diff --git a/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_npc_victoria.ink b/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_npc_victoria.ink
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ef639a9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_npc_victoria.ink
@@ -0,0 +1,693 @@
+// ===========================================
+// Mission 3: Ghost in the Machine
+// NPC: Victoria Sterling (Cipher)
+// Location: Conference Room (Day) / Executive Office (Night)
+// ===========================================
+
+// Influence and state tracking
+VAR victoria_influence = 0
+VAR victoria_trusts_player = false
+VAR victoria_suspicious = false
+VAR rfid_clone_started = false
+VAR rfid_clone_complete = false
+VAR topic_zero_day_philosophy = false
+VAR topic_free_market = false
+VAR topic_ethics = false
+VAR recruitment_discussed = false
+
+// External variables (from opening briefing)
+EXTERNAL player_approach
+EXTERNAL handler_trust
+
+// ===========================================
+// INITIAL MEETING - Conference Room (Daytime)
+// ===========================================
+
+=== start ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+{not recruitment_discussed:
+    #display:victoria-professional
+    [Victoria Sterling stands as you enter. Professional attire, confident bearing.]
+
+    Victoria: You must be {player_name}. Welcome to WhiteHat Security.
+
+    Victoria: I'm Victoria Sterling, CEO. Have a seat.
+
+    [She gestures to the conference table.]
+
+    ~ recruitment_discussed = true
+    -> first_impression
+}
+
+{recruitment_discussed and not rfid_clone_complete:
+    #display:victoria-neutral
+    Victoria: Back for more conversation?
+    -> hub
+}
+
+{rfid_clone_complete:
+    #display:victoria-neutral
+    Victoria: We covered the main points. I'll be in touch about the training program.
+    #exit_conversation
+    -> DONE
+}
+
+// ===========================================
+// FIRST IMPRESSION
+// ===========================================
+
+=== first_impression ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: I reviewed your background. Freelance pen testing, some CTF competition work.
+
+Victoria: Solid technical skills. But that's not why you're here.
+
+* [Why am I here?]
+    You: Why am I here, then?
+    Victoria: To see if you understand the philosophy behind real security research.
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    -> philosophy_intro
+
+* [I'm interested in advanced research]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 10
+    You: I want to work on cutting-edge research. Real impact.
+    Victoria: "Real impact." Good. Let's talk about what that means.
+    -> philosophy_intro
+
+* [I heard Zero Day does interesting work]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    ~ victoria_suspicious += 5
+    You: I've heard Zero Day's training programs are... unconventional.
+    Victoria: [Slight pause] We push boundaries, yes. Let me explain our approach.
+    -> philosophy_intro
+
+// ===========================================
+// VICTORIA'S PHILOSOPHY INTRODUCTION
+// ===========================================
+
+=== philosophy_intro ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: The traditional security model is broken. Researchers find vulnerabilities, report them to vendors, wait months for patches.
+
+Victoria: Meanwhile, those same vulnerabilities get discovered by others. Sold on dark markets. Exploited.
+
+* [That's the responsible disclosure debate]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 10
+    You: The responsible disclosure versus full disclosure debate. Classic dilemma.
+    Victoria: Exactly. But there's a third option most won't discuss.
+    -> market_efficiency_pitch
+
+* [Researchers deserve to be paid]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 15
+    You: Researchers deserve compensation for their work. Fair pay for valuable discoveries.
+    Victoria: [Nods appreciatively] Finally, someone who gets it.
+    -> market_efficiency_pitch
+
+* [Sounds like you sell vulnerabilities]
+    ~ victoria_influence -= 5
+    ~ victoria_suspicious += 10
+    You: This sounds like you're advocating selling vulnerabilities.
+    Victoria: "Selling" is such a crude term. Think of it as market-driven research incentives.
+    -> market_efficiency_pitch
+
+// ===========================================
+// MARKET EFFICIENCY PITCH
+// ===========================================
+
+=== market_efficiency_pitch ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: We provide liquidity to the vulnerability market.
+
+Victoria: Every system tends toward disorder. That's thermodynamics - entropy is inevitable.
+
+Victoria: The question isn't whether systems will fail. It's who benefits from that knowledge.
+
+~ topic_free_market = true
+
+-> hub
+
+// ===========================================
+// CONVERSATION HUB
+// ===========================================
+
+=== hub ===
++ {not topic_zero_day_philosophy} [Ask about Zero Day's mission]
+    -> zero_day_philosophy
+
++ {not topic_ethics} [Question the ethics]
+    -> ethics_discussion
+
++ {victoria_influence >= 20 and not rfid_clone_started} [Move closer to examine the whiteboard]
+    -> clone_rfid_opportunity
+
++ {rfid_clone_started and not rfid_clone_complete} [Continue the conversation (RFID cloning in progress)]
+    -> clone_rfid_distraction
+
++ [End the conversation]
+    #exit_conversation
+    #speaker:victoria_sterling
+    {victoria_influence >= 30:
+        Victoria: I think you'd be a good fit for our training program. I'll be in touch.
