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)

[the_great_she_elephant]

Thanks Countess.

Possibly the class where old lags are taught to obey the rules.

1 word 7 letters 

[countessalmirena]

Conform?

[the_great_she_elephant]

That's it Countess.

conform = obey the rules

con = convict = old lag

form - class

Your turn.

[countessalmirena]

Thank you.

Without deceit the young embrace a footless ankle.

(1 word, 7 letters)

[twyngwyn]

frankly

[countessalmirena]

twyngwyn, yes!

Without deceit the young embrace a footless ankle.

(1 word, 7 letters)

the young = fry

embrace = indicator word [container]
footless ankle = ankle - e (i.e. remove its “foot”)

            fr[ankle-e]y     = frankly

without deceit = [whole word clue] frankly

The cryptic chalk goes to you.

[twyngwyn]

sounds like a pole and country are on spin cycle (1 word, 10 letters)

[countessalmirena]

Centrifuge?

[twyngwyn]

no, sorry

[twyngwyn]

sounds like a pole and country are on spin cycle (1 word, 10 letters)

__o_a_____