep breath as she sought to relax and rejuvenate. Time seemed to fly by as she enjoyed the tranquility. The bakery bathed in a comforting silence. Just as she started to lose herself in the peaceful moments of her respite, a pair approached the shop’s door. A zebra and a clean cut looking griffon were walking alongside him. Her initial intention was to turn them away, knowing she had closed for a short while to rest, but her dedication and inability to deny anyone with a sweet tooth got the better of her. She rose from her comfortable nook, approached the door, and welcomed the unexpected visitors.

“Come on in." Mrs. Cake invited with a warm smile, her fatigue momentarily forgotten. She made her way behind the counter and inquired. " What can I get you, boys?” Her question hung in the air before her brow furrowed and she questioned. “Wait, are you Zakia by any chance?” The zebra seemed surprised but nodded.

“Yes.” Zakia replied, looking at her in some confusion. “I am…how did you know?”

“Oh, Windy talks so much about you. She’s got the chatterbox, more so after your help with her husband.” Mrs. Cake said as the exhaustion she once held seemed to evaporate. “You, though I don’t know about it.” She pointed to the griffon. The griffon pompously pushed her finger to the side.

“I am Boarit.” The griffon said, his accent sharp and gruff. He only stared and said nothing else.

“Please meet you Boarit.” Mrs. Cake nodded her head with a smile. The griffon gave her no response.

“Apologies, he’s not much of a talker.” Zakia interjected, diffusing any ill will that that dismissive action might have caused. “My friend isn’t very social.”

“It’s alright, a friend of mine has a sister that is much the same.” Mrs. Cake replied, her thoughts briefing thinking of Maud Pie. “Well what can I do for you Zakia, if you need me to bake a cake for a wedding then I hate to say it but I don’t have the means to help with that.”

“Oh no, not that.” Zakia said, shaking his head. “That won’t be needed for quite some time. I actually was coming here at Windy’s recommendation. Though not for the best pastries in Ponyville.” He brought out a piece of paper. “Windy gave me this to give to you to introduce me, but I think that’s required anymore.” He then stuffed the paper back into his pocket. Mrs Cake’s curiosity was piqued at the zebra’s words.

“I suppose not.” Mr. Cake said as she looked at the Zebra with even more curiosity now. “What can I do for you then?”

“Well I wanted to offer my organization services. I’ve learned that you and one other are the only ones working. That has to be exhausting with how busy it’s been.” Zakia said with a warm smile, gesturing to the griffon and said. “You see, Boarit here is a baker himself. Though he specializes in griffon baked goods but also fusion foods and he has about a dozen apprentice bakers that could work here for free to gain experience… if you’re willing to accept them that is.” Mrs Cake gaze rested on Boarit for a moment before looking back at the zebra.

“Really?” Mrs. Cake questioned, finding it almost too good to be true. She was a bit taken back but soon followed by excitement she could barely contain. “Are you sure?”

“Yes, I found it baffling that you were doing so much work with just two people.” Zakia said in a friendly tone. “So after consulting my friend here. I thought maybe this offer would be appealing to you.”

“Though I am unsure if you want it… I’m sure you could have hired others.” Zakia questioned before halting his words and said “Oh, that’s rude of me to pry like that.” As Mrs. Cake waved her hand and halted his apology.

“No no no, you’re fine sweetheart. I’ve just not had the time to hire.” Mrs. Cake said as she let out an exhausted, deep breath. “I’ve barely had time for myself for a while now. Let alone go through the process of hiring people.”

“I understand completely.” Zakia replied. “I really do hope that you accept them…or at least give it a trial run.” Mrs Cake seemed to be lost in thought before she closed her eyes.

“The extra help would be nice. Windy also sent him my way.” Mrs Cake thought to herself as she considered the zebra’s offer. “But I also will have to teach them the recipes and that could take a while..” Her internal turmoil wasn’t well hidden. Letting out a heavy exhausted sigh.

“I don’t think it would hurt.” Mrs Cake stated as she said as Zakia seemed pleased with her words. “I’d be willing to try at least.”

---

The following days were a blitz for The Sugarcube Corner, many showing a significant amount of annoyance at the closure of the bakery for nearly a week with the sign on the front saying “Close due to training new staff.” While many were understanding, some remained annoyed all the same. With a sigh Mrs Cake collapsed on a stool, wiping sweat from her brow as she observed the hard-working griffins and zebras that she had been tasked with teaching the recipes.

