vitrines a glass-paneled cabinet or glass display case for art objects, curios, etc.
in extremis (Lat.) at the point of death.
labyrinth a complicated, perplexing arrangement, course of affairs, or the like.
denouement outcome, resolution.
lapis lazuli an azure-blue, opaque semiprecious stone; a mixture of various minerals.
inanition emptiness; exhaustion; lack of strength or spirit.
importunate troublesome; annoyingly persistent.
clandestine kept secret or hidden, especially for some illicit purpose; surreptitious; furtive.
sedulously persistently and steadily; diligently.
