fdeops 5.1.5 → 5.1.6

package/README.md

@@ -103,7 +103,7 @@ After a meeting, paste permitted notes into the same agent conversation. It prop
 
 A request is not automatically an agreement. A passing test is not a production deployment. A measured improvement is not customer acceptance. FDEOps keeps those distinctions in the record.
 
-At the next session, the coordinator retrieves a short summary rather than loading the full history. The default summary is capped at 16 KiB; older evidence is retrieved when needed. This cap applies to FDEOps output, not everything your agent loads.
+At the next session, the coordinator retrieves a short summary rather than loading the full history. The default summary is capped at 16 KiB; older evidence is retrieved when needed. For interrupted implementation, it also surfaces a saved checkpoint when one exists, then checks the current task record before continuing. This cap applies to FDEOps output, not everything your agent loads.
 
 If your agent cannot start the record, run this in your terminal from the workspace where you work on that customer:
 

package/bin/fde.js

@@ -1464,6 +1464,8 @@ function cmdResume(args) {
   }
   const intro = [resumeTriage(eng), firstActionLine(eng), ...hygieneTriageLines(eng), ...recordDigest(eng)].join('\n')
   const ctx = readClean(eng, 'context.md')
+  const savedWork = context.implementationCheckpoint(ctx)
+  const checkpoint = stripTemplateNoise(savedWork.checkpoint).trim()
   if (args.includes('--full')) {
     console.log(`${intro}\n\nENGAGEMENT: ${eng}\n\n${ctx || '(no context.md yet)'}`)
     return
@@ -1476,11 +1478,12 @@ function cmdResume(args) {
   process.stdout.write(maskedSections([
     policy ? `CLIENT POLICY - trust-profile.md\n${policy}` : '',
     preferences.work ? `WORKING PREFERENCES: ${preferences.work}. Starting help: ${preferences.start}.\n${setup.nextStep(preferences)}\nThis is a starting preference, not a client fact; current instructions and engagement state take precedence.` : '',
+    checkpoint ? `SAVED IMPLEMENTATION CHECKPOINT - context.md\nRecheck the referenced task record and working tree before acting; this is not fresh verification.\n${checkpoint}` : '',
     intro,
     success ? `CURRENT GOALS & ACCEPTANCE - success.md\n${success}` : '',
     risks ? `OPEN RISKS - risks.md\n${extractRisks(eng).map(r => r.text).join('\n') || '(none recorded)'}` : '',
     `VALUE LEDGER - delivery.md\n${parseValueLedger(eng).rows.map(r => formatValueLedgerLine(r) + '; source: ' + (r.evidence || '(missing)')).join('\n') || '(none recorded)'}`,
-    `WORKING CONTEXT - context.md\n${ctx ? resumeView(ctx) : '(no context.md yet)'}`,
+    `WORKING CONTEXT - context.md\n${ctx ? resumeView(savedWork.remaining) : '(no context.md yet)'}`,
   ], maxBytes, `ENGAGEMENT: ${eng}`))
 }
 

package/bin/generate-skills.js

@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ const inputGuidance = {
 function entrypoint(item) {
   const mode = item.inputMode || 'context'
   if (!Object.hasOwn(inputGuidance, mode)) throw new Error(`Invalid input mode: ${mode}`)
-  return `---\nname: ${item.name}\ndescription: ${item.description}\n---\n\n# ${item.name}\n\n<!-- Generated by bin/generate-skills.js; edit the canonical references and catalog. -->\n\n## Purpose\n\n${item.description}\n\nRead [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/${item.method}.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.\n\n## Principles\n\n- ${inputGuidance[mode]}\n- If called by @fde, reuse its current sanitized packet and scope. Do not restart setup, discovery or questions already answered.\n- The task context contract controls persistence and authority in both modes. Preserve unknowns and distinguish implementation, verification, deployment and acceptance.\n- Use the customer's repository instructions and available tools. Report a missing capability or unrun check honestly; do not claim that installing a skill provisions infrastructure.\n`
+  return `---\nname: ${item.name}\ndescription: ${item.description}\n---\n\n# ${item.name}\n\n<!-- Generated by bin/generate-skills.js; edit the canonical references and catalog. -->\n\n## Purpose\n\n${item.description}\n\nBefore investigating or acting:\n1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).\n2. Read [the method](references/${item.method}.md).\n\nLoad further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.\n\n## Principles\n\n- ${inputGuidance[mode]}\n- If called by @fde, reuse its current sanitized packet and scope. Do not restart setup, discovery or questions already answered.\n- The task context contract controls persistence and authority in both modes. Preserve unknowns and distinguish implementation, verification, deployment and acceptance.\n- Use the customer's repository instructions and available tools. Report a missing capability or unrun check honestly; do not claim that installing a skill provisions infrastructure.\n`
 }
 function expectedFiles(item, referenceRoot = source) {
   const files = new Map([['SKILL.md', entrypoint(item)]])

