Daily hard — 2026-10-30

Across

1. 2. This term refers to doctrines derived from a 4th century BC thinker (12)
2. 3. Title for a senior Iranian religious leader (9)
3. 9. People fighting for a cause, often in a violent way (9)
4. 12. Moves swiftly or violently through the air (7)
5. 13. Historically, a carefree individual during a festival, often in literature (7)
6. 14. A mysterious spin delivery in cricket (6)
7. 17. To change to a lower gear in a vehicle (9)
8. 18. A pouting expression often seen in portraits. (4)
9. 19. Recognition or certification awarded for achievement or service. (7)
10. 20. This nation was once home to the famous Simon Bolívar. (9)
11. 21. Term used historically for women managing large retail establishments. (10)

Down

1. 1. Widely acclaimed in a particular field or area (8)
2. 4. Work that influenced Machiavelli and Clausewitz (8)
3. 5. This artist surprised fans with a recent festival appearance. (12)
4. 6. Small bags for carrying personal items or trinkets. (9)
5. 7. A fight that breaks out in a pub or tavern. (8)
6. 8. Glass containers used for preserving or transporting substances in medicine. (7)
7. 10. Term referring to sensation or perception in medicine. (9)
8. 11. Medical specialty focusing on the urinary system. (7)
9. 12. Famous escape artist and magician of the early 20th century (12)
10. 15. Gain a tactical advantage over an opponent (8)
11. 16. Form of movement often associated with slippery creatures. (6)