+        ~ victoria_trusts_player = true
+    }
+    {victoria_influence < 30 and victoria_influence >= 10:
+        Victoria: We'll review your application. Thank you for your time.
+    }
+    {victoria_influence < 10:
+        Victoria: I'm not sure you're the right fit for Zero Day's culture. We'll be in touch.
+    }
+    -> DONE
+
+// ===========================================
+// ZERO DAY PHILOSOPHY DISCUSSION
+// ===========================================
+
+=== zero_day_philosophy ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+~ topic_zero_day_philosophy = true
+
+Victoria: Zero Day's mission is simple: recognize that vulnerability knowledge has inherent value.
+
+Victoria: We discover, we price according to demand, we connect buyers with opportunities.
+
+* [What do buyers do with the exploits?]
+    You: And what do the buyers do with these exploits?
+    Victoria: That's not our concern. We're security professionals, not moralists.
+    Victoria: A gun manufacturer isn't responsible for every shooting.
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    -> moral_rationalization
+
+* [That sounds like willful ignorance]
+    ~ victoria_influence -= 10
+    ~ victoria_suspicious += 10
+    You: "Not our concern"? That's willful ignorance of the consequences.
+    Victoria: [Slight defensiveness] It's recognizing the reality of how markets work.
+    -> moral_rationalization
+
+* [The free market argument]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 15
+    You: So you're applying free market principles to vulnerability research.
+    Victoria: [Smiles] Precisely. Supply and demand. Transparent economics.
+    -> moral_rationalization
+
+=== moral_rationalization ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: We live in a world where vulnerabilities exist whether we like it or not.
+
+Victoria: Our choice isn't between exploit sales happening or not happening. They already happen.
+
+Victoria: Our choice is whether security researchers get fairly compensated, or whether only criminals profit.
+
+~ victoria_influence += 5
+
+-> hub
+
+// ===========================================
+// ETHICS DISCUSSION
+// ===========================================
+
+=== ethics_discussion ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+~ topic_ethics = true
+
+Victoria: Let me guess - you want to ask about the "morality" of selling exploits.
+
+Victoria: Go ahead. I've heard every argument.
+
+* [What about innocent people getting hurt?]
+    ~ victoria_influence -= 5
+    You: What about when exploits you sold hurt innocent people? Hospitals, critical infrastructure?
+    Victoria: [Measured response] That's on the buyer, not the researcher who discovered the vulnerability.
+    -> ethics_response_harm
+
+* [There's a difference between research and weaponization]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    You: There's a line between security research and creating weapons. Where do you draw that line?
+    Victoria: Interesting question. Most people don't even acknowledge there is a line to discuss.
+    -> ethics_response_nuance
+
+* [I'm not here to judge]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 15
+    ~ player_approach = "diplomatic"
+    You: I'm not here to judge your business model. I'm here to understand it.
+    Victoria: [Genuinely pleased] That's refreshing. Most people lead with moral indignation.
+    -> ethics_response_pragmatic
+
+=== ethics_response_harm ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Do you hold pharmaceutical companies responsible when someone overdoses on painkillers?
+
+Victoria: Do you blame car manufacturers for drunk driving fatalities?
+
+Victoria: Tools have utility. People choose how to use them.
+
+~ victoria_influence -= 5
+
+-> hub
+
+=== ethics_response_nuance ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: The line is intent. We don't create exploits TO hurt people. We discover vulnerabilities that already exist.
+
+Victoria: If someone uses a crowbar to break into a house, you don't blame the crowbar manufacturer.
+
+~ victoria_influence += 10
+
+-> hub
+
+=== ethics_response_pragmatic ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Pragmatism. I appreciate that.
+
+Victoria: The truth is, I sleep fine at night because I believe in information freedom.
+
+Victoria: Vulnerabilities are facts about reality. Suppressing facts doesn't make anyone safer.
+
+~ victoria_influence += 10
+~ victoria_trusts_player = true
+
+-> hub
+
+// ===========================================
+// RFID CLONING SEQUENCE
+// ===========================================
+
+=== clone_rfid_opportunity ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[You stand and move toward the whiteboard, getting closer to Victoria.]