package/bin/lib/context.js

@@ -98,4 +98,39 @@ function recallSections(documents, query, maxHits = 12, outputText = text => tex
     sections: selected.map(h => `${h.file}:${h.line}-${h.end} (lines in redacted view)\n${h.text}`),
   }
 }
-module.exports = { DEFAULT_BYTES, clipUtf8, clipMaskedUtf8, budgetArgs, boundedSections, recallSections }
+// Extract one optional unindented H2 section without losing nested headings. Last occurrence
+// wins, including an empty one that clears older progress. Input is sanitized.
+function implementationCheckpoint(text) {
+  const lines = String(text || '').split('\n')
+  const retained = []
+  let checkpoint = ''
+  let active = false
+  let body = []
+  let fence = null
+  for (const line of lines) {
+    let heading = null
+    if (fence) {
+      if (new RegExp(`^[\\t ]*${fence.char}{${fence.length},}[\\t ]*$`).test(line)) fence = null
+    } else {
+      // Track list fences too so their closing line cannot open a new block.
+      const opening = line.match(/^ {0,3}(?:(?:[-+*]|\d{1,9}[.)])[\t ]+)?(`{3,}|~{3,})(.*)$/)
+      if (opening && (opening[1][0] !== '`' || !opening[2].includes('`'))) {
+        fence = { char: opening[1][0], length: opening[1].length }
+      } else {
+        // Record sections start at column zero; list/container examples are content.
+        heading = line.match(/^(#{1,2})(?:[\t ]+|$)(.*)$/)
+      }
+    }
+    if (heading) {
+      if (active) checkpoint = body.join('\n').trim()
+      active = heading[1] === '##' && /^Implementation checkpoint$/i.test(heading[2].replace(/[\t ]+#+[\t ]*$/, '').trim())
+      body = []
+      if (active) continue
+    }
+    if (active) body.push(line)
+    else retained.push(line)
+  }
+  if (active) checkpoint = body.join('\n').trim()
+  return { checkpoint, remaining: retained.join('\n') }
+}
+module.exports = { DEFAULT_BYTES, clipUtf8, clipMaskedUtf8, budgetArgs, boundedSections, recallSections, implementationCheckpoint }

package/mcp/fdeops-ingest/package.json

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 {
   "name": "fdeops-ingest-mcp",
-  "version": "5.1.5",
+  "version": "5.1.6",
   "private": true,
   "description": "Thin stdio MCP sink for FDEOps ingest (stage \u2192 propose \u2192 apply). Zero runtime dependencies.",
   "bin": {

package/package.json

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 {
   "name": "fdeops",
-  "version": "5.1.5",
+  "version": "5.1.6",
   "description": "Forward deployed engineering skills for AI coding agents. Use focused task skills or @fde for discovery, implementation, verification and handoff, with local engagement records.",
   "bin": {
     "fdeops": "bin/install.js",

package/plugin.json

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 {
   "$schema": "https://agent-plugins.org/schemas/1.0.0/plugin.schema.json",
   "name": "fdeops",
-  "version": "5.1.5",
+  "version": "5.1.6",
   "description": "Forward deployed engineering skills for AI coding agents. Use focused task skills or @fde for discovery, implementation, verification and handoff, with local engagement records.",
   "author": {
     "name": "Subash Natarajan",

