| compel | to make someone do something |
| gingerly | carefully |
| cubicle | small space |
| skeptical | attitude of doubt |
| heart-wrenching | very emotional |
| microfiche | sheet of microfilm |
| honorary | having distinction |
| psychic | supernatural forces |
| laden | burdened |
| retreat | withdrawal |
| hypnotizing | mesmerizing |
| habitat | living environment |
| vivid | lively |
| ebony | dark |
| vicinity | near |