A Tale of Two Assistantsby MylittleponyfanChaptersWho is Derek?Spike's QuestMeet DerekWho is Derek?It all starts one fine morning in the Golden Oak Library. Spike is cleaning upstairs, looking in old boxes, when he gets to the last one. "Oh yeah! Last box!", he says. Spike opens the lid and starts to pull things out. "Lots of old junk in here," says Spike. Spike pulls out an old rattle Twilight had as a filly, which he surprisingly remembers playing with a while back. "Twilight's old rattle," he mutters while taking a look at it and shaking it. Spike then puts the rattle down and continues to make tow piles, one for trash and one with almost all of the contents to ask Twilight about. Finally, Spike reaches the bottom and sees a scrap of paper. "What's this?", he wonders out loud. He did not think he would find a little piece of paper at the very end of this box. Spike picks it up and turns it over, coming face to face with a young light purple dragon smiling widely at him. "Aah!", Spike yells, startled. He was not at all expecting there to be a dragon on the front picture looking right at him in the face. He drops the picture in shock at how much the dragon looks just like him, albeit a slightly longer nose and a longer, thinner face. He scans the picture and finds a pencil marking on the bottom saying, "Derek." Spike continues to stare at the picture in his claws for a few minutes before shaking his head and standing up. "I need to ask Twilight about this," he declares, wanting to know once and for all exactly who this dragon is. Spike walks down the steps, finding Twilight re-organizing all of the books. "Hey, Twilight," Spike greeted. "Hey, Spike. What's up?", says Twilight. "Well, I was wondering who this is," Spike says. "Who's who?", Twilight asks. Spike walks over to Twilight and shows her the picture. Twilight sets down the book she is holding and takes the picture with her magic. "Oh, that's Derek," Twilight says, immediately recognizing the dragon in the picture. "Yeah, I figured that out," retorts Spike, raising an eyebrow. "But who exactly is he and why does he look like me?" Twilight continues to look at the picture, smiling and a bit of sadness in her eyes. She must have known this dragon sometime ago. "He was my assistant when I was a filly. And I mean even before you. My parents found him when I was about 3 and I just kind of grew up with him always helping me," Twilight explains to Spike. "Oh," says Spike. He is shocked to hear that there was ever another dragon who was first before himself. This whole entire time, he had been thinking he was her first. Since Derek is first, this would mean that Spike was really her #2 assistant all along this whole time. Now upon hearing this news, Spike no longer feels so special. "What happened to him?", Spike asks Twilight. Twilight's smile fades as she sets the picture down and looks at Spike. She explains, "He eventually moved away when I hatched you because I guess he felt like he'd be replaced, just like when you thought Owlowiscious would replace you." Spike looks up at Twilight, starting to see tears in her eyes. He begins to regret asking her about Derek. Seeing Twilight upset is one of the worst things he could possibly see. Plus, he did not think she would start crying. "Oh. I'm sorry. I didn't know," Spike apologizes. Twilight wipes away her tears and wraps her hooves around Spike, pulling him into a warm hug. She smiles sadly. "It's all right, Spike. I'm just glad I have you." Twilight rests her chin on Spike's head. Spike pats her hoof gently in a comforting manner. "I'm sorry he left. He missed out on a lot of great times," says Spike. Twilight chuckles, already starting to feel her sadness subside. After a few minutes, Spike pulls away slowly and looks up at Twilight. "So you haven't seen him for a long time?", Spike asks, feeling slightly intrigued about Derek. Twilight brings Spike into a hug again and nods. "Yeah. He just up and left without saying goodbye." Twilight starts silently crying again, really missing Derek. When Spike feels Twilight's tears drip onto him and hears her sniffling, he becomes a little angry and determined. He hates seeing Twilight upset and will willingly do anything to make her feel ten times a whole lot better. He wipes Twilight's tears away. "Would you feel better if he came back?", Spike asks Twilight. She gives a small nod and says, "Yeah, but he has his own life now and it's his choice if he wants to come back or not." Spike gives a sad frown, having thought for sure that Twilight would have agreed. "Okay, Twilight," Spike simply said, making the wise decision to just end the discussion then and there. Twilight sniffles and lets go of Spike, putting on a fake smile. "Well, I better get back to these books. They can't organize themselves," she says, turning around and going back to the books. Suddenly, Spike gets an idea. "Okay, Twilight. I'll just... go out and... get some fresh air," Spike says nonchalantly. He immediately walks outside, determination filled in his heart. "Don't you worry, Twilight! I shall go to the ends of the Earth to find Derek and get him to come back, just to make you happy again!" On the last part, Spike lifts his head up to the skies and his voice echoes. He is going to do anything it takes to find Twilight's long-lost assistant bring him back to her, even if it means getting lost or going missing for many long days. Despite the fact that he himself is her second best assistant, Spike would do whatever it takes to cheer up Twilight by bringing back with him her original assistant and adoptive son: Derek. Spike's QuestTwilight has just finished reorganizing the books in the library. She begins to wonder where Spike is as he has been gone for a long time. "I wonder where Spike wandered off to. I hope he didn't get distracted by gems or anything again. Maybe he's taking a nap in the shade," says Twilight. Suddenly, there is a loud knocking on the door. "Well now, who could that be?", Twilight asks herself out loud. Twilight opens the door and in a moment's flash, Pinkie Pie pins her to the ground in a flying tackle, making her groan. "Ohhh... shoulda seen that comin'!", says Twilight. "Hey, Twilight, how come you never told us there was another Dragon Migration going on?", Pinkie asks. Confused, Twilight raises an eyebrow. "Huh?", Twilight says. Rarity and Rainbow Dash walk in to help Twilight up. "We saw him walkin' out of Ponyville with a knapsack on his shoulder," says Rainbow Dash. "Again. We thought he was trying to find more dragons or something," says Rarity. "Noooo...? The migration only happens at a certain time and now would not be that time,", Twilight tells them. "You did not have a disagreement or anything, did you?", Rarity asks, a little concerned. "Of course not!", says Twilight. "Is he on an errand? Somethin' personal?", asks Rainbow Dash. "He didn't tell me anything about an errand. Which is weird because he usually does tell me," replies Twilight. "Is there any circumstance that you could think of where he would not?", Rarity asks Twilight. Twilight begins to think for a moment. "Only if it was something he thought was of utmost importance and wanted to do something for me. But I don't know," says Twilight. Suddenly, Twilight's ears shoot up in realization that Spike has gone off to find Derek. "Oh, no." Twilight looks over to where she set down the picture of