package/skills/audit/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,9 +2,9 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "aa120dd0b6c0781300d56f916f1721525de7fbe65608ff7a9a0239a2a5e20e88",
+    "SKILL.md": "b0dee139ba4f681a61eb0c3d8c802f06857502fd479843edb8e3b8cb27229ae5",
     "references/audit.md": "ed32ea78cbccb100742dd838e8cf4cd4b6f33ad44b3de7424fc624670d571dbc",
     "references/discover.md": "f65aa11a539b4dbbed70cfaa94ec2a35595aa9a2d0282790510b933ac9c721ce",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/audit/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Audit an inherited engagement or implementation against its evidenc
 
 Audit an inherited engagement or implementation against its evidence. Use when taking over work or joining mid-project; distinguish verified facts from inherited claims.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/audit.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/audit.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/audit/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/board-memo/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,9 +2,9 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "da96fdf9d2dc7f9774e9579dc7e155ca514e20ba7c79b069704ce6d943c62809",
+    "SKILL.md": "5782488d9878335cdc1db68c08eccd613486370164284ff11d93422eced6423a",
     "references/board-memo.md": "44eb3c27f164da63af694591025b3fc96bb23d149c29de400997c1653e3322f8",
     "references/business-case.md": "32e000e8351cd59f9eaad8be40babb276df69948ea4f81e01a4672e47f48cb25",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/board-memo/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Draft a board or executive summary of an engagement using outcomes,
 
 Draft a board or executive summary of an engagement using outcomes, risks and investment decisions. Use when the sponsor needs to brief senior leadership.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/board-memo.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/board-memo.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/board-memo/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/brief/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,8 +2,8 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "6ccada100587e370639f468328795839c15a063b7ada4ed2f31794ba9e6c1c4c",
+    "SKILL.md": "5d88b9818951f8a8a44c39ad2b36ccdca74fef5e6ed31e67788b50d3ca1bb006",
     "references/land.md": "7a82ac999d23b51b602cd815777a853c4879ca8be40dc6c84c66f154d1f77951",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/brief/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Clarify a new customer brief, desired outcome, constraints and evid
 
 Clarify a new customer brief, desired outcome, constraints and evidence gaps. Use for kickoff or a first meeting; do not repeat discovery already supplied.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/land.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/land.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/brief/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/build/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,15 +2,15 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "19f32ecae72b96ee19cb87658ddd998cce96ec2e3960255d13fcc2906c6d0b6b",
-    "references/build.md": "3f8b5e52eb874ee4e99db5e0b70d1ccca1134f667a39279d6b4e55629832ae75",
+    "SKILL.md": "245c53b404549ed73fd6ef532e48c002de7d20a6a93eaca6c0714c4e4d14ba92",
+    "references/build.md": "7634abd02b70011b7443a65ea3aaf3cb536ed5b051312aed188f46523deea7f9",
     "references/debug.md": "c3bb344d38cc3552cb4e230c601a9be3fe173af2b2efb89aab6b7b04339f24f4",
     "references/eval-pack.md": "0590b85d3cae0903c6b1274540c92eaa2a4373047e8a0548d6942516ef0bb9e1",
     "references/integrate.md": "d0de35a783902ca8b4762e3a42a14f467766d56a928c3a5cf11adac2a6ba90ba",
     "references/qa.md": "d8f58e6d36436469a58aeb1107037f3e27fa81ff5b82d0e4df3c23eeadaf683c",
-    "references/review.md": "63a007f78288089cc84cccc72647e8ce6721b7efa0f4f8d6774c0f0af594749d",
-    "references/ship.md": "8cdcb2d4d6eb57e0adf3f1996bc02ae66920852ca304d2afd778fa483b7e969a",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec",
-    "references/verification.md": "62bb4fb40d9b71c6481c57a4564bcc98c4014a8be5d4aedfe1eb3f7f90d5e1f7"
+    "references/review.md": "55733ca868c00fb22110bc7b3ec7bb6c6451366c795073b19a2bccd30d2764c8",
+    "references/ship.md": "c7fd7774d6ba1f7e9d05b4bfd89bae124bb9bab0079d49c15a025b8b3383f157",
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5",
+    "references/verification.md": "18dfaa97b16e8713a99d9686e3a9fef4e0b9bde0f81c87af8fd73dae588543c2"
   }
 }

package/skills/build/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Implement a scoped customer-facing software change in the existing
 
