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Each numbered clue, as well as a definition part, has a cryptic part which leads to an empty vessel, and which is not a valid word. The letter count indicates the defined (valid) word after a short (3 or 4 letters) entry. Indicated words are in alphabetical order, a final clue links the numbered ones.




1.Plucked by Greeks, sexually ambiguous around the country(8)

2.Lonely spirit heading North(3-8)

3.Doc at first is easily rankled , another dwarf even more so?(8)

4.Hot chilli paste blows ass off, it's an honourable death(4-4)

5.Moon on 40 day cycle has almost set, spotted around the sun?(11)

6.Showy birds, expensive if taken back(9)

7.Undercover police operation catches female steeling(10)






Anger over drink ends awkwardly – admitting first love is wine(8)

Say what, bro? Wuzzis jive?

Is the non-vessel empty in the middle, or passim?

Hi Aristo

The 3/4 letter entry is a (real) themed word filling the vessel - it stays together. First one solved will make it pretty clear.

Am not really sure what I've to do, but have got answers for 3,4 and 7.

That was quick Joan...I thought 3 and 4 would prove tricky...feel free to post your answers.

3 Grumpier?
4 Hari kari?
7 Stiffening

I had stiffening too (teehee), but can't see the significance of IFEN yet.

Or FENI.

Doc at first Is Easily Rankled , another dwarf even more so?(8) G(rum)P-ier

Hot chilli paste blows ass off, it's an honourable death(4-4) ha(ra-ki)ri[ssa]

Undercover police operation catches female steeling(10) sti-f(feni)-ng