IMHO in this scenario we all know what the rules say, and there is only one set of rules i.e. one size fits all, but..........."rules can be for the obedience of fools and the guidance of wise men."
You are in a territory where obeying the rules can always be defended. Whether it was absolutely necessary or 'the best thing' to do is a discussion. However, you do not know how you employer or XAA will react to not following the rules 100% and may not sympathise with your airmanship decision to deviate.
Always a difficult one, as suggested in your question.