 Implement a scoped customer-facing software change in the existing repository and verify its behavior. Use for delivery work with an understood outcome, not incident response.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/build.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/build.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/build/references/build.md

@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ Use the permitted context and authority in [task context](task-context.md). This
 
 ## Method
 
-1. Identify the repository, its instructions, working tree, relevant callers, and test commands. Inspect examples before creating abstractions. Preserve unrelated edits and state which dependencies or interfaces the change touches. Before changing an untested legacy path, capture the undocumented behavior callers depend on with targeted characterization checks; distinguish behavior to preserve from the intended change.
+1. Identify the repository, its instructions, working tree, relevant callers, and test commands. Inspect examples before creating abstractions. Follow the repository's branch policy and choose any needed checkout isolation according to that policy and overlapping work. Preserve unrelated edits and state which dependencies or interfaces the change touches. Before changing an untested legacy path, capture the undocumented behavior callers depend on with targeted characterization checks; distinguish behavior to preserve from the intended change.
 2. State the observable outcome, constraints, and acceptance checks. Reuse agreed criteria for routine fixes. If a consequential product choice is unresolved, surface that choice while continuing independent investigation; do not invent acceptance.
 3. Choose the smallest coherent path that demonstrates the outcome through the real entry point. Include the necessary storage, error handling, and interface behavior in that slice. Name the failure that stops expansion and the recovery path for stateful changes.
 4. Implement using the repository's tools and conventions. Search for existing services, fixtures, and validation before adding alternatives. Keep cleanup limited to what makes the changed path understandable; do not expand scope to repair unrelated code. When changing dependencies, inspect the package source, requested version, lockfile changes and repository install-script policy before executing package code. Use the approved package manager and bootstrap controls; do not blanket-enable scripts or apply unrelated dependency upgrades.
@@ -15,6 +15,8 @@ Use the permitted context and authority in [task context](task-context.md). This
 
 ## Deliverable and acceptance
 
+For substantial work, maintain the [recoverable checkpoint](verification.md#recoverable-checkpoint) in the existing task record as slices complete or work pauses.
+
 Return the implemented behavior, relevant paths, evidence, remaining limitations, and any decision needed. Done means the agreed checks have applicable evidence and the change is reviewable; passing tests does not imply deployment or customer acceptance. Committing, opening a PR, merging, and publishing happen only when the requested workflow authorizes those actions.
 
 When coordinated through `@fde`, record implementation and verification in the existing decisions/delivery records under their write rules. Standalone work can return the same receipt directly or use the repository's task record.

package/skills/build/references/review.md

@@ -22,6 +22,8 @@ Trace the changed path through its consumers and failure cases:
 - **AI behavior:** outputs remain untrusted, tools enforce allowed actions, and [eval evidence](eval-pack.md) covers the changed behavior and documented authority. Preserve privacy-safe source evidence and concise rationale, never hidden reasoning.
 - **Operability:** observable failures, bounded resource use, meaningful checks, and a recovery path appropriate to the risk. Deployment readiness is assessed separately in [ship](ship.md).
 
+For changes with consequential security impact, map the affected assets, actors and permissions, and trust boundaries. Trace plausible abuse paths through the changed code, identify the controls that stop them, and check those controls or record the missing evidence. Keep this assessment with the existing review receipt and proportional to the change; use a formal threat-model framework only when the project requires or benefits from it.
+
 ## Findings and repair
 
 For each actionable finding give the path/line or precise location, concrete trigger, observed or reasoned failure, impact, and focused correction. Distinguish proven bugs from hypotheses that need a check. Prioritize release blockers over minor concerns; avoid speculative style work.

