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)

[twyngwyn]

Stepmother?

[countessalmirena]

Yes, that’s a positive ID of the fairytale baddie!

Fairytale baddie pest goes off to pour tea (10)

pest
   goes off [anagrind] -> step

to pour tea [charade: mother] (as in “Shall I be mother?”)

step+mother

WHOLE INDICATOR

fairytale baddie = stepmother 

Over to you, twyngwyn.

[twyngwyn]

Quickie:

the fish was down deep (4)

[countessalmirena]

bass?

🎻🐟

[twyngwyn]

All yours, countess

[countessalmirena]

Settle about little French ride (7)

[twyngwyn]

Peugeot…….?

[countessalmirena]

No, not Peugeot.

Settle about little French ride (7)

_ a _ _ _ _ _

[twyngwyn]

Bump (no idea)……….

[countessalmirena]

Clues

Settle about little French ride (7)

_ a _ _ _ e _

There’s a containment indicator, two abbreviations and a charade.