Crystal
in this case, it is used to suggest hardship and also to suggest the clear mind which the characters had
Etched
refers to a special method of engraving
Linger
to avoid going somewhere
Minstrel
entertainer, a singer
Usward
towards us
Sloth
excessive laziness, used to refer to the sin of being lazy
Dearth
lack of food
Pungent
a strong foul smell
Whetted
to sharp a cutting tool
Throng
a pack of people or animals