In Duncan's eyes, the intricate and chaotic dark shadows had already "collapsed" back into that valiant and spirited female adventurer. Deep within the mirror, the layered silhouettes no longer trembled in disorder.
Duncan watched this scene quietly for a long time without speaking.
Martha, within the mirror, remained still for a period after reconvening—like a pause before a film officially begins. After two or three seconds, a lively, animated expression returned to her face. She looked down at herself somewhat bewilderedly before lifting her head with delayed realization, "You... what did you do?"
Duncan ended his silence, shaking his head gently, "Nothing much, just a welcome."
He paused, then after gathering his thoughts, he began, "If you remain 'Martha' forever, do you still plan to tell Lawrence the truth?"