Cryptic Stuff

[not_for_sale2025]

While it was done some years ago I see, I thought I would try a cryptic crossword-like thread for fun and to try and boost a little more interest here. I made up the below question for anyone interested in such a challenge. I thought the first person to get it correct might come up with the next question. A clue though - if you copy one from a newspaper or magazine etc., the answer can often be found on the internet. I can explain the answer for anyone who asks. 🙂

The prisoner at the cave would not stand for the electrically charged droplets of water.

(12 letters)

[countessalmirena]

Is it flounder?

[twyngwyn]

Yes, all yours

[not_for_sale2025]

Flounder...

[countessalmirena]

Entrance principally staged (ibid.) ultimately welcomed by Chevron (9)

[twyngwyn]

Sorry nfs, you were pipped at the post

[countessalmirena]

Reposted:

Entrance principally staged (ibid.) ultimately welcomed by Chevron (9)

[twyngwyn]

No idea?????

[countessalmirena]

Clues:

Entrance principally staged (ibid.) ultimately welcomed by Chevron (9)

_ e _ _ _ _ _ _ e

There’s a containment indicator.

The 3-word section that goes into the container has another type of indicator applied.

EDIT: Once you know what the other indicator is and how it applies to the 3 words, it will all make sense - especially when it goes into the container.

[not_for_sale2025]

Mesmerise...

[countessalmirena]

No, mesmerise isn’t the answer.

Entrance principally staged (ibid.) ultimately welcomed by Chevron (9)

_ e _ _ _ _ _ l e   (Lower-case L, not capital i)

There’s a containment indicator.

The 3-word section that goes into the container has another type of indicator applied. EXTRA: if i told you what sort of indicator that is, it would give away the answer.

ADDITIONAL: The fact that it applies to three words is the first thing you need to keep in mind.