Daily hard — 2026-10-01

Across

1. 2. A phrase often associated with giving an impromptu speech (12)
2. 4. Pests known for their unpleasant odour (9)
3. 5. Famous minimalist composer known for operas and symphonies. (12)
4. 6. A term used for attractive women with golden locks. (12)
5. 9. Royal heraldry's unique identifiers, often found in genealogy (10)
6. 10. Friendly greeting from next door. (10)
7. 18. Law enabling special powers for military in disturbed areas (5)
8. 19. Element of play in Settlers of Catan or Ticket to Ride (9)
9. 20. Ancient belief in a gaze that brings harm or misfortune (8)

Down

1. 1. Founder of the Horseshoe Casino known for high-stakes poker (11)
2. 3. Philosophy term for self-respect, often discussed by Rousseau. (11)
3. 7. Phrase often heard in reaction to excessive compliments (12)
4. 8. A type of question used in cognitive psychology studies. (11)
5. 11. Home to Santa Fe and Taos, known for its art and culture (10)
6. 12. A famous song by Electric Light Orchestra encouraging perseverance. (11)
7. 13. This character's views on marriage are quite progressive for her time (10)
8. 14. Common retort in a conversation about guilt (7)
9. 15. Descriptive term in broadcasting for a lack of sound (7)
10. 16. To incur liabilities often due to spending beyond one's means. (10)
11. 17. Manufacturer that recently upgraded its full-frame mirrorless lineup (9)