This question tests understanding of nuanced meaning and the relationship between appearance and effect, specifically the idea that subtlety can lead to a greater impact later. **Core Concept:** This tests the understanding of the word 'ultimately' and the relationship between an initial subtle approach and a later, more pronounced effect, focusing on the dynamic progression rather than a static state. **Solution:** * **Option A:** This option is incorrect because it contradicts the 'initially appearing subtle' part of the sentence. The melancholy was not immediately obvious. * **Option B:** This option accurately reflects the meaning. The initial subtlety of the muted colors contributes to the overall effect, and the 'ultimately amplified' suggests that the effect became stronger over time or after a period of exposure. * **Option C:** This is incorrect because it suggests no connection between the colors and the melancholy, which directly contradicts the provided statement. * **Option D:** This option wrongly infers that the melancholic effect was produced through methods other than the use of the muted colors, which contradicts the statement. **Correct Answer:** B **Easy-mistake reminder:** This question is tricky as the word ‘subtle’ often makes readers believe that the impact will be limited. Here, it is a key to unlocking the correct answer. The word ‘ultimately’ signals a transformation from a subtle beginning to an amplified later state. The relationship between initial appearance and final effect is sequential, not concurrent.