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The tiny creature darted through the shadows, its whiskers twitching as it navigated the labyrinth of crumbling stone and rusted pipes. This was no ordinary mouse—its fur shimmered faintly under flickering neon lights, a side effect of the experimental waste coursing through the city’s underbelly. Survival here demanded cunning, and this mouse had learned to scavenge more than crumbs. It avoided patrol drones with uncanny precision, slipping into hidden vents to steal data chips from unsuspecting engineers. Tonight, it paused at the edge of a dormant server farm, nose quivering at the scent of overheating circuits. Something hummed beneath the floor—a frequency that made its claws tingle. The mouse crept closer, unaware that its next nibble would unravel a conspiracy even the city’s overlords hadn’t anticipated.
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Preheat the oven and line a muffin tin with vibrant paper liners. Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy, then crack in fresh eggs one by one, blending until smooth. Fold sifted flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into the mix, alternating with splashes of creamy milk. Add vanilla extract for warmth—or swap in citrus zest for a tangy twist. Spoon the velvety batter into each liner, filling them two-thirds full to leave room for rising. Slide the tray into the oven and bake until the tops spring back when gently pressed, golden edges peeking through. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack—patience prevents frosting meltdowns. Whip up a glossy buttercream, tint it with bold food coloring, and swirl it generously over each treat. Top with sprinkles, edible glitter, or delicate fondant shapes for flair. Arrange them on a patterned platter, light a candle for your mom, and serve with laughter. Share the sweetness—they’ll taste like love baked into every bite.
