At least passing through the Royal Undermountain Constabulary's checkpoint hidden in Her Majesty's Apple Orchard Shed had been straightforward. She’d been down so many times now with Sergeant Ebonshield and the Royal Engineer that the post-officer didn't even blink when just the two of them showed up wanting to head in. It was just 'sign here, initial there, in you go.’ No recited warning about impending death and the complete unavailability of any Royal Guard backup or rescue team.