For the first time in a long time, she felt like a huge weight was lifted from her shoulders. It had been a stressful, but fruitful experience as the Sugarcube Corner now had not only a dozen new staff but also a revamped menu that had some rather curious sounding items that were designed to target more than just the palette of ponies but griffins as well and a few new fusion treats.

She wasn't the only one that found some reprieve as she talked with Pinkie Pie who seemed excited at her words and at the older mares' words. Suggested she go visit her family on the farm after so long, knowing all too well that the pink mare had been ‘homesick.’ The excited response from the pink mare still made her shake her head, letting a small laugh escape her lips.

“You seem a lot more relaxed, I guess getting one's beauty sleep for the first time in a while would be good.” Mrs Cake turned to look at the new voice, seeing Zakia who brought a stool up beside her and sat at the counter with her. “Yeah, it has been a while hasn’t it...'' She let out a small yawn. “Thank you for doing this Zakia... I honestly can’t thank you enough.'' Zakia laughed at the remark.

“I am sure you’ll find a way.” Zakia replied with a cheeky smile and Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but let out a small laugh in return. “A professional such as yourself can do it.”

“Yes but don’t try putting the moves on this mare.” Mrs. Cake said as Zakia's smile faltered a bit. “I don’t swing like Windy so ‘my way’ wont be with me on my back.”

“I can’t say I am not a bit disappointed.” Zakia said as he looked slightly disappointed. “But I understand.”

“Sorry honey.” Cup said, her self deprecating remark feeling a bit more than playful banter. “Though I’m flattered all the same, besides you can do much better than this old mare I’m sure.”

“Hmm...I’d have to disagree with that.” Zakia countered, his fingers rubbing against his chin. “A mare that is both kind, generous and thoughtful...among a few other things.” He continued as he placed his elbows on the counter and his hands went under his chin, his gaze fixated on Mrs. Cake’s figure. “Mhmmm?” Mrs. Cake gave him a look he knew all too well as she didn't reject his advances.. but also didn’t accept them either. “I won’t turn down any argument you might have to convince me otherwise though.” but she still seemed to resist him. “Ahhh you’re such a tease.” Zakia said playfully as he shook his head. “Though I suppose that’s part of the allure of a mare such as yourself.”

“Windy wasn’t kidding.” Mrs. Cake let out a lighthearted chuckle at the zebra’s flattery. “You love buttering up a mare.” Zakia gave her a playful smirk.

“I suppose I do.” Zakia said back, returning the banter. “Well...perhaps next time I come back you’ll change your tune?”

“No promises, but likely not.” Mrs. Cake’s words teased the zebra. “I’m a married mare but keep sweet talking and you might have a chance... a small one.”

“A challenge is it? Perhaps you may fall for a stallion at the right time?” Zakia questioned as he gestured towards his chest. “Don’t count on that dear.” He couldn’t help but grin. “Hmm if not fall..maybe something temporary.” Mrs. Cake gave him a coy smile, knowing he was fishing for answers.

“Perhaps.” Mrs. Cake’s coy response came, along with a suggestive wink. Stretching her back to relieve some of the tension from the day’s activities. “Well, I think that’s enough for today. I’m still a bit tired... and by the looks of it, the bakery is running just fine.”

“If that changes I’ll be sure to come and get you.” Zakia said as Mrs Cake got up but swayed her hips in a teasing way, her caked up bottom being quite the sight. “Respectfully, of course.”

Zakia grinned to himself, his gaze lingering on the large shapely derriere of the mature mare as she turned and headed out the door. Mrs Cake moved down the street to the small apartment that she had gotten for herself in the last week, with how busy the bakery had become. She wouldn’t be able to get any sleep in it anymore and with the excessive amount of bits saved up, she had more than enough. Upon entering the modest living quarters, Mrs. Cake sighed and laid on the couch, her mind a blur of thoughts as she closed her eyes.

“I’m finally able to get a decent rest.“ Mrs. Cake sighed to herself. Exhaustion overtaking her almost instantly the moment she laid down. “A nap will certainly help.”

