The subject "always was able to make friends," because she naturally possesses the missing word. This means the correct answer will show an ability to talk to people and be friendly. "Gregariousness," meaning sociability and a willingness to talk to people, is the best answer choice.

The key phrase in the sentence is "their recently deceased lead singer." This indicates the missing word will in some way celebrate or recognize the passing of the singer. "Paean," meaning a song done in praise or tribute, is the best choice among the answers.

As the boy misbehaved, it is safe to assume that the father will have a strong criticism of the boy. The correct answer will therefore mean scolding or rebuke for a fault, the definition of "reproof."

The sentence is structured in a way that connects the "popular restaurant" to the "excitement" generated by the "new restaurant." This means the correct answer needs to indicate the head chef's connection to the "popular restaurant." "Tutelage," meaning education or learning from a specific person, is the best answer choice.

The sentence notes that the ideas "took a long time to sort through." This means there were quite a lot, and the correct answer should mean a glut or excess, the definition of "slew."

Since we know the reaction only begins after we add whatever the missing noun represents, we need a noun that represents something that starts a chemical reaction. Since a "catalyst" is defined as a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change, it is the best answer.

We know that the escaped knight probably has some kind of restraint around his hands and feet from the context (he was previously imprisoned and had to hop to the blacksmith's). So, we're looking for a noun that refers to some form of physical restraint. "Fetters," which are chains or manacles used to restrain a prisoner, typically placed around the ankles, is the best answer choice.

The sentence notes the dog would "stand guard" over the grave. This means the correct answer will indicate someone watching or guarding. "Centurion," an ancient Roman soldier, is the best choice among the answers.

The gloves' "poor quality" means that they cannot be worn without the help of the missing word. The correct answer must mean something that assists or makes better. "Emollient," meaning something that softens, is the best choice among the answers.

While the sentence indicates a good number of questions, the word "peppered" provides a great clue to the answer. This indicates that there were not just many questions, but that they came quickly and suddenly. "Fusillade," meaning a long burst of gunfire, and here used metaphorically, is the best choice.