Derek and then uses her magic to levitate it over. "Who's that, Twilight?", asks Pinkie Pie. Twilight explains to her friends, "This is Derek. He was my assistant in Canterlot when I was a filly. Long before Spike came around." "Aww! He looks just like the little guy!", says Rainbow Dash. "Yes. The resemblance is quite uncanny," Rarity agrees. "I think Derek may have taken that a bit to heart. He must've thought he was being replaced. He just left without saying goodbye," Twilight tells them. Rarity puts her hoof on Twilight's shoulder in a comforting manner. "Oh, Twilight. I am so sorry," Rarity sincerely apologizes. "I think I got it!", exclaims Pinkie. The others look to her. "Got what?", asks Rainbow Dash. "Spike must've gone off to find Derek and get him to come back to Twilight!", announces Pinkie. Rarity chuckles nervously. "He would not-- he would not do that," Rarity says. "Wow. You ignore him that much?", comments Pinkie. Rarity gets offended and exclaims, "Ignore him?! What do you mean?!" Startled, Pinkie raises her eyebrows and quickly says, "Nothing!". Pinkie glances at Twilight. Twilight hides a smirk before becoming instantly serious. "I think Pinkie's right. He must've gone off to find Derek and see if he can't convince him to come back!", proclaims Twilight. "Honestly, I'm not that surprised. Spike will do anything to make you happy," admits Rainbow Dash. "I know. And for the first time in a long time, that's what I'm worried about," says Twilight. "Then we should go and find him!", says Rarity. "Right! But first, we should see if Applejack and Fluttershy will come with us!", says Twilight. Pinkie is bolting out the door and shouts in a sing-song voice, "Last one to Applejack's is a rotten apple!" The others shake their heads, chuckle, and run after her. Meanwhile, Spike arrives in Canterlot, having turned back around the edge of town to catch the train. He walks through the kingdom to the castle, where the guards recognize him and let him through. He makes his way to the castle, where he comes across an older unicorn stallion wearing a dark blue jacket and silver glasses with a short, thick beard. "Well, slap a saddle on me and call me a racehorse! Ain't your name Spike?", the stallion says. "Y-- yeah, but... how did you know?", says Spike, a bit surprised. The stallion explains, "Well, for one thing, you've been famous ever since you saved the Crystal Heart in the Crystal Empire. But I never can forget the helper of lil' ol' Twilight Sparkle!" Spike's eye widen. "You knew Twilight?!" "Sure did! I was one of her counselors when she was workin' on her magic and stuff growin' up!" Spike says, "Well, if you knew her as a filly, maybe you can tell me about her previous assistant? Kinda looks like me, but bigger? His name is..." "Derek," they both finish at once. "You knew him too?", asks Spike. "Yeah," the stallion replies, "Big fella just left one day, not hardly a word to anypony. Come to think of it, that was the day you hatched, I do think." "Yeah. I found a picture of him in Twilight's library and she told me the story. I don't suppose you could tell me--" "Why he left? Sorry, little one, no can do. But I would guess Princess Celestia would know. That's why you came here, isn't it?" "Yeah, sir." "Well, don't let me stop you from finding answers! Let me show you in! I got special access to the castle, too, y'know!", the stallion announces. The stallion winks and he and Spike walk into the castle together. Eventually, they reach the throne room, which is actually empty. "Huh. The princesses must be out and about in the kingdom somewhere. Sorry, kid, I thought they'd be here!", said the stallion, dumbfounded. "Oh, it's all right, sir! I may not have been here awhile, but I know my way around well enough to find them from here. Thanks for walkin' me in though!", says Spike. "Oh, my pleasure, Spike! Good luck with your search for answers!", the stallion calls out. "Okay!", Spike calls back. The stallion leaves and Spike makes his way throughout the castle. Eventually, he finds the old library where he and Twilight worked and lived. "Ah, good ol' memories. This is where Twilight and I first got word to go to Ponyville!", says Spike. A voice suddenly said, "I remember that letter! She still worries too much sometimes, right?" Startled, Spike jumps and turns around. Celestia is walking up the staircase to meet him. "Princess Celestia!" Spike bows in respect. "Oh, come, now, Spike. You do not need to be so formal when we are alone. Especially not in here, where you used to work," says Celestia. Spike stands up straight and says, "Okay. Um... I was wonderin' if you could tell me somethin'." "And this "something" is important enough for you to come to me all by yourself? Must be urgent!" "It's... it's about... Derek." Celestia's eyebrows raise and then lower in sadness. "How about we sit down? This may be awhile." Spike and Celestia sit down. Celestia begins to explain to Spike, "You see, Twilight had Derek since she was about 3 years old." As she tells the story, there is a flashback of Twilight as an infant and wearing a diaper. Her parents bring in an egg and set it down. Twilight stares at the egg, which starts to crack. The egg hatches and reveals Derek as an infant. He yawns, releasing some green fire. At first, Twilight is shocked, but then becomes amused as she giggles. Then Twilight and Derek begin to play as Twilight's parents happily watch them. Celestia narrates the story. "Those two got along well. Derek has helped Twilight when she was in need." Twilight tries to put a book on a shelf with the others. However, due to it being too high for her, she falls and drops the book. Derek comes along, takes the book, and stands on Twilight while putting the book on the shelf. Grateful, Twilight smiles and she hugs Derek, who hugs her back. Then they both start tickling each other, falling on the floor and laughing. "Then, by the time Twilight was an older filly, that was when you were born." In the flashback, Twilight is an older filly, admiring an infant Spike. A young Derek (who is around Spike's current age) is peeking at the entrance of Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. Feeling left out, Derek gets tears in his eyes and leaves. "And that was when he ran away for good." Derek walks off by himself, carrying a knapsack. Young Twilight stops him. "Derek! Wait! Where are you going?!" "Away. Forever." "Why?!" "You probably don't need me anyway." Derek sniffles and lets a tear fall from his eye. He leaves and Twilight sadly watches him for a moment before going back inside. Back to reality, Celestia is feeling a bit sad. She sighs and Spike says, "Wow. So he never came back again?" "I am afraid not," says Celestia. Spike puts a hand to his chin, thinking. Then he looks back up to Celestia and asks her, "Do you have any clue where Derek could've gone?" Celestia furrows her eyebrows and tries to remember. Her eyebrows rise slightly. "Actually, I do believe Derek wanted to join the Great Dragon Migration at one point. It seemed to be more of a desire since he never got the chance to even try to do so. He could have decided to go and find others of his own kind though." Spike smiles and says, "Thank you, Princess Celestia. I think I know where I can find Derek." Celestia smiles as Spike walks out of the room and calls out to him, "Good luck, Spike!" Spike ventures across