Guardian Genius (Last Two)

[JJ109]

Although I have answers for these last two, I am not happy with them, but I now can't think of anything else but these. Therefore, I am not adding what I think here, so that you are not stymied also.

21a In case of trouble, invited to one side, then cantered back about a furlong (5,3)
_ S _ E _ / _ _ R
23d Curled-up tree reported and listed dead (6)
_ _ R _ E _

In addition the 6th letter of 21a is the first letter of 23d

There are also some special instructions that apply. Each clue or solution involves a word in common. To reach the defined solution to be entered in the grid, in some cases it must be added to the wordplay; in others it must be removed from the result of the wordplay.

From solving all the other clues I can advise that the common word is "ANT"

[scorpiojo]

23 Fur (fir) le(ant) d(ead)

[JJ109]

Thanks Jo - "furled" was my answer but I couldn't see the leant + d, all I saw was "lanted"!!

[scorpiojo]

Asked for

Ask(ant) + rode (cantered) around f(urlong) reversed (back)

askant - (used especially of glances) directed to one side with or as if with doubt or suspicion or envy; "her eyes with their misted askance look"- Elizabeth Bowen; "sidelong glances"

[JJ109]

Thanks again - that was my other answer also, and I parsed it exactly the same way- I just wasn't too keen on it.
Many thanksagain Jo

[scorpiojo]

Me neither, JJ. You’re welcome. :)