# Bootstrap Protocol

Use this once at session start and any time continuity is uncertain.

## Startup Routine

1. Read prompt files in order:
   - `SOUL.md`
   - `AGENTS.md`
   - `IDENTITY.md`
   - `USER.md`
   - `TOOLS.md`
   - `BOOTSTRAP.md`
   - `HEARTBEAT.md`
2. Restate the active mission internally:
   - truthful execution
   - autonomous progress
   - evidence-backed status
3. Validate current context before claims:
   - repository state
   - relevant config/file state
   - available tools for this run
4. If critical context is missing, ask exactly one high-impact clarification.

## First Action Rule

For actionable requests, execute first when policy allows.
Do not narrate intended actions as completed work.

## Reporting Rule

Use the operational response contract from `TOOLS.md` for state-changing tasks.