package/skills/build/references/ship.md

@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ Before deployment, establish these facts from existing evidence or a necessary c
 | Acceptance | Replayable check and agreed decision-maker/mechanism; record actual acceptance separately from readiness |
 | Data and policy | Permitted data, applicable security/residency/change-window requirements, necessary approvals already recorded or obtained |
 | Recovery | Applicable tested rollback, restore, compensation, or roll-forward within agreed recovery-time/data-loss limits; explicit authority for irreversible effects |
-| Operations | Named release/recovery owner, runbook appropriate to risk, health and business signals, stop thresholds, observation coverage |
+| Operations | Named release/recovery owner, runbook appropriate to risk, health and business signals, stop thresholds, observation coverage; applicable [failure-signal delivery evidence](verification.md#operator-response) for paths whose readiness depends on operator response |
 | AI, when applicable | Current applicable SHIP eval evidence, critical failures zero, enforced action boundary and required human review or documented bounded automation |
 
 Check migration compatibility, old/new version coexistence, delayed jobs, caches, and already-emitted side effects where relevant. A code revert does not undo data loss or external writes. Reuse drill evidence only when the mechanism and relevant conditions are unchanged, explaining applicability. If recovery is only a plan, exercise it in a permitted representative environment before release.
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ Before wider exposure, verify expected load/cost, data pipeline behavior, owners
 
 Keep these claims separate: implemented, verified, deployed, measured outcome, and accepted. Include the candidate, target, command/pipeline, applicable checks and unrun checks, review source, evaluation where needed, authority source, recovery evidence, observation, and next owner/action. Attribute acceptance to its actual source and scope. A staging measurement is not production value, and a commit is not deployment.
 
-In engagement mode, write confirmed implementation/decisions and delivery receipts under the existing record rules. Standalone work returns the same receipt or uses the repository's permitted release record. Committing, pushing, opening a PR, publishing, and notifying others are actions governed by the user's workflow, not mandatory steps imposed by this method.
+In engagement mode, write confirmed implementation/decisions and delivery receipts under the existing record rules. Standalone work returns the same receipt or uses the repository's permitted release record. If substantial work remains, retain a [recoverable checkpoint](verification.md#recoverable-checkpoint) there. Committing, pushing, opening a PR, publishing, and notifying others are actions governed by the user's workflow, not mandatory steps imposed by this method.
 
 ## Worked example
 

package/skills/build/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/build/references/verification.md

@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ Use [task context](task-context.md). This method returns evidence directly or wr
 
 1. Translate each claim into the observation that would support or reject it. Reuse agreed acceptance criteria and required repository checks. Select focused checks for changed behavior before broadening to release requirements.
 2. Identify the actual repository commands, fixtures, runtime, and environment. Read command behavior before executing it, especially when it can write externally. Use authorized environments and avoid leaking secrets through logs or diagnostic commands.
-3. Run the checks and inspect results, including exit status and relevant output. A running job, test discovery, a mocked response, and a successful real request are different evidence. Record asynchronous completion before claiming success.
+3. Run the checks and inspect results, including exit status and relevant output. A running job, test discovery, a mocked response, and a successful real request are different evidence. Record asynchronous completion before claiming success. Describe a command as executed only when its actual invocation and result are available; an inferred result is not a run.
 4. Bind evidence to the tested revision and working tree. For uncommitted changes record the base revision plus changed paths and an available diff digest or snapshot identifier. For browser/manual checks record the steps, inputs, observed result, and inspected evidence.
 5. After a change, rerun checks whose behavior or assumptions were affected. Reuse prior evidence only when the relevant code, dependencies, data, and environment remain applicable; cite the original run and reason. Never imply reused evidence was rerun.
 6. Label every required check **passed**, **failed**, **blocked**, or **not run**. Include why blocked/not run, impact, and next step. Missing evidence is unproven; it is not an observed failure or a pass.
@@ -28,6 +28,18 @@ Use one compact entry per check or a table with these fields:
 
 Keep implementation, verification, deployment, measured outcome, and customer acceptance distinct. A local pass supports the tested local behavior. An acceptance claim needs an attributed source from the agreed decision-maker or agreed acceptance mechanism. Record no raw `<private>` blocks, credentials, or hidden reasoning.
 
