Alas Babylon P3

antebellum

occurring or existing before a particular war, especially the American Civil War

deftly

in a way that is neatly skillful and quick in movement

timbre

the character or quality of a musical sound or voice as distinct from its pitch and intensity

foreboding

implying or seeming to imply that something bad is going to happen

vicissitude

a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant

unparried

not being able to successfully defend against

emeritus

having retired but allowed to retain their title as an honor

cadence

a modulation or inflection of the voice

acumen

the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain

malleable

able to be hammered or pressed permanently out of shape without breaking or cracking