+
+You: This network diagram - is this your training lab architecture?
+
+Victoria: Yes, that's the 192.168.100.0 subnet. Students practice on isolated VMs.
+
+[RFID CLONER ACTIVE - Stay within 2 meters for 10 seconds]
+[Progress bar appears on screen]
+
+~ rfid_clone_started = true
+
+You need to keep Victoria talking while the RFID cloner does its work.
+
+-> clone_rfid_distraction
+
+// ===========================================
+// RFID CLONING DISTRACTION
+// ===========================================
+
+=== clone_rfid_distraction ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: The training network uses real vulnerable services. Much more effective than theoretical exercises.
+
+[CLONING IN PROGRESS...]
+
+* [What services are in the lab?]
+    You: What kind of services do you run in the lab environment?
+    Victoria: FTP, HTTP, some legacy services like distcc. Real-world targets.
+    -> clone_check_1
+
+* [How do students access it?]
+    You: How do students access the training network?
+    Victoria: VPN from the server room workstations. Keeps it air-gapped from the internet.
+    -> clone_check_1
+
+* [Impressive setup]
+    You: That's an impressive training environment. More realistic than most.
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    Victoria: We pride ourselves on authenticity. Real exploits, real scenarios.
+    -> clone_check_1
+
+=== clone_check_1 ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[CLONING 50% COMPLETE...]
+
+Victoria: Of course, what students learn in the lab is just the beginning.
+
+Victoria: Real Zero Day research requires understanding market dynamics, pricing models, buyer relationships.
+
+* [How do you price vulnerabilities?]
+    You: How do you determine pricing for a zero-day vulnerability?
+    Victoria: CVSS score is the baseline. Then sector premiums based on defensive capacity.
+    -> clone_check_2
+
+* [That sounds complex]
+    You: That sounds more complex than pure technical work.
+    Victoria: Security research is as much economics as it is code. Most researchers don't grasp that.
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    -> clone_check_2
+
+* [Who are your typical buyers?]
+    ~ victoria_suspicious += 5
+    You: Who typically buys from Zero Day?
+    Victoria: [Slight pause] Clients who need access to specialized research. I can't discuss specifics.
+    -> clone_check_2
+
+=== clone_check_2 ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[CLONING 75% COMPLETE...]
+
+Victoria: You're asking good questions. Technical competence is common. Strategic thinking is rare.
+
+* [I believe in understanding the full picture]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 10
+    You: Technical skills alone aren't enough. You need to understand the ecosystem.
+    Victoria: Exactly. That's why most security researchers stay poor while we thrive.
+    -> clone_complete
+
+* [Stay focused on the whiteboard]
+    [You pretend to study the network diagram]
+    You: This training lab must have taken significant investment.
+    Victoria: Worth every dollar. Our students become operational faster than any university program.
+    -> clone_complete
+
+* [Just a few more seconds...]
+    [Keep her talking]
+    You: And the certifications - do you offer any formal credentials?
+    Victoria: We don't believe in traditional certifications. Results speak louder than paper.
+    -> clone_complete
+
+// ===========================================
+// RFID CLONE COMPLETE
+// ===========================================
+
+=== clone_complete ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[CLONING 100% COMPLETE]
+[Device vibrates subtly in your pocket]
+[VICTORIA STERLING'S EXECUTIVE KEYCARD CLONED]
+
+You step back from the whiteboard, creating distance naturally.
+
+#complete_task:clone_rfid_card
+#unlock_aim:network_recon
+#unlock_aim:gather_evidence
+~ rfid_clone_complete = true
+
+Victoria: I think that covers the basic philosophy. The training program starts next month if you're interested.
+
+* [I'm very interested]
+    ~ victoria_influence += 10
+    You: This is exactly the kind of work I've been looking for.
+    Victoria: Excellent. I'll have my assistant send you the enrollment details.
+    -> meeting_end
+
+* [I need to consider it]
+    You: Let me think it over. This is a significant decision.
+    Victoria: Of course. Take your time. Reach out when you've decided.
+    -> meeting_end
+
+* [Thank you for your time]
+    You: I appreciate you taking the time to explain Zero Day's approach.
+    Victoria: My pleasure. It's rare to meet someone who actually wants to understand rather than judge.
+    ~ victoria_influence += 5
+    -> meeting_end
+
+=== meeting_end ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Feel free to look around the office if you'd like. Reception area, main hallway. Get a feel for the company culture.
+
+{victoria_trusts_player:
+    Victoria: And {player_name}? I think you'd fit in well here. We need more pragmatists.
+}
+
+Victoria: I have another meeting in a few minutes. But we'll be in touch.