mountains, rivers, and forests. Finally, he arrives at the volcanic area that the dragons have migrated to. "Okay. Derek must be here." Quickly, Spike runs up a hill and, upon climbing up to the top, sees a bunch of dragons. "Right. Where are you, Derek?" Spike runs down the hill to find Derek. "Derek? Derek?" Spike makes his way through the other dragons. "Excuse me. Pardon me. Derek?" Spike looks around, but Derek is not there. "Hmm. Not here." Spike leaves and climbs up another hill with other dragons in there. "Derek?" Spike looks around, but still doesn't find Derek. Instead, the dragons turn to look at him. Upon noticing this, Spike becomes a bit scared. "Oh, uh, excuse me. I came to the wrong section." Quickly, Spike leaves before any of the dragons could hurt him. Spike climbs up another hill and peeks in before he gets in and widens his eyes, upon noticing a giant dragon that looks like his giant version from "Secret of My Excess," the exception being that he has wings. "D-- Derek?" Hearing Spike's voice, the dragon perks up and turns toward his direction. "Who are you, little guy? What are you doin' here?" "You're... Derek?!", says Spike, surprised. "Yeah. Why?" Spike begins to stammer. "Well, I-- I-- I was lookin' a-- all over for you!" "Well, what do you need me for?" "I need you to come with me! I'm takin' you back to Ponyville so you can reunite with Twilight Sparkle!" Hearing her name, Derek's eyebrows raise. "Twilight Sparkle?" "Yeah, you know, Twilight. You were her #1 assistant, I just recently found out." As Spike says the last sentence, he begins to look sad as he no longer feels special. Derek furrows his eyebrows as if he is trying to remember something. "Wait a minute. You look familiar." Derek's eyes widen. "You... you are Spike, aren't you? The dragon who replaced me as Twilight's #1 assistant?" Spike nods, still looking a bit sad. "Yeah, that's me, all right. I'm sorry I made you feel like you weren't needed. I never knew." Derek's facial expression softens. "Aw, it is okay, little guy. You could not have known. You were only an infant back then." Derek looks off to the side thoughtfully. "Hmm. Maybe Twilight did not know either." Suddenly, Derek becomes sad and lets out a sigh. "Oh, what have I done? Twilight must have been devastated when I left." "Yeah. She really misses you. She actually wants to see you," says Spike. Derek's eyebrows raise in surprise and looks at Spike with a smile. "Really?" Spike nods. Derek crawls a little closer to Spike. "Spike, are you and Twilight still living in Canterlot?", he asks. "No. We moved to a town called Ponyville years ago," Spike answers. Derek nods and opens one of his mighty claws in front of Spike, who raises an eyebrow. "Come on, Spike. It is time I see Twilight again and maybe make things right." Spike grins and jumps onto Derek's claw. Derek lifts Spike and safely sets him on his head. Then Derek spreads his wings, runs out of the cave, and, with a flap of his large wings, takes flight. Spike is cheering that he finally got Derek back. "Yeah! My mission is complete!", Spike exclaims. Derek smiles at Spike, "Good for you, buddy." Meet DerekThe Mane 6 are sitting around the library. They have been looking for Spike, but they have stopped and decided to rest for the moment. Each one of them are looking discouraged. "I can't believe after all the searching we did, we still couldn't find Spike," says Twilight. "Oh, this is the worst possible thing to happen. Our little Spikey-Wikey is gone," Rarity says dramatically. "Now don't you guys think negative like that. I'm sure Spike will come back. He'd never abandon us, especially Twilight," Applejack reassures. Rainbow Dash smiles and flies up in the air, "Applejack's right. We just have to not give up hope!" Fluttershy smiles as well, "I agree. I'm sure Spike will come back when he's ready." Pinkie is looking out the window and grins, "Hey! He's coming back!" Pinkie turns to the girls and points out the window, "And he's flying on a giant dragon!" "What?!", exclaim Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. "Yeah!", says Pinkie. The Mane 6 run out the door and look up to see Spike flying on Derek. Their jaws drop in awe. Derek lands gently and bends down to let Spike get off. "Spike!", the Mane 6 cheer in excitement. Everypony smothers Spike in a big bear hug. They let go and Twilight nuzzles his cheek. "I'm so glad you're back!", Twilight says to Spike. Then she lets him go and looks him in the eyes. "But what were you thinking, running off like that? I thought you learned your lesson last time!" "Yeah! You had us worried half to death about you!", Applejack chimes in. "I'm sorry, everypony. I should've told you before I left," says Spike. Spike looks up with a hopeful smile and gestures to Derek. "But Twilight, I did it! I found Derek!" Derek waves and says, "Hi, Twilight." Twilight looks up at Derek for a few moments before gasping in realization. "Oh, my, gosh! Derek! It really is you!" Twilight runs up to Derek and they share a heartfelt hug. They both have tears of joy in their eyes. "It is good to see you, too, Twilight," says Derek. Twilight looks up at Derek with a smile, "I thought I'd never see you again." Suddenly, Derek has a regretful look on his face. "I am so sorry for runnin' away, Twilight. I thought you had replaced me. I never even considered that you did not know how I felt." Twilight frowns a bit, "I'm sorry for that, too, Derek. I should've known you were feeling neglected." Twilight smiles, "So can you ever forgive me?" Derek smiles as well, "Only if you forgive me." Twilight chuckles and hugs Derek once more, "Deal." "And Derek, please meet the rest of the Mane 6!", says Spike and he points to Rainbow Dash. "This is Rainbow Dash." Rainbow Dash flies up to Derek and shakes his hand. "How ya doin'?" "Wonderful," says Derek. "Fluttershy," says Spike. Being shy and a little scared, Fluttershy is hesitant to shake Derek's hand. "Um... um..." "Come on, do not be shy," Derek kindly smiles. Slowly, Fluttershy brings her hoof to Derek's hand and he shakes Fluttershy's hoof. "See? Not that hard." "Pinkie Pie," says Spike. "Yeah? Oh! Okay!" Immediately, Pinkie shakes Derek's hand rapidly. "Hi!" "Whoa! That is a big handshake," Derek chuckles. "Thank you!", grins Pinkie. "Sure," says Derek. "Rarity," says Spike. Rarity shakes Derek's hand. "Hello, darling." "Hi. You are pretty nice," says Derek. In response, Rarity smiles. Spike whispers in Derek's ear, "Yeah, but don't fall in love with her." Derek chuckles, "Whatever you say, Spike." "And Applejack," concludes Spike. Once Derek looks at Applejack, he freezes in a love struck trance. Applejack looks back at him and smiles. She approaches Derek and shakes his hand, but he is still in a trance. "Hello...", Applejack says Derek's name in a romantic voice, "Derek." "Hello, Applejack." Applejack and Derek stare at each other briefly as love music plays. Suddenly, Spike interrupts, "Okay, Derek! That's enough! You're gettin' too outta hand!" "Oh. Sorry, Spike," says Derek. "It's fine. Just calm down," says Spike. "Hey, Derek, do you wanna stay in town for a day or two? There's so much catching up to do! Come on! Please?", asks Twilight. Derek thinks for a few seconds and smiles at Twilight, "Well, I guess I can stay for a while longer." Derek gives a glance to Applejack. "Who knows? Maybe I will meet somepony I really like." Nopony except Spike notices when Derek winks at Applejack. Applejack blushes bright pink and smiles a bit before hiding her face with her hat. Spike looks at Applejack suspiciously. Fluttershy, who still looks a bit more shy than usual, looks up to Derek with a slightly nervous smile. "Oh, Derek, you're going to need a place to stay during your visit," says Fluttershy. Twilight nods and says, "Maybe you could stay with me and we could finally talk personally." Derek looks in Applejack's direction for a second more before nodding to Twilight. "Oh, uh, yeah, Twilight. That sounds great." "Well, Twilight, I gotta go. The weather doesn't control itself, ya know," says Rainbow Dash. "I think weather does, does it not?", asks Derek. "Not if I control it," says Rainbow. Derek raises an eyebrow, "I am pretty sure it does." Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes, "Yeah, sure. Well, so long!" Rainbow Dash flies off. "I also have to leave, darling. I have a couple of dress orders that need to be filled as soon as possible," says Rarity. "Yeah, I gotta go, too! Mr. and Mrs. Cake should be expecting me back at any minute!", says Pinkie. "And my animals might need some care," says Fluttershy. Applejack peeks from underneath her hat, "Oh, and I, uh, have to go and buck... apples." Twilight raises an eyebrow at Applejack before smiling. "Well, I guess this is goodbye for now, girls!" Derek looks at Applejack and says, "Yeah. I hope to see you all again real soon." Applejack giggles a bit before clearing her throat to try to hide her feelings for Derek. Spike raises an eyebrow at Applejack. The Mane 6 say their goodbyes and leave. Spike notices Derek watching Applejack from behind as she walks past him. "Wow!", says Derek. Applejack hears Derek and giggles quietly to herself. Spike walks towards Twilight and whispers to her, "Hey, Twilight? Did you notice anything... weird about Applejack and Derek?" Twilight thinks for a few seconds and whispers back, "Well, Applejack was kind of acting strange after they shook hands. She almost seemed nervous. And Derek was looking at her almost constantly." Spike hesitates and asks, "Do you think maybe...?" Twilight is confused for a second before raising her eyebrows in realization, "Oh. Oh! Uh, I don't know if they're... like that, Spike. I mean, they just met. It's not like it was love at first sight or anything." Twilight walks away towards Derek. Spike seems to be thinking deeply and says, "Hmm. Somethin's goin' on between those two. I just know it." Back at the Golden Oak Library, Twilight and Derek are approaching the entrance. "Well, Derek, here we are at the Golden Oak Library. Me and Spike live here now," says Twilight. "Hmm. Neat place," compliments Derek. "Thanks." "You are welcome." "Well, let's go in." Twilight begins to walk in when Derek stops her. "Uh, Twilight?" "Yeah?" "I think I might be a bit too big to go in. Would you mind doing something about it?" "Oh, sure." Twilight uses her magic to make Derek a bit smaller, but still big enough to fit. "There. Now we can go in." "Right behind ya!" Twilight and Derek walk in. She says, "So Derek, how were things going when you were hibernating?" "Meh, it was okay. Though there were these teenage dragons who were mean to me. One of them was named Garble, I think. But that was the only problem," says Derek. "Ah, I remember those dragons. I believe they were the same ones who bullied Spike," says Twilight. "Oh, really?" "Yeah." "That is too bad. So how are you?" "Good. Good. Just earlier today, I was organizing some books when Spike came up to me and showed me a picture of you when you were little. He asked me about it, so I told him the story and I said that even though I wanted you back, it was your choice. Then I went back to work and Spike went to get you," says Twilight. "Hmm. But now, everything is fine since I am here!", Derek grins. "Oh, yes," says Twilight and she hugs Derek, who hugs her back. "So how's about you show me around Ponyville and we meet everypony in town?", Derek suggests. "Of course. Come on." Twilight and Derek walk out of the Golden Oak Library. Later, Twilight and Derek are walking in Ponyville, having already met everypony. "Well, Twilight, I had a fun time meetin' everypony in town!", says Derek. "Yeah. It was pretty cool, huh?", replies Twilight. "You bet!", agrees Derek. Twilight remembers something, "Oh! I just remembered! Have you met the Cutie Mark Crusaders?" "Who?", asks Derek. "The Cutie Mark Crusaders. Three fillies named Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo." "Oh. No, I have not met them yet. But I would love to!", says Derek. "All right!", says Twilight. Then she and Derek notice the Cutie Mark Crusaders laughing and playing ball on an open field. "Looks like fun! Let us go see 'em!", says Derek. Excited, he pulls Twilight by the hoof while running over to the field. "Whoa!", says Twilight. The Cutie Mark Crusaders are hitting a ball back and forth, giggling. Scootaloo hits the ball to Apple Bloom. "Catch, Apple Bloom!" Apple Bloom hits the ball back to Scootaloo. Just then, Twilight and Derek arrive. Apple Bloom's eyes widen when she sees Derek. She says, "Wow! Another dragon!" Scootaloo looks away from the ball in curiosity, "Dragon? Where?" Just then, the ball hits Scootaloo upside the head. "Ow!" The ball bounces and lands at Derek's feet. Derek picks up the ball and chuckles a little. "Hey, are you okay?", asks Derek. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo look towards Derek in awe. "Oh, my gosh!", says Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo grins and flutters her wings in excitement, "A dragon? Awesome!" Twilight laughs in amusement at the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She points to each one of them as she introduces them to Derek, "Derek, these are the Cutie Mark Crusaders: Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. Girls, this is Derek. He's an old friend of mine." Derek smiles and waves, "Hey there." Apple Bloom walks up to Derek with a friendly smile. "Mr. Derek, would you like to play catch with us?" Derek grins, "Sure. I would love to. And please, just call me Derek." "Okay," Apple Bloom smiles. Twilight smiles and watches happily as Derek joins in the Cutie Mark Crusaders' game and has fun. "Here, Derek! Catch!", Sweetie Belle calls out to him. She hits the ball to Derek, who hits it with his tail. "Heads up, Scootaloo!", calls Derek. Scootaloo hits the ball to Apple Bloom. They hit the ball back and forth. "This is sweet to see you guys are getting along," says Twilight. A little while later, the sun is going down slowly. "Well, girls, as much as we'd love to stay, the sun should be setting in a while," says Twilight. "Awww!", the Crusaders complain. "Mr. De-- I mean, Derek, would you like to come play with us tomorrow?", asks Sweetie Belle. "Yeah! And you could even come see our clubhouse! It's near Sweet Apple Acres!", says Scootaloo. Derek grins and says, "Sounds fun! I will be sure to come over tomorrow! See ya then!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders wave as Twilight and Derek start on their way back to the Golden Oak Library. "Bye, Derek! See ya tomorrow!", says Apple Bloom. Derek waves back and turns to Twilight. "Those three are really nice." "They really are," Twilight agrees. "Yeah. Me and them, we are so awesome," says Derek. Twilight chuckles and they walk the rest of the way in peace.