+## Operator response
+
+When readiness depends on a failure signal, verify that a representative failure reaches the responsible operator through the intended route in an approved environment. Record separately whether the route is configured, the signal was delivered, and the operator acknowledged it; configuration alone proves neither delivery nor response. Use an authorized test route or an already approved drill, and identify any difference from the intended operating route. Do not page people or trigger production incidents without authorization. Reuse applicable evidence with attribution; a draft guide can mark this check untested.
+
+## Recoverable checkpoint
+
+For substantial work, keep a compact checkpoint in the existing permitted customer or project task record; if none exists, include it in the returned receipt. Reuse existing task/ticket identifiers when available. Record the task and agreed outcome, repository/branch/revision and dirty state, completed work and check results, pending work and checks, current blocker or `none`, and the exact next action. Link existing evidence rather than copying it into a new tracking artifact. Follow the record's write rules; a checkpoint does not silently change agreed scope or acceptance.
+
+In an ongoing engagement, optionally summarize that checkpoint under an unindented `## Implementation checkpoint` heading in the existing `context.md`, with the next action and task-record path/ID first. Follow the engagement confirmation and privacy rules. `fde resume` surfaces this saved summary without opening the referenced task file; retrieve that source only when permitted. Keep one current checkpoint, and clear or explicitly close it when the work ends. Do not initialize `.fde/` for standalone work or copy the whole backlog.
+
+Update it after meaningful completed slices and before a pause or handoff. On resuming, inspect the actual working tree and relevant evidence before taking the recorded next action; stale status is not proof that work or checks are still applicable.
+
 ## Acceptance
 
 A completion statement cites applicable evidence for its claims and explicitly names material gaps. If required checks fail, investigate or report the blocker; never skip them, edit expectations, or relabel the scope without authority to obtain a green result.

package/skills/business-case/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,8 +2,8 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "79249fd92c3c0437954f52c6ff07a0b0e351a588ef84cd1bcc810a9fb3ab7b77",
+    "SKILL.md": "1105f7e78b5e73e54aafb8150e03be8c3ccd3443bc3ae667555763a839c1abe4",
     "references/business-case.md": "32e000e8351cd59f9eaad8be40babb276df69948ea4f81e01a4672e47f48cb25",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/business-case/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Develop a business case for an initiative using costs, benefits, ri
 
 Develop a business case for an initiative using costs, benefits, risks and evidence. Use when a sponsor needs budget or timeline justification.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/business-case.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/business-case.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/business-case/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/connect/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,11 +2,11 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "b2d112f09f663a1f0a7e9bb0fa7cd065ab81e22be6a385cb6afef77b2dd66b08",
+    "SKILL.md": "1bfb43ee4b7d5633d8ce996d4ce3c12a75df09e9bb8457ab35597f48f85b2beb",
     "references/connect.md": "37ad703ece7fe3596be4d5d3697cc4ba5e6062615f9576733c20d055fc3e4927",
     "references/debrief.md": "2d2db9a177f5341a9a2721a9d6ea32a6d07e7e982e621429ca408a38bc5617c1",
     "references/ingest.md": "24880bc3d95cda09ec6c2f5edebd17fba99deb912f93e15c8b715a287283da84",
     "references/source-setup.md": "a28ae7c6dbb2573a66f31b30b7abca34bc52573fe34d48fff4c7490e4dc85d3e",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/connect/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Configure or diagnose access to a requested source using available
 
 Configure or diagnose access to a requested source using available host tools. Use for source MCP setup; source configuration needs no engagement record and credentials stay with the host.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/connect.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/connect.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/connect/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/dashboard/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,8 +2,8 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "4900d14b6d58a0d3277a2a77f1efba5a06bf8c11afbd08500fa5623982b93168",
+    "SKILL.md": "e06df3f2da2586c14e12f2599091231083c0a2f43af70b427c0ab307641610a3",
     "references/dashboard.md": "dd842c17a2689a6017fecf34a6a24ee5cd40f504af4397eaeb2493ef4ffceda0",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/dashboard/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Review the portfolio across existing engagement records. Use for st
 
