Cryptic Stuff

[not_for_sale]

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]

HINT:

Rot! Curtailed, the self has joyous season (7)

Ignore the punctuation. I’m being sneaky.

WORDPLAY

[charade][indicator:deletion][charade]
[DEFINITION]

_ e _ _ i _ _

[not_for_sale]

Festive

[countessalmirena]

Yes.

Rot! Curtailed, the self has joyous season (7)

WORDPLAY

   rot [charade] = fester

   curtailed [indicator:deletion] final letter/s removed = fest

   the self has [charade] I’ve

         fest + ive
[DEFINITION]

     joyous season = festive

May the spirit of cryptic clues be upon you, nfs.

[not_for_sale]

Clue:

I hear Kyrgios is oh so juvenile. But does stimulate and get the heart pumping.

(8 letters)

[countessalmirena]

nicotine.

[not_for_sale]

Yes countess, over to you.

[countessalmirena]

Absurd acts led to protected ruler. (7 words)

[countessalmirena]

Ugh!  7 letters.

[veiled-lady]

castled?

[countessalmirena]

Exactly.

Absurd acts led to protected ruler. (7)

WORDPLAY

   absurd [indicator:anagram] acts led = castled

DEFINITION

   protected ruler = the chess move that protects the king = castled

Over to you, veiled-lady.