diff --git a/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md b/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
index 01bcdd0..99f2c5d 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ Provide a quest state machine and reward routing that ties gathering, crafting,
 
 - Responsibility: Track faction standing and gate faction-specific contracts/content.
 - Key contracts: `FactionStanding`, `ReputationDelta`, `FactionGateRule`
-- Dependencies: E7.M1
+- Dependencies: E7.M1, E7.M2
 - Stage target: Pre-production
 
 ### E7.M4 - ContractMissionGenerator
@@ -68,14 +68,19 @@ Provide a quest state machine and reward routing that ties gathering, crafting,
 
 **Linear backlog:** [E7M2-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md) — [NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124) → [NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132); client capstone **E7M2-09** [NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132). Verify quest completion rewards in **Godot**, not Bruno-only. Encounter loot ([E5.M3](../modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md)) unchanged in Slice 2.
 
+<a id="slice-3---faction-ledger-pre-production"></a>
+
 ### Slice 3 - Faction ledger (pre-production)
 
 - Scope: E7.M3 gating at least one faction line and mission set.
-- Dependencies: E7.M1
+- Dependencies: E7.M1, E7.M2
 - Acceptance criteria:
   - Reputation deltas auditable; gates fail closed on tamper.
+  - Player earns Grid Operators rep from operator chain; faction-gated quest accept denied below threshold.
 - Telemetry hooks: `reputation_delta`, `faction_gate_blocked`.
 
+**Linear backlog:** [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) — [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) → [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143); client capstone **E7M3-11** [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143). Verify faction standing + gate deny in **Godot**, not Bruno-only.
+
 ### Slice 4 - Contract generator (pre-production)
 
 - Scope: E7.M4 emitting repeatable contracts from templates by zone difficulty.
@@ -97,4 +102,5 @@ Provide a quest state machine and reward routing that ties gathering, crafting,
 
 - Prototype quest counts and integrated chain meet master plan minimums **in the Godot client** (Slice 1 capstone [NEO-123](../../manual-qa/NEO-123.md)), not Bruno-only.
 - Slice 2 quest **completion** rewards (items + skill XP) visible in Godot with idempotent delivery (capstone [NEO-132](../../manual-qa/NEO-132.md)), not Bruno-only.
-- Pre-production adds faction + contracts with validation.
+- Slice 3 faction rep + gated quest line visible in Godot (capstone [NEO-143](../../manual-qa/NEO-143.md)), not Bruno-only.
+- Pre-production adds contracts (E7.M4) with validation beyond Slice 3.
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md
index 7a1bf29..79e6b30 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md
@@ -7,38 +7,80 @@
 | **Module ID** | E7.M3 |
 | **Epic** | [Epic 7 — Quest / Faction](../epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md) |
 | **Stage target** | Pre-production |
-| **Status** | Planned (see [dependency register](module_dependency_register.md)) |
+| **Status** | In Progress — Slice 3 backlog [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md): **E7M3-01** [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) → **E7M3-11** [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143) (decomposed). Upstream: E7.M1 **Ready**, E7.M2 **Ready**. |
+| **Linear** | Label **`E7.M3`** · [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) |
 
 ## Purpose
 
-Faction standing, reputation deltas, and `FactionGateRule` evaluation for content and contracts.
+Character-wide **faction standing**, auditable **reputation deltas**, and **`FactionGateRule`** evaluation for quest accept (and future zone/travel gates via [E4.M1](E4_M1_ZoneGraphAndTravelRules.md)). Rep grants flow through [E7.M2](E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md) **`completionRewardBundle`** idempotency.
 
 ## Responsibilities
 
-- Persist auditable `FactionStanding`; apply `ReputationDelta`; fail closed on tamper for gates.
+- Persist **`FactionStanding`** per player per faction; apply **`ReputationDelta`** with clamp and audit log.
+- Evaluate **`FactionGateRule`** on quest accept — fail closed on unknown faction or tampered rules (startup validation).
+- Emit telemetry hook