The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 plus 8 letter word EVEN TEMPERED
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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Buddy explains!
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does EVEN TEMPERED mean?
EVEN TEMPERED adjective- Remaining calm even in situations that would cause many others to become angry, frustrated, panicky, etc.