Who is Derek?It all starts one fine morning in the Golden Oak Library. Spike is cleaning upstairs, looking in old boxes, when he gets to the last one. "Oh yeah! Last box!", he says. Spike opens the lid and starts to pull things out. "Lots of old junk in here," says Spike. Spike pulls out an old rattle Twilight had as a filly, which he surprisingly remembers playing with a while back. "Twilight's old rattle," he mutters while taking a look at it and shaking it. Spike then puts the rattle down and continues to make tow piles, one for trash and one with almost all of the contents to ask Twilight about. Finally, Spike reaches the bottom and sees a scrap of paper. "What's this?", he wonders out loud. He did not think he would find a little piece of paper at the very end of this box. Spike picks it up and turns it over, coming face to face with a young light purple dragon smiling widely at him. "Aah!", Spike yells, startled. He was not at all expecting there to be a dragon on the front picture looking right at him in the face. He drops the picture in shock at how much the dragon looks just like him, albeit a slightly longer nose and a longer, thinner face. He scans the picture and finds a pencil marking on the bottom saying, "Derek." Spike continues to stare at the picture in his claws for a few minutes before shaking his head and standing up. "I need to ask Twilight about this," he declares, wanting to know once and for all exactly who this dragon is. Spike walks down the steps, finding Twilight re-organizing all of the books. "Hey, Twilight," Spike greeted. "Hey, Spike. What's up?", says Twilight. "Well, I was wondering who this is," Spike says. "Who's who?", Twilight asks. Spike walks over to Twilight and shows her the picture. Twilight sets down the book she is holding and takes the picture with her magic. "Oh, that's Derek," Twilight says, immediately recognizing the dragon in the picture. "Yeah, I figured that out," retorts Spike, raising an eyebrow. "But who exactly is he and why does he look like me?" Twilight continues to look at the picture, smiling and a bit of sadness in her eyes. She must have known this dragon sometime ago. "He was my assistant when I was a filly. And I mean even before you. My parents found him when I was about 3 and I just kind of grew up with him always helping me," Twilight explains to Spike. "Oh," says Spike. He is shocked to hear that there was ever another dragon who was first before himself. This whole entire time, he had been thinking he was her first. Since Derek is first, this would mean that Spike was really her #2 assistant all along this whole time. Now upon hearing this news, Spike no longer feels so special. "What happened to him?", Spike asks Twilight. Twilight's smile fades as she sets the picture down and looks at Spike. She explains, "He eventually moved away when I hatched you because I guess he felt like he'd be replaced, just like when you thought Owlowiscious would replace you." Spike looks up at Twilight, starting to see tears in her eyes. He begins to regret asking her about Derek. Seeing Twilight upset is one of the worst things he could possibly see. Plus, he did not think she would start crying. "Oh. I'm sorry. I didn't know," Spike apologizes. Twilight wipes away her tears and wraps her hooves around Spike, pulling him into a warm hug. She smiles sadly. "It's all right, Spike. I'm just glad I have you." Twilight rests her chin on Spike's head. Spike pats her hoof gently in a comforting manner. "I'm sorry he left. He missed out on a lot of great times," says Spike. Twilight chuckles, already starting to feel her sadness subside. After a few minutes, Spike pulls away slowly and looks up at Twilight. "So you haven't seen him for a long time?", Spike asks, feeling slightly intrigued about Derek. Twilight brings Spike into a hug again and nods. "Yeah. He just up and left without saying goodbye." Twilight starts silently crying again, really missing Derek. When Spike feels Twilight's tears drip onto him and hears her sniffling, he becomes a little angry and determined. He hates seeing Twilight upset and will willingly do anything to make her feel ten times a whole lot better. He wipes Twilight's tears away. "Would you feel better if he came back?", Spike asks Twilight. She gives a small nod and says, "Yeah, but he has his own life now and it's his choice if he wants to come back or not." Spike gives a sad frown, having thought for sure that Twilight would have agreed. "Okay, Twilight," Spike simply said, making the wise decision to just end the discussion then and there. Twilight sniffles and lets go of Spike, putting on a fake smile. "Well, I better get back to these books. They can't organize themselves," she says, turning around and going back to the books. Suddenly, Spike gets an idea. "Okay, Twilight. I'll just... go out and... get some fresh air," Spike says nonchalantly. He immediately walks outside, determination filled in his heart. "Don't you worry, Twilight! I shall go to the ends of the Earth to find Derek and get him to come back, just to make you happy again!" On the last part, Spike lifts his head up to the skies and his voice echoes. He is going to do anything it takes to find Twilight's long-lost assistant bring him back to her, even if it means getting lost or going missing for many long days. Despite the fact that he himself is her second best assistant, Spike would do whatever it takes to cheer up Twilight by bringing back with him her original assistant and adoptive son: Derek.
Spike's QuestTwilight has just finished reorganizing the books in the library. She begins to wonder where Spike is as he has been gone for a long time. "I wonder where Spike wandered off to. I hope he didn't get distracted by gems or anything again. Maybe he's taking a nap in the shade," says Twilight. Suddenly, there is a loud knocking on the door. "Well now, who could that be?", Twilight asks herself out loud. Twilight opens the door and in a moment's flash, Pinkie Pie pins her to the ground in a flying tackle, making her groan. "Ohhh... shoulda seen that comin'!", says Twilight. "Hey, Twilight, how come you never told us there was another Dragon Migration going on?", Pinkie asks. Confused, Twilight raises an eyebrow. "Huh?", Twilight says. Rarity and Rainbow Dash walk in to help Twilight up. "We saw him walkin' out of Ponyville with a knapsack on his shoulder," says Rainbow Dash. "Again. We thought he was trying to find more dragons or something," says Rarity. "Noooo...? The migration only happens at a certain time and now would not be that time,", Twilight tells them. "You did not have a disagreement or anything, did you?", Rarity asks, a little concerned. "Of course not!", says Twilight. "Is he on an errand? Somethin' personal?", asks Rainbow Dash. "He didn't tell me anything about an errand. Which is weird because he usually does tell me," replies Twilight. "Is there any circumstance that you could think of where he would not?", Rarity asks Twilight. Twilight begins to think for a moment. "Only if it was something he thought was of utmost importance and wanted to do something for me. But I don't know," says Twilight. Suddenly, Twilight's ears shoot up in realization that Spike has gone off to find Derek. "Oh, no." Twilight looks over to where she set down the picture of Derek and then uses her magic to levitate