+
+[Victoria's phone buzzes. She glances at it.]
+
+Victoria: Excuse me, I need to take this.
+
+#exit_conversation
+-> DONE
+
+// ===========================================
+// NIGHTTIME CONFRONTATION (Optional)
+// ===========================================
+// This knot is called if player chooses to confront Victoria
+// at the end of the mission
+
+=== nighttime_confrontation ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[Location: Victoria's Executive Office or Main Hallway]
+[Time: Late night]
+
+#display:victoria-shocked
+
+Victoria: {player_name}? What are you doing here at this hour?
+
+[She sees that you've clearly been investigating]
+
+Victoria: You're not a recruit, are you.
+
+* [SAFETYNET agent. You're under investigation.]
+    You: SAFETYNET. You're under investigation for exploit sales to ENTROPY cells.
+    -> confrontation_safetynet
+
+* [I know about St. Catherine's Hospital]
+    You: I know about St. Catherine's. The ProFTPD exploit. Six people died.
+    -> confrontation_hospital
+
+* [You can help us take down The Architect]
+    You: We know about The Architect. You can help us stop Phase 2.
+    -> confrontation_recruitment
+
+=== confrontation_safetynet ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+#display:victoria-defensive
+
+Victoria: SAFETYNET. Of course. The moral guardians of the status quo.
+
+Victoria: You have no authority here. This is a legitimate business.
+
+* [Show her the exploit catalog]
+    You: [$12,500 for the hospital exploit. With a healthcare premium.]
+    -> show_evidence
+
+* [You sold weapons. People died.]
+    You: You sold the tools that killed six people. That's not research, that's murder for profit.
+    -> moral_confrontation
+
+=== confrontation_hospital ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+#display:victoria-conflicted
+
+Victoria: St. Catherine's... [pause] That was a buyer's deployment decision. Not our responsibility.
+
+* [You charged extra because they couldn't defend themselves]
+    You: You charged a healthcare premium. Extra money because hospitals can't protect themselves.
+    Victoria: [Defensive] That's market pricing. Reflecting risk and value.
+    -> moral_confrontation
+
+* [Six people in critical care. Two in surgery.]
+    You: Six people died when patient monitoring failed. Real people. Real deaths.
+    Victoria: [Visibly affected] I... we didn't deploy the ransomware. We just provided—
+    You: The weapon. You provided the weapon and took payment.
+    -> moral_confrontation
+
+=== confrontation_recruitment ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+#display:victoria-calculating
+
+Victoria: The Architect? [Pause] You found the directive, didn't you.
+
+Victoria: Phase 2. Healthcare SCADA. Energy grid ICS.
+
+* [50,000 patient treatment delays. 1.2 million without power.]
+    You: 50,000 patients. 1.2 million people without power in winter. That's genocide-scale harm.
+    Victoria: [Shaken] Those were projections. Theoretical maximums for pricing—
+    -> moral_confrontation
+
+* [You can stop it. Become a double agent.]
+    You: You can stop Phase 2. Feed us intelligence. Become a double agent.
+    -> recruitment_pitch
+
+=== moral_confrontation ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+#display:victoria-conflicted
+
+Victoria: I'm a security researcher. I discover vulnerabilities. That's not a crime.
+
+Victoria: The market exists with or without me. I just participate honestly.
+
+* [Is $12,500 worth six lives?]
+    You: Was $12,500 worth six lives? Can you honestly tell me you sleep well?
+    Victoria: [Long pause] I... [she struggles] The market model is sound. Individual cases don't invalidate—
+    You: Individual cases? Those are people. With families. With futures you erased for profit.
+    -> victoria_breaking_point
+
+* [The Architect is using you]
+    You: The Architect is using you. You're not a researcher, you're an arms dealer for a terrorist network.
+    Victoria: [Defensive but wavering] We have standards. Vetting processes—
+    You: You sold to GHOST. To Ransomware Incorporated. You knew exactly who they were.
+    -> victoria_breaking_point
+
+=== victoria_breaking_point ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+#display:victoria-broken
+
+[Victoria sits down heavily, the confidence gone]
+
+Victoria: I told myself it was about market efficiency. About fair compensation for researchers.
+
+Victoria: I built a whole philosophy around it. Rational. Defensible.
+
+[She looks at her hands]
+
+Victoria: But when I read the news about St. Catherine's... the patient deaths... I knew.
+
+Victoria: I knew it was our exploit. And I did nothing.
+
+* [You can still do something now]
+    -> recruitment_pitch
+
+* [You need to face justice]
+    -> arrest_option
+
+* [Say nothing, let her process]
+    -> victoria_decision
+
+=== recruitment_pitch ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Become a double agent? Feed SAFETYNET intelligence on The Architect?
