In the Royal Canterlot Archives, every scrap of Equestrian history is recorded, often with artifacts present as evidence. There are grimoirs and cookbooks, and there are swords and ploughshares. Many items are harmless (provided one is not allergic to dust mites), but those that are remain under lock and key. The first diarchy saw the creation of masterworks of stone, steel, and magic. The Royal Everfree Archaeologists unearthed countless powerful sources of magic from ages past. Some magic is older still.

Written for EQD's Nighmare Night 2012 competition.

Luna is sure that she can see in color. However, when she awakens in a greyscale labyrinth, she finds her convictions tested. A voice begins announcing the time, but is it counting up towards morning or down towards midnight? The other ponies wandering the labyrinth have stolen her appearance, and not all are harmless. As the walls begin to close in on her, she must decide what price she is willing to pay for freedom.