it over. "Who's that, Twilight?", asks Pinkie Pie. Twilight explains to her friends, "This is Derek. He was my assistant in Canterlot when I was a filly. Long before Spike came around." "Aww! He looks just like the little guy!", says Rainbow Dash. "Yes. The resemblance is quite uncanny," Rarity agrees. "I think Derek may have taken that a bit to heart. He must've thought he was being replaced. He just left without saying goodbye," Twilight tells them. Rarity puts her hoof on Twilight's shoulder in a comforting manner. "Oh, Twilight. I am so sorry," Rarity sincerely apologizes. "I think I got it!", exclaims Pinkie. The others look to her. "Got what?", asks Rainbow Dash. "Spike must've gone off to find Derek and get him to come back to Twilight!", announces Pinkie. Rarity chuckles nervously. "He would not-- he would not do that," Rarity says. "Wow. You ignore him that much?", comments Pinkie. Rarity gets offended and exclaims, "Ignore him?! What do you mean?!" Startled, Pinkie raises her eyebrows and quickly says, "Nothing!". Pinkie glances at Twilight. Twilight hides a smirk before becoming instantly serious. "I think Pinkie's right. He must've gone off to find Derek and see if he can't convince him to come back!", proclaims Twilight. "Honestly, I'm not that surprised. Spike will do anything to make you happy," admits Rainbow Dash. "I know. And for the first time in a long time, that's what I'm worried about," says Twilight. "Then we should go and find him!", says Rarity. "Right! But first, we should see if Applejack and Fluttershy will come with us!", says Twilight. Pinkie is bolting out the door and shouts in a sing-song voice, "Last one to Applejack's is a rotten apple!" The others shake their heads, chuckle, and run after her. Meanwhile, Spike arrives in Canterlot, having turned back around the edge of town to catch the train. He walks through the kingdom to the castle, where the guards recognize him and let him through. He makes his way to the castle, where he comes across an older unicorn stallion wearing a dark blue jacket and silver glasses with a short, thick beard. "Well, slap a saddle on me and call me a racehorse! Ain't your name Spike?", the stallion says. "Y-- yeah, but... how did you know?", says Spike, a bit surprised. The stallion explains, "Well, for one thing, you've been famous ever since you saved the Crystal Heart in the Crystal Empire. But I never can forget the helper of lil' ol' Twilight Sparkle!" Spike's eye widen. "You knew Twilight?!" "Sure did! I was one of her counselors when she was workin' on her magic and stuff growin' up!" Spike says, "Well, if you knew her as a filly, maybe you can tell me about her previous assistant? Kinda looks like me, but bigger? His name is..." "Derek," they both finish at once. "You knew him too?", asks Spike. "Yeah," the stallion replies, "Big fella just left one day, not hardly a word to anypony. Come to think of it, that was the day you hatched, I do think." "Yeah. I found a picture of him in Twilight's library and she told me the story. I don't suppose you could tell me--" "Why he left? Sorry, little one, no can do. But I would guess Princess Celestia would know. That's why you came here, isn't it?" "Yeah, sir." "Well, don't let me stop you from finding answers! Let me show you in! I got special access to the castle, too, y'know!", the stallion announces. The stallion winks and he and Spike walk into the castle together. Eventually, they reach the throne room, which is actually empty. "Huh. The princesses must be out and about in the kingdom somewhere. Sorry, kid, I thought they'd be here!", said the stallion, dumbfounded. "Oh, it's all right, sir! I may not have been here awhile, but I know my way around well enough to find them from here. Thanks for walkin' me in though!", says Spike. "Oh, my pleasure, Spike! Good luck with your search for answers!", the stallion calls out. "Okay!", Spike calls back. The stallion leaves and Spike makes his way throughout the castle. Eventually, he finds the old library where he and Twilight worked and lived. "Ah, good ol' memories. This is where Twilight and I first got word to go to Ponyville!", says Spike. A voice suddenly said, "I remember that letter! She still worries too much sometimes, right?" Startled, Spike jumps and turns around. Celestia is walking up the staircase to meet him. "Princess Celestia!" Spike bows in respect. "Oh, come, now, Spike. You do not need to be so formal when we are alone. Especially not in here, where you used to work," says Celestia. Spike stands up straight and says, "Okay. Um... I was wonderin' if you could tell me somethin'." "And this "something" is important enough for you to come to me all by yourself? Must be urgent!" "It's... it's about... Derek." Celestia's eyebrows raise and then lower in sadness. "How about we sit down? This may be awhile." Spike and Celestia sit down. Celestia begins to explain to Spike, "You see, Twilight had Derek since she was about 3 years old." As she tells the story, there is a flashback of Twilight as an infant and wearing a diaper. Her parents bring in an egg and set it down. Twilight stares at the egg, which starts to crack. The egg hatches and reveals Derek as an infant. He yawns, releasing some green fire. At first, Twilight is shocked, but then becomes amused as she giggles. Then Twilight and Derek begin to play as Twilight's parents happily watch them. Celestia narrates the story. "Those two got along well. Derek has helped Twilight when she was in need." Twilight tries to put a book on a shelf with the others. However, due to it being too high for her, she falls and drops the book. Derek comes along, takes the book, and stands on Twilight while putting the book on the shelf. Grateful, Twilight smiles and she hugs Derek, who hugs her back. Then they both start tickling each other, falling on the floor and laughing. "Then, by the time Twilight was an older filly, that was when you were born." In the flashback, Twilight is an older filly, admiring an infant Spike. A young Derek (who is around Spike's current age) is peeking at the entrance of Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. Feeling left out, Derek gets tears in his eyes and leaves. "And that was when he ran away for good." Derek walks off by himself, carrying a knapsack. Young Twilight stops him. "Derek! Wait! Where are you going?!" "Away. Forever." "Why?!" "You probably don't need me anyway." Derek sniffles and lets a tear fall from his eye. He leaves and Twilight sadly watches him for a moment before going back inside. Back to reality, Celestia is feeling a bit sad. She sighs and Spike says, "Wow. So he never came back again?" "I am afraid not," says Celestia. Spike puts a hand to his chin, thinking. Then he looks back up to Celestia and asks her, "Do you have any clue where Derek could've gone?" Celestia furrows her eyebrows and tries to remember. Her eyebrows rise slightly. "Actually, I do believe Derek wanted to join the Great Dragon Migration at one point. It seemed to be more of a desire since he never got the chance to even try to do so. He could have decided to go and find others of his own kind though." Spike smiles and says, "Thank you, Princess Celestia. I think I know where I can find Derek." Celestia smiles as Spike walks out of the room and calls out to him, "Good luck, Spike!" Spike ventures across mountains, rivers, and forests. Finally, he arrives