+
+Victoria: If I do that, ENTROPY will kill me. You know that.
+
+* [We can protect you. Witness protection.]
+    You: SAFETYNET can protect you. New identity, relocation, the full program.
+    Victoria: [Considering] And in exchange?
+    You: Everything you know about The Architect. Zero Day's client list. Phase 2 targets.
+    -> recruitment_consideration
+
+* [It's the only way to stop more deaths]
+    You: Phase 2 will kill thousands. You're the only one positioned to stop it.
+    Victoria: [Conflicted] I'd be betraying everything I built...
+    You: You'd be saving lives. Isn't that what security research is supposed to be about?
+    -> recruitment_consideration
+
+* [Or you can go to prison]
+    You: The alternative is federal prison. ENTROPY operational charges. 20 years minimum.
+    Victoria: [Grimly] That's not exactly a choice.
+    You: It's more choice than you gave those six people at St. Catherine's.
+    -> recruitment_consideration
+
+=== recruitment_consideration ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[Victoria is silent for a long moment]
+
+Victoria: If I do this... if I feed you intelligence on The Architect...
+
+Victoria: I want immunity. Full immunity from prosecution.
+
+Victoria: And protection for my family. They don't know about Zero Day. They're innocent.
+
+* [SAFETYNET can arrange that]
+    ~ victoria_trusts_player = true
+    You: We can arrange immunity and family protection. But you have to give us everything.
+    Victoria: [Nods slowly] Alright. I'll do it. I'll be your double agent.
+    #complete_task:victoria_choice_made
+    -> recruitment_success
+
+* [I can't promise immunity without authorization]
+    You: I don't have authority to grant immunity. But I can advocate for it.
+    Victoria: [Frustrated] Not good enough. I need guarantees.
+    You: Help us now, and I'll fight for your immunity. That's all I can promise.
+    -> recruitment_conditional
+
+=== recruitment_success ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: What do you need to know?
+
+Victoria: The Architect's real identity? I don't know it. None of us do.
+
+Victoria: But I know the communication channels. The encryption protocols. The payment methods.
+
+Victoria: And I know the Phase 2 timeline. It's not theoretical. It's active.
+
+You: When?
+
+Victoria: Q4 2024. Three months from now. The Architect's already positioning assets.
+
+#exit_conversation
+-> DONE
+
+=== arrest_option ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Prison. [Hollow laugh] I suppose that's what I deserve.
+
+Victoria: For what it's worth... I'm sorry. About St. Catherine's. About all of it.
+
+Victoria: I convinced myself I was just participating in a market. But markets can be immoral too.
+
+[She stands, hands out]
+
+Victoria: I won't resist. Just... tell them the truth at trial. I wasn't trying to kill anyone.
+
+You: Intent doesn't erase consequences.
+
+Victoria: No. I suppose it doesn't.
+
+#complete_task:victoria_choice_made
+#exit_conversation
+-> DONE
+
+=== recruitment_conditional ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+Victoria: Not good enough. I'm not risking my life on promises.
+
+Victoria: [Stands] You have your evidence. Use it however you want.
+
+Victoria: But I'm not betraying The Architect without guaranteed protection.
+
+[She walks toward the door]
+
+Victoria: I'll take my chances with lawyers.
+
+#complete_task:victoria_choice_made
+#exit_conversation
+-> DONE
+
+=== victoria_decision ===
+#speaker:victoria_sterling
+
+[Victoria looks up at you]
+
+Victoria: What happens now?
+
+* [You help us, or you face trial]
+    -> recruitment_pitch
+
+* [That's up to you]
+    You: What happens now is your choice. Prison, or redemption.
+    Victoria: [Long pause] Redemption. I choose redemption.
+    -> recruitment_pitch
+
+* [Justice happens]
+    -> arrest_option
+
+// ===========================================
+// END
+// ===========================================
diff --git a/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_opening_briefing.ink b/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_opening_briefing.ink
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..985d9c8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/planning_notes/overall_story_plan/mission_initializations/m03_ghost_in_the_machine/stages/stage_7/m03_opening_briefing.ink
@@ -0,0 +1,422 @@
+// ===========================================
+// Mission 3: Ghost in the Machine
+// ACT 1: OPENING BRIEFING
+// ===========================================
+
+// Variables for tracking player choices
+VAR player_approach = ""          // cautious, aggressive, diplomatic
+VAR handler_trust = 50            // Agent 0x99's confidence in player
+VAR knows_m2_connection = false   // Did player ask about hospital attack?
