To help build interest into the climax of the story, giving the story its thrill.
punishment (imposition of a penalty as a response to an action or behavior that seemed unacceptable) = retribution (punishment as a vengeance for a wrong or criminal act)
taciturn (someone who is not loud or talkative) = silent (someone who is not speaking or not making any noise)
contrived (something that was created deliberately) = planned (something that is existing or was created according to a plan)
countenance (someone's facial expression) = expression
retinue (a group of advisers or a group of people escorting someone important) = attendants (an assistant to an important person)
pleasing (something satisfying) = conciliatory (something intending to conciliate and pacify opposing views)