at the volcanic area that the dragons have migrated to. "Okay. Derek must be here." Quickly, Spike runs up a hill and, upon climbing up to the top, sees a bunch of dragons. "Right. Where are you, Derek?" Spike runs down the hill to find Derek. "Derek? Derek?" Spike makes his way through the other dragons. "Excuse me. Pardon me. Derek?" Spike looks around, but Derek is not there. "Hmm. Not here." Spike leaves and climbs up another hill with other dragons in there. "Derek?" Spike looks around, but still doesn't find Derek. Instead, the dragons turn to look at him. Upon noticing this, Spike becomes a bit scared. "Oh, uh, excuse me. I came to the wrong section." Quickly, Spike leaves before any of the dragons could hurt him. Spike climbs up another hill and peeks in before he gets in and widens his eyes, upon noticing a giant dragon that looks like his giant version from "Secret of My Excess," the exception being that he has wings. "D-- Derek?" Hearing Spike's voice, the dragon perks up and turns toward his direction. "Who are you, little guy? What are you doin' here?" "You're... Derek?!", says Spike, surprised. "Yeah. Why?" Spike begins to stammer. "Well, I-- I-- I was lookin' a-- all over for you!" "Well, what do you need me for?" "I need you to come with me! I'm takin' you back to Ponyville so you can reunite with Twilight Sparkle!" Hearing her name, Derek's eyebrows raise. "Twilight Sparkle?" "Yeah, you know, Twilight. You were her #1 assistant, I just recently found out." As Spike says the last sentence, he begins to look sad as he no longer feels special. Derek furrows his eyebrows as if he is trying to remember something. "Wait a minute. You look familiar." Derek's eyes widen. "You... you are Spike, aren't you? The dragon who replaced me as Twilight's #1 assistant?" Spike nods, still looking a bit sad. "Yeah, that's me, all right. I'm sorry I made you feel like you weren't needed. I never knew." Derek's facial expression softens. "Aw, it is okay, little guy. You could not have known. You were only an infant back then." Derek looks off to the side thoughtfully. "Hmm. Maybe Twilight did not know either." Suddenly, Derek becomes sad and lets out a sigh. "Oh, what have I done? Twilight must have been devastated when I left." "Yeah. She really misses you. She actually wants to see you," says Spike. Derek's eyebrows raise in surprise and looks at Spike with a smile. "Really?" Spike nods. Derek crawls a little closer to Spike. "Spike, are you and Twilight still living in Canterlot?", he asks. "No. We moved to a town called Ponyville years ago," Spike answers. Derek nods and opens one of his mighty claws in front of Spike, who raises an eyebrow. "Come on, Spike. It is time I see Twilight again and maybe make things right." Spike grins and jumps onto Derek's claw. Derek lifts Spike and safely sets him on his head. Then Derek spreads his wings, runs out of the cave, and, with a flap of his large wings, takes flight. Spike is cheering that he finally got Derek back. "Yeah! My mission is complete!", Spike exclaims. Derek smiles at Spike, "Good for you, buddy."
Meet DerekThe Mane 6 are sitting around the library. They have been looking for Spike, but they have stopped and decided to rest for the moment. Each one of them are looking discouraged. "I can't believe after all the searching we did, we still couldn't find Spike," says Twilight. "Oh, this is the worst possible thing to happen. Our little Spikey-Wikey is gone," Rarity says dramatically. "Now don't you guys think negative like that. I'm sure Spike will come back. He'd never abandon us, especially Twilight," Applejack reassures. Rainbow Dash smiles and flies up in the air, "Applejack's right. We just have to not give up hope!" Fluttershy smiles as well, "I agree. I'm sure Spike will come back when he's ready." Pinkie is looking out the window and grins, "Hey! He's coming back!" Pinkie turns to the girls and points out the window, "And he's flying on a giant dragon!" "What?!", exclaim Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. "Yeah!", says Pinkie. The Mane 6 run out the door and look up to see Spike flying on Derek. Their jaws drop in awe. Derek lands gently and bends down to let Spike get off. "Spike!", the Mane 6 cheer in excitement. Everypony smothers Spike in a big bear hug. They let go and Twilight nuzzles his cheek. "I'm so glad you're back!", Twilight says to Spike. Then she lets him go and looks him in the eyes. "But what were you thinking, running off like that? I thought you learned your lesson last time!" "Yeah! You had us worried half to death about you!", Applejack chimes in. "I'm sorry, everypony. I should've told you before I left," says Spike. Spike looks up with a hopeful smile and gestures to Derek. "But Twilight, I did it! I found Derek!" Derek waves and says, "Hi, Twilight." Twilight looks up at Derek for a few moments before gasping in realization. "Oh, my, gosh! Derek! It really is you!" Twilight runs up to Derek and they share a heartfelt hug. They both have tears of joy in their eyes. "It is good to see you, too, Twilight," says Derek. Twilight looks up at Derek with a smile, "I thought I'd never see you again." Suddenly, Derek has a regretful look on his face. "I am so sorry for runnin' away, Twilight. I thought you had replaced me. I never even considered that you did not know how I felt." Twilight frowns a bit, "I'm sorry for that, too, Derek. I should've known you were feeling neglected." Twilight smiles, "So can you ever forgive me?" Derek smiles as well, "Only if you forgive me." Twilight chuckles and hugs Derek once more, "Deal." "And Derek, please meet the rest of the Mane 6!", says Spike and he points to Rainbow Dash. "This is Rainbow Dash." Rainbow Dash flies up to Derek and shakes his hand. "How ya doin'?" "Wonderful," says Derek. "Fluttershy," says Spike. Being shy and a little scared, Fluttershy is hesitant to shake Derek's hand. "Um... um..." "Come on, do not be shy," Derek kindly smiles. Slowly, Fluttershy brings her hoof to Derek's hand and he shakes Fluttershy's hoof. "See? Not that hard." "Pinkie Pie," says Spike. "Yeah? Oh! Okay!" Immediately, Pinkie shakes Derek's hand rapidly. "Hi!" "Whoa! That is a big handshake," Derek chuckles. "Thank you!", grins Pinkie. "Sure," says Derek. "Rarity," says Spike. Rarity shakes Derek's hand. "Hello, darling." "Hi. You are pretty nice," says Derek. In response, Rarity smiles. Spike whispers in Derek's ear, "Yeah, but don't fall in love with her." Derek chuckles, "Whatever you say, Spike." "And Applejack," concludes Spike. Once Derek looks at Applejack, he freezes in a love struck trance. Applejack looks back at him and smiles. She approaches Derek and shakes his hand, but he is still in a trance. "Hello...", Applejack says Derek's name in a romantic voice, "Derek." "Hello, Applejack." Applejack and Derek stare at each other briefly as love music plays. Suddenly, Spike interrupts, "Okay, Derek! That's enough! You're gettin' too outta hand!" "Oh. Sorry, Spike," says Derek. "It's fine. Just calm down," says Spike. "Hey, Derek, do you wanna stay in town for a day or two? There's so much catching up to do! Come on! Please?", asks Twilight. Derek thinks for a few seconds and smiles at Twilight, "Well, I guess I can stay for a while longer." Derek gives a glance to Applejack. "Who knows? Maybe I will meet somepony I really like." Nopony except Spike notices when Derek winks at Applejack. Applejack blushes bright pink and smiles a bit before hiding her face with her hat. Spike looks at Applejack suspiciously. Fluttershy, who still looks a bit more shy than usual, looks up to Derek with a slightly nervous smile. "Oh, Derek, you're going to need a place to stay during your visit," says Fluttershy. Twilight nods and says, "Maybe you could stay with me and we could finally talk personally." Derek looks in Applejack's direction for a second more before nodding to Twilight. "Oh, uh, yeah, Twilight. That sounds great." "Well, Twilight, I gotta go. The weather doesn't control itself, ya know," says Rainbow Dash. "I think weather does, does it not?", asks Derek. "Not if I control it," says Rainbow. Derek raises an eyebrow, "I am pretty sure it does." Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes, "Yeah, sure. Well, so long!" Rainbow Dash flies off. "I also have to leave, darling. I have a couple of dress orders that need to be filled as soon as possible," says Rarity. "Yeah, I gotta go, too! Mr. and Mrs. Cake should be expecting me back at any minute!", says Pinkie. "And my animals might need some care," says Fluttershy. Applejack peeks from underneath her hat, "Oh, and I, uh, have to go and buck... apples." Twilight raises an eyebrow at Applejack before smiling. "Well, I guess this is goodbye for now, girls!" Derek looks at Applejack and says, "Yeah. I hope to see you all again real soon." Applejack giggles a bit before clearing her throat to try to hide her feelings for Derek. Spike raises an eyebrow at Applejack. The Mane 6 say their goodbyes and leave. Spike notices Derek watching Applejack from behind as she walks past him. "Wow!", says Derek. Applejack hears Derek and giggles quietly to herself. Spike walks towards Twilight and whispers to her, "Hey, Twilight? Did you notice anything... weird about Applejack and Derek?" Twilight thinks for a few seconds and whispers back, "Well, Applejack was kind of acting strange after they shook hands. She almost seemed nervous. And Derek was looking at her almost constantly." Spike hesitates and asks, "Do you think maybe...?" Twilight is confused for a second before raising her eyebrows in realization, "Oh. Oh! Uh, I don't know if they're... like that, Spike. I mean, they just met. It's not like it was love at first sight or anything." Twilight walks away towards Derek. Spike seems to be thinking deeply and says, "Hmm. Somethin's goin' on between those two. I just know it." Back at the Golden Oak Library, Twilight and Derek are approaching the entrance. "Well, Derek, here we are at the Golden Oak Library. Me and Spike live here now," says Twilight. "Hmm. Neat place," compliments Derek. "Thanks." "You are welcome." "Well, let's go in." Twilight begins to walk in when Derek stops her. "Uh, Twilight?" "Yeah?" "I think I might be a bit too big to go in. Would you mind doing something about it?" "Oh, sure." Twilight uses her magic to make Derek a bit smaller, but still big enough to fit. "There. Now we can go in." "Right behind ya!" Twilight and Derek walk in. She says, "So Derek, how were things going when you were hibernating?" "Meh, it was okay. Though there were these teenage dragons who were mean to me. One of them was named Garble, I think. But that was the only problem," says Derek. "Ah, I remember those dragons. I believe they were the same ones who bullied Spike," says Twilight. "Oh, really?" "Yeah." "That is too bad. So how are you?" "Good. Good. Just earlier today, I was organizing some books when Spike came up to me and showed me a picture of you when you were little. He asked me about it, so I told him the story and I said that even though I wanted you back, it was your choice. Then I went back to work and Spike went to get you," says Twilight. "Hmm. But now, everything is fine since I am here!", Derek grins. "Oh, yes," says Twilight and she hugs Derek, who hugs her back. "So how's about you show me around Ponyville and we meet everypony in town?", Derek suggests. "Of course. Come on." Twilight and Derek walk out of the Golden Oak Library. Later, Twilight and Derek are walking in Ponyville, having already met everypony. "Well, Twilight, I had a fun time meetin' everypony in town!", says Derek. "Yeah. It was pretty cool, huh?", replies Twilight. "You bet!", agrees Derek. Twilight remembers something, "Oh! I just remembered! Have you met the Cutie Mark Crusaders?" "Who?", asks Derek. "The Cutie Mark Crusaders. Three fillies named Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo." "Oh. No, I have not met them yet. But I would love to!", says Derek. "All right!", says Twilight. Then she and Derek notice the Cutie Mark Crusaders laughing and playing ball on an open field. "Looks like fun! Let us go see 'em!", says Derek. Excited, he pulls Twilight by the hoof while running over to the field. "Whoa!", says Twilight. The Cutie Mark Crusaders are hitting a ball back and forth, giggling. Scootaloo hits the ball to Apple Bloom. "Catch, Apple Bloom!" Apple Bloom hits the ball back to Scootaloo. Just then, Twilight and Derek arrive. Apple Bloom's eyes widen when she sees Derek. She says, "Wow! Another dragon!" Scootaloo looks away from the ball in curiosity, "Dragon? Where?" Just then, the ball hits Scootaloo upside the head. "Ow!" The ball bounces and lands at Derek's feet. Derek picks up the ball and chuckles a little. "Hey, are you okay?", asks Derek. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo look towards Derek in awe. "Oh, my gosh!", says Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo grins and flutters her wings in excitement, "A dragon? Awesome!" Twilight laughs in amusement at the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She points to each one of them as she introduces them to Derek, "Derek, these are the Cutie Mark Crusaders: Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. Girls, this is Derek. He's an old friend of mine." Derek smiles and waves, "Hey there." Apple Bloom walks up to Derek with a friendly smile. "Mr. Derek, would you like to play catch with us?" Derek grins, "Sure. I would love to. And please, just call me Derek." "Okay," Apple Bloom smiles. Twilight smiles and watches happily as Derek joins in the Cutie Mark Crusaders' game and has fun. "Here, Derek! Catch!", Sweetie Belle calls out to him. She hits the ball to Derek, who hits it with his tail. "Heads up, Scootaloo!", calls Derek. Scootaloo hits the ball to Apple Bloom. They hit the ball back and forth. "This is sweet to see you guys are getting along," says Twilight. A little while later, the sun is going down slowly. "Well, girls, as much as we'd love to stay, the sun should be setting in a while," says Twilight. "Awww!", the Crusaders complain. "Mr. De-- I mean, Derek, would you like to come play with us tomorrow?", asks Sweetie Belle. "Yeah! And you could even come see our clubhouse! It's near Sweet Apple Acres!", says Scootaloo. Derek grins and says, "Sounds fun! I will be sure to come over tomorrow! See ya then!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders wave as Twilight and Derek start on their way back to the Golden Oak Library. "Bye, Derek! See ya tomorrow!", says Apple Bloom. Derek waves back and turns to Twilight. "Those three are really nice." "They really are," Twilight agrees. "Yeah. Me and them, we are so awesome," says Derek. Twilight chuckles and they walk the rest of the way in peace.
