On a STAR starting at 18ish. Ends at 2000’. Huge CB half way along. Request 30 deg right that does take us towards rather high terrain (10k+). Get cleared right of route (no heading or distance limit).
I presume old mate forgets we’re on heading and clears us to 2000’. Query one in case we both misheard, “affirm 2000”. “Confirm cleared level due terrain?” Without missing a beat “Descend 12000 report when clear of weather and can track direct to ILS”