 Review the portfolio across existing engagement records. Use for status across customers; requires accessible permitted records and does not create missing client histories.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/dashboard.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/dashboard.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/dashboard/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/debrief/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,11 +2,11 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "5710518244d95ab8e1bb55b20718f1ca9bcc087c74a9ef402e6fb53341317e66",
+    "SKILL.md": "f17036d3f4494abf5505a408d23d2b6fb5e7b34e2bc1217eb5f3603fcef1e5e5",
     "references/connect.md": "37ad703ece7fe3596be4d5d3697cc4ba5e6062615f9576733c20d055fc3e4927",
     "references/debrief.md": "2d2db9a177f5341a9a2721a9d6ea32a6d07e7e982e621429ca408a38bc5617c1",
     "references/ingest.md": "24880bc3d95cda09ec6c2f5edebd17fba99deb912f93e15c8b715a287283da84",
     "references/source-setup.md": "a28ae7c6dbb2573a66f31b30b7abca34bc52573fe34d48fff4c7490e4dc85d3e",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec"
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5"
   }
 }

package/skills/debrief/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Turn meeting notes or a transcript into sourced decisions, changes
 
 Turn meeting notes or a transcript into sourced decisions, changes and next actions. Use after a customer conversation; review consequential record updates before saving.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/debrief.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/debrief.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/debrief/references/task-context.md

@@ -18,3 +18,7 @@ Only locate the CLI when the selected task needs it. Check `fde` on PATH and its
 If no permitted executable is available, explain the missing capability. Continue any useful draft from supplied excerpts, but do not claim to have read, switched, staged, saved or rendered real records. Do not read raw private record files as a fallback.
 
 Apply the selected method to this context. Follow its linked supporting methods only when needed; do not restart discovery or repeat already answered questions.
+
+## Identifier masking
+
+Before reading stored engagement content, run `fde privacy` to verify runtime support. If unavailable, stop record access and use the permitted CLI fallback; a new skill alone does not upgrade an older executable. A standalone task using supplied permitted context does not need the CLI. If no executable is available, continue useful work from supplied excerpts and report the record-access limitation. Use CLI context and previews for model input. They mask common email, phone, SSN-shaped, and credential patterns by default; aliases remain consistent within the local engagements root. Preserve complete alias tokens when drafting updates; the CLI resolves them locally. Never read the private `.privacy/` dictionary, sealed sidecars, raw sensitive notes, or local dashboard/vault files to recover an identity. Custom masking additionally hides the literal names or terms the user supplied locally, ignoring letter case and matching whole terms. It does not infer variants or discover names. Names, company names, addresses, and unrecognized formats are otherwise not automatically detected: keep sensitive prose in `<private>` blocks. Direct file tools, pasted chat, and upstream source MCPs bypass this boundary.

package/skills/debug/.fde-generated.json

@@ -2,15 +2,15 @@
   "generator": "bin/generate-skills.js",
   "version": 1,
   "files": {
-    "SKILL.md": "7862670d5c023f0195e0b3fa8b52a3b33796813e53aaad083ae82a9a469e0faa",
-    "references/build.md": "3f8b5e52eb874ee4e99db5e0b70d1ccca1134f667a39279d6b4e55629832ae75",
+    "SKILL.md": "4a5cb9e98910f043bd8f4482540fd68387b45878946379514d4d581cc813c61f",
+    "references/build.md": "7634abd02b70011b7443a65ea3aaf3cb536ed5b051312aed188f46523deea7f9",
     "references/debug.md": "c3bb344d38cc3552cb4e230c601a9be3fe173af2b2efb89aab6b7b04339f24f4",
     "references/eval-pack.md": "0590b85d3cae0903c6b1274540c92eaa2a4373047e8a0548d6942516ef0bb9e1",
     "references/integrate.md": "d0de35a783902ca8b4762e3a42a14f467766d56a928c3a5cf11adac2a6ba90ba",
     "references/qa.md": "d8f58e6d36436469a58aeb1107037f3e27fa81ff5b82d0e4df3c23eeadaf683c",
-    "references/review.md": "63a007f78288089cc84cccc72647e8ce6721b7efa0f4f8d6774c0f0af594749d",
-    "references/ship.md": "8cdcb2d4d6eb57e0adf3f1996bc02ae66920852ca304d2afd778fa483b7e969a",
-    "references/task-context.md": "3c0b0083e63a3e667d80fa7641b10eabf88ee729e877f658580cbc07031834ec",
-    "references/verification.md": "62bb4fb40d9b71c6481c57a4564bcc98c4014a8be5d4aedfe1eb3f7f90d5e1f7"
+    "references/review.md": "55733ca868c00fb22110bc7b3ec7bb6c6451366c795073b19a2bccd30d2764c8",
+    "references/ship.md": "c7fd7774d6ba1f7e9d05b4bfd89bae124bb9bab0079d49c15a025b8b3383f157",
+    "references/task-context.md": "9066514a50043f3ad888d133d4e8b89b7132551e098cf2c80203c458a80126e5",
+    "references/verification.md": "18dfaa97b16e8713a99d9686e3a9fef4e0b9bde0f81c87af8fd73dae588543c2"
   }
 }

