Am a bit stuck (and rusty) think I've got the theme but stuck on the three letter words. But the one to hlep might be: 12a - Monarch's implicatged in articles in three languages aftger that (10) ??e???n?? am still unsure as to whether Crucible is a clue or just the setter. Thanks Maimai.
Okay I've just posted and been directed to an earlier answer - but couldn't find in search and it's been a while since I've been doing the crossword and using the site so apolgies for any duplication. M
The setter's name, Crucible is a clue to what's going on. Think of the colours already appearing in the grid and that should help you with the three-letter words.