The feedback shows that the solution follows the pattern _L A _ E: specifically, L, A, and E in positions 2, 3, and 5 respectively. I avoid letters that have been marked black (C, R, N, S, T, G, D) and choose a word that fits the pattern and introduces new letters to test. 'FLAME' (F, L, A, M, E) fits this pattern and tests F and M, which haven't been used yet.