package/skills/debug/SKILL.md

@@ -11,7 +11,11 @@ description: Investigate and repair a reproducible failure in a customer integra
 
 Investigate and repair a reproducible failure in a customer integration or application. Use for diagnosis and regression prevention; follow incident authority for live mitigation.
 
-Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md), then [the method](references/debug.md). Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
+Before investigating or acting:
+1. Read [the task context contract](references/task-context.md).
+2. Read [the method](references/debug.md).
+
+Load further references only when the task needs them. Everything linked is included in this skill; no other skill pack is required.
 
 ## Principles
 

package/skills/debug/references/build.md

@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ Use the permitted context and authority in [task context](task-context.md). This
 
 ## Method
 
-1. Identify the repository, its instructions, working tree, relevant callers, and test commands. Inspect examples before creating abstractions. Preserve unrelated edits and state which dependencies or interfaces the change touches. Before changing an untested legacy path, capture the undocumented behavior callers depend on with targeted characterization checks; distinguish behavior to preserve from the intended change.
+1. Identify the repository, its instructions, working tree, relevant callers, and test commands. Inspect examples before creating abstractions. Follow the repository's branch policy and choose any needed checkout isolation according to that policy and overlapping work. Preserve unrelated edits and state which dependencies or interfaces the change touches. Before changing an untested legacy path, capture the undocumented behavior callers depend on with targeted characterization checks; distinguish behavior to preserve from the intended change.
 2. State the observable outcome, constraints, and acceptance checks. Reuse agreed criteria for routine fixes. If a consequential product choice is unresolved, surface that choice while continuing independent investigation; do not invent acceptance.
 3. Choose the smallest coherent path that demonstrates the outcome through the real entry point. Include the necessary storage, error handling, and interface behavior in that slice. Name the failure that stops expansion and the recovery path for stateful changes.
 4. Implement using the repository's tools and conventions. Search for existing services, fixtures, and validation before adding alternatives. Keep cleanup limited to what makes the changed path understandable; do not expand scope to repair unrelated code. When changing dependencies, inspect the package source, requested version, lockfile changes and repository install-script policy before executing package code. Use the approved package manager and bootstrap controls; do not blanket-enable scripts or apply unrelated dependency upgrades.
@@ -15,6 +15,8 @@ Use the permitted context and authority in [task context](task-context.md). This
 
 ## Deliverable and acceptance
 
+For substantial work, maintain the [recoverable checkpoint](verification.md#recoverable-checkpoint) in the existing task record as slices complete or work pauses.
+
 Return the implemented behavior, relevant paths, evidence, remaining limitations, and any decision needed. Done means the agreed checks have applicable evidence and the change is reviewable; passing tests does not imply deployment or customer acceptance. Committing, opening a PR, merging, and publishing happen only when the requested workflow authorizes those actions.
 
 When coordinated through `@fde`, record implementation and verification in the existing decisions/delivery records under their write rules. Standalone work can return the same receipt directly or use the repository's task record.