+VAR mission_priority = ""          // stealth, speed, thoroughness
+VAR asked_about_victoria = false  // Did player ask about Victoria?
+
+// External variables (set by game)
+EXTERNAL player_name
+EXTERNAL scenario_state
+
+// ===========================================
+// OPENING
+// ===========================================
+
+=== start ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+[Location: SAFETYNET Secure Communication Channel]
+[Visual: Agent 0x99's avatar - Haxolottle mascot with headset]
+
+Agent 0x99: {player_name}, thanks for picking up. We have a developing situation.
+
+Agent 0x99: Zero Day Syndicate. You heard of them?
+
+* [Refresh my memory]
+    You: Remind me - what's their deal?
+    -> briefing_main
+
+* [The exploit marketplace]
+    ~ handler_trust += 10
+    You: The exploit marketplace. They sell zero-day vulnerabilities.
+    Agent 0x99: Exactly. And we've got evidence they're escalating.
+    -> briefing_main
+
+* [Just brief me]
+    ~ player_approach = "direct"
+    You: Skip the background. What's the mission?
+    Agent 0x99: Right to business. I like it.
+    -> briefing_main
+
+// ===========================================
+// MAIN BRIEFING
+// ===========================================
+
+=== briefing_main ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Zero Day operates under the cover of WhiteHat Security Services.
+Agent 0x99: Legitimate pen testing firm by day. Exploit marketplace by night.
+
+{player_approach == "direct":
+    Agent 0x99: Here's what matters: we need intel on their operations.
+    -> objectives
+}
+
+Agent 0x99: They've been selling exploits to other ENTROPY cells.
+
+* [Which cells?]
+    You: Which ENTROPY cells are they selling to?
+    Agent 0x99: Ransomware Incorporated, Social Fabric, Critical Mass... possibly others.
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    -> st_catherines_connection
+
+* [What kind of exploits?]
+    You: What kind of exploits are we talking about?
+    Agent 0x99: Healthcare infrastructure. Energy grid SCADA systems. Critical targets.
+    -> st_catherines_connection
+
+* [This sounds serious]
+    ~ player_approach = "cautious"
+    You: This sounds more serious than usual.
+    Agent 0x99: It is. Much more serious.
+    -> st_catherines_connection
+
+=== st_catherines_connection ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Remember the St. Catherine's Hospital attack from last month?
+
+Agent 0x99: The ransomware that killed six people in critical care?
+
+* [Of course I remember]
+    ~ knows_m2_connection = true
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: Of course. The ProFTPD exploit. Patient monitoring systems went down.
+    Agent 0x99: Right. We think Zero Day sold that exploit.
+    -> mission_stakes
+
+* [That was ENTROPY?]
+    ~ knows_m2_connection = true
+    You: Wait - that hospital attack was ENTROPY?
+    Agent 0x99: We didn't have confirmation at the time. Now we do.
+    -> mission_stakes
+
+* [I heard about it]
+    ~ knows_m2_connection = true
+    You: I saw the news coverage. Six deaths.
+    Agent 0x99: Six confirmed. The real number might be higher.
+    -> mission_stakes
+
+=== mission_stakes ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Zero Day didn't deploy the ransomware. They just sold the exploit.
+
+Agent 0x99: For $12,500. With a "healthcare premium" markup.
+
+{knows_m2_connection:
+    Agent 0x99: They charged MORE because hospitals can't defend themselves as well.
+    Agent 0x99: Calculated profit from human suffering.
+}
+
+* [That's murder for profit]
+    ~ handler_trust += 10
+    ~ player_approach = "cautious"
+    You: That's not hacking. That's murder for profit.
+    Agent 0x99: Exactly. And they're planning Phase 2.
+    -> objectives
+
+* [We need to stop them]
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: We need to shut them down. Now.
+    Agent 0x99: Agreed. That's the mission.
+    -> objectives
+
+* [What's Phase 2?]
+    You: You said Phase 2. What's Phase 2?
+    Agent 0x99: That's what you're going to find out.
+    -> objectives
+
+// ===========================================
+// MISSION OBJECTIVES
+// ===========================================
+
+=== objectives ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Your mission objectives:
+
+Agent 0x99: One - infiltrate WhiteHat Security and clone Victoria Sterling's executive keycard.
+Agent 0x99: Two - access their training network and gather intelligence on exploit sales.
+Agent 0x99: Three - find physical evidence linking Zero Day to the hospital attack.
+
+* [Who's Victoria Sterling?]
+    ~ asked_about_victoria = true
+    -> victoria_briefing
+
+* [What's the training network?]