---

Mrs. Cake woke up the next day on the couch, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. She stretched her arms overhead, relishing in the feeling of a good night’s sleep. Glancing at the clock, she realized it was already noon, and she couldn’t help but chuckle at how late she had slept. Feeling a surge of energy, Mrs. Cake hopped off the couch and made her way to the kitchen. She decided to treat herself to a leisurely brunch, taking her time to prepare a delicious meal. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as she sipped on a steaming cup, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment.

As she savored each bite of her brunch, Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but reflect on the events of the previous day. The successful training of the new staff at Sugarcube Corner and the revamped menu brought a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. She felt a renewed sense of purpose and pride in her work. While thoughts of Zakia’s playful advances crossed her mind, Mrs. Cake knew she had made it clear that she was a married mare. She appreciated the attention and banter, finding it flattering, but she remained committed to her husband. The small chance Zakia had mentioned seemed more like a playful challenge than a possibility.

‘Oh cinnamon, what would a young buck want like an old mare like me.’ Mrs. Cake thought; the tantalizing thoughts that crossed her minds at the zebra’s remarks. ‘I doubt they were in earnest.’

She shook her head dismissing the thoughts further, a knock at her door drew her attention. As Mrs. Cake opened the door, she was greeted by the sight of Windy Whistle, a close friend from Cloudsdale, standing before her. The surprise visit brought a smile to Mrs. Cake’s face as she welcomed her friend inside. A playful smile ran across the pegasus milf’s face as she waved to her friend.

“Windy! What a pleasant surprise!” Mrs. Cake exclaimed, embracing her friend in a warm hug. “What brings you all the way from Cloudsdale?”

“I thought I would pay you a visit and see how things were going at the bakery.” Windy chuckled and replied. “I’ve heard a bit from Zakia but I must say. It seems to be taking off. And from the looks of it.. you’ve had some time to breathe as well.” Mrs Cake couldn’t help but smile and nodded.

“I’m not complaining.” Mrs. Cake said, the bags under her eyes had all but disappeared, though traces still remained of them. “But how did you know I was staying here?”She hadn't told anyone really and only a few knew at the moment.

“I might have asked Zakia.” Windy said sheepishly. “I hope you don’t mind.”

“Of course not.” Mrs. Cake shook her head and responded. "I’m always happy to see you! Come in and have a seat.” Windy smiled and obliged, taking a seat at the dining table as her friend prepared a fresh pot of tea. As they sat down to enjoy a cup of tea and catch up.

“So where to start, so much has happened since you last visited Cloudsdale. Not to mention everyones still abuzz about Dashy finally getting married.” Windy stated as she took a sip of her tea and said “Oh! And the change with Bo and there's also…”

Mrs Cake gave her chatterbox marefriend a soft smile, it had been a while since she had been able to do this. The two bantered on for what seemed like hours, the talk of the twins at Twilight’s school being their topic but Windy seemed to be a bit interested in how things were with her husband. Looking around for a moment, she paused from her long ramblings, took a drink of her tea, and sighed a little.

“He’s still away huh?” Windy asked, to which Mrs. Cake nodded to that statement. “Wow, how long has it been now?”

“Yep, still away..but we do send letters often to keep in touch.” Mrs Cake replied, giving her own small sigh. “It’s not the same as talking in person, but it’s better than nothing... but when he gets back it’s gonna be a huge benefit for the bakery.”

“I bet.” Windy chuckled softly. “How has that been going by the way? I’ve heard you got new staff...which was a shock and a half considering.”

“I was having trouble keeping up and so was Pinkie and with what has been going on with Carrot at that Baking school.” Mrs. Cake sighed in response, trying not to come across as too worried. “I didn’t even have the twins to ask for help. It was exhausting.” She poured herself and her guest another cup of tea. “So when Zakia came by with the offer at your recommendation... I found it hard to turn it down.“

“I’m glad it’s turned out so well, I’m not entirely sure what his organization does but it seems everywhere he goes with them seems to result in something good happening.” Windy commented, waving her hand back and forth. “I mean have you heard about what happened over at Apple Acres?” Mrs. Cake couldn’t help but tilt her head, knowing something had happened there.

“What do you mean, I’ve not heard anything.” Mrs. Cake asked, raising a curious eyebrow to her friend. “But that’s not surprising, I haven’t exactly been keeping up with the news recently.”

“Well get yourself a towel and another pot of tea, you’re gonna be a bit dehydrated.” Windy commented, downing the last of her tea, only to then smile at her friend. “And be prepared to be amazed! Cause there’s alot to see.”

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