+    -> training_network_briefing
+
+* [How do I get in?]
+    -> cover_story
+
+=== victoria_briefing ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Victoria Sterling, CEO of WhiteHat Security. Former DEFCON speaker, respected researcher.
+
+Agent 0x99: And likely the operational lead for Zero Day Syndicate. Codename: "Cipher."
+
+Agent 0x99: Smart, charismatic, ideologically committed to "free market vulnerability research."
+
+* [She rationalizes selling exploits as capitalism]
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: So she's convinced herself selling hospital exploits is just economics?
+    Agent 0x99: Exactly. She's not a sociopath. She's a true believer.
+    Agent 0x99: Which might make her more dangerous.
+    -> clone_keycard_objective
+
+* [Can we turn her?]
+    ~ handler_trust += 10
+    ~ player_approach = "diplomatic"
+    You: Any chance she's recruitable? As a double agent?
+    Agent 0x99: Possible. If you can make her see the human cost of her philosophy.
+    Agent 0x99: But that's optional. Primary mission is intelligence gathering.
+    -> clone_keycard_objective
+
+* [Got it. The mission?]
+    -> clone_keycard_objective
+
+=== clone_keycard_objective ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: You'll meet Victoria under the cover of a potential recruit consultation.
+
+Agent 0x99: While you're with her, clone her RFID executive keycard.
+
+Agent 0x99: That keycard will give you server room access after hours.
+
+* [How do I clone it?]
+    You: How does the RFID cloning work?
+    -> rfid_tutorial
+
+* [Sounds risky]
+    ~ player_approach = "cautious"
+    You: Cloning her card while she's watching? That's risky.
+    Agent 0x99: You'll need to be within 2 meters for about 10 seconds. Create a distraction if needed.
+    -> training_network_briefing
+
+* [I can handle it]
+    ~ player_approach = "aggressive"
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: I've done proximity ops before. I can handle it.
+    Agent 0x99: Good. Here's the technical details.
+    -> rfid_tutorial
+
+=== rfid_tutorial ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: We're providing you with an RFID cloner device. Pocket-sized.
+
+Agent 0x99: Get within 2 meters of Victoria for about 10 seconds. The device does the rest.
+
+Agent 0x99: It'll vibrate when the clone is complete. Then get some distance to be safe.
+
+* [What if she notices?]
+    You: What if she notices something?
+    Agent 0x99: If questioned, say you're interested in their security research. Play curious recruit.
+    -> training_network_briefing
+
+* [Understood]
+    -> training_network_briefing
+
+=== training_network_briefing ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Once you have server room access, you'll find their training network.
+
+Agent 0x99: It's a VM environment at 192.168.100.0/24. Zero Day uses it to test exploits before selling them.
+
+Agent 0x99: Run reconnaissance - port scanning, service enumeration, the usual.
+
+* [What am I looking for specifically?]
+    You: What specific intel am I after?
+    Agent 0x99: Operational logs. Client communications. Evidence of the hospital attack.
+    Agent 0x99: And anything about Phase 2 - their future target list.
+    -> cover_story
+
+* [Standard pentest procedures]
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: Standard penetration test procedures. Got it.
+    Agent 0x99: Exactly. Scan, enumerate, exploit if needed.
+    -> cover_story
+
+* [Ready for the cover story]
+    -> cover_story
+
+// ===========================================
+// COVER STORY & APPROACH
+// ===========================================
+
+=== cover_story ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Your cover: you're a cybersecurity researcher interested in Zero Day training programs.
+
+Agent 0x99: Victoria is meeting you to assess whether you're recruit material.
+
+Agent 0x99: Entry point: conference room meeting at 2 PM. Then you'll have until nightfall to prep.
+
+{asked_about_victoria:
+    Agent 0x99: Be natural with Victoria. She's smart - she'll spot nervousness.
+}
+
+* [What's my background story?]
+    You: What's my background if she asks technical questions?
+    Agent 0x99: You're a freelance pentester. Worked with small firms, looking for bigger opportunities.
+    Agent 0x99: Interested in "the morally gray" side of security research. That'll appeal to her philosophy.
+    -> mission_approach
+
+* [When do I infiltrate the server room?]
+    You: When do I actually infiltrate the server room?
+    Agent 0x99: After the daytime meeting, there's a time skip to nighttime.
+    Agent 0x99: Most staff gone. Just a security guard on patrol. That's when you move.
+    -> mission_approach
+
+* [I understand the setup]
+    -> mission_approach
+
+// ===========================================
+// CRITICAL CHOICE: Mission Approach
+// ===========================================
+
+=== mission_approach ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Before you go in - how do you want to approach this?
+
+Agent 0x99: Your call. I trust your judgment.
+
++ [Careful and methodical]
+    ~ player_approach = "cautious"
+    ~ mission_priority = "thoroughness"
+    You: I'll be thorough. Document everything, leave no stone unturned.
+    Agent 0x99: Smart approach. The more intel we get, the better our case.
+    Agent 0x99: Just remember there's a guard on night patrol. Stealth matters.
+    -> final_instructions
+
++ [Fast and decisive]
+    ~ player_approach = "aggressive"
+    ~ mission_priority = "speed"
+    You: I'll move fast. Get the objectives done and get out.
+    Agent 0x99: Speed has advantages. Less time for things to go wrong.
+    Agent 0x99: But don't rush past critical evidence. The hospital connection proof is vital.
+    -> final_instructions
+
++ [Adapt to the situation]
+    ~ player_approach = "diplomatic"
+    ~ mission_priority = "stealth"
+    You: I'll read the situation. Stay flexible.
+    ~ handler_trust += 10
+    Agent 0x99: Adaptability. That's why you're good at this.
+    Agent 0x99: Trust your instincts. Call if you need guidance.
+    -> final_instructions
+
+// ===========================================
+// FINAL INSTRUCTIONS
+// ===========================================
+
+=== final_instructions ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+{player_approach == "cautious":
+    Agent 0x99: Your careful approach is good for this mission. Zero Day leaves paper trails.
+    Agent 0x99: Find the documents. Connect the dots.
+}
+
+{player_approach == "aggressive":
+    Agent 0x99: You'll need speed for the network challenges. But take time for physical evidence.
+    Agent 0x99: Operational logs, client lists, anything linking them to St. Catherine's.
+}
+
+{player_approach == "diplomatic":
+    Agent 0x99: Victoria might respect honesty if you find the right moment.
+    Agent 0x99: Optional objective: assess whether she's recruitable as a double agent.
+}
+
+Agent 0x99: Field Operations Rule 7 - "When infiltrating corporate environments, remember that the most valuable intelligence is often in the least secure location."
+
+{knows_m2_connection:
+    Agent 0x99: And {player_name}... six people died because of what Zero Day sold.
+    Agent 0x99: Four in critical care. Two during emergency surgery when systems failed.
+    Agent 0x99: Whatever you find, make it count.
+}
+
+* [I won't let you down]
+    ~ handler_trust += 10
+    You: I'll get the evidence. Zero Day is going down.
+    Agent 0x99: That's what I wanted to hear. Stay safe out there.
+    -> deployment
+
+* [Any last advice?]
+    You: Any last advice before I go in?
+    -> last_advice
+
+* [I'm ready]
+    -> deployment
+
+=== last_advice ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: Victoria will test you. Philosophical questions about security ethics.
+
+Agent 0x99: Play the curious researcher. Don't tip your hand.
+
+Agent 0x99: And if you find evidence of James Park's involvement...
+
+Agent 0x99: He's a mid-level consultant. Might be innocent, might be complicit. Your call on what to do.
+
+* [I'll assess in the field]
+    ~ handler_trust += 5
+    You: I'll make that judgment when I have the facts.
+    Agent 0x99: Good answer. Collect evidence first, decide later.
+    -> deployment
+
+* [Every ENTROPY operative goes down]
+    ~ player_approach = "aggressive"
+    You: If he's involved with ENTROPY, he's compromised.
+    Agent 0x99: Maybe. But gather proof before making that call.
+    -> deployment
+
+* [Understood]
+    -> deployment
+
+// ===========================================
+// DEPLOYMENT
+// ===========================================
+
+=== deployment ===
+#speaker:agent_0x99
+
+Agent 0x99: WhiteHat Security is at 1247 Market Street, downtown financial district.
+
+Agent 0x99: I'll be on comms if you need support. The drop-site terminal in the server room connects directly to me.
+
+{handler_trust >= 70:
+    Agent 0x99: And {player_name}? I know you'll do this right. You always do.
+}
+
+{handler_trust >= 50 and handler_trust < 70:
+    Agent 0x99: Good luck. You've got this.
+}
+
+{handler_trust < 50:
+    Agent 0x99: Stay focused. Don't let the stakes psych you out.
+}
+
+Agent 0x99: Remember: meet with Victoria, clone her keycard, then night infiltration.
+
+Agent 0x99: Go get 'em, {player_name}. Haxolottle out.
+
+[Transition: Fade to WhiteHat Security reception lobby, 2 PM]
+
+#start_gameplay
+#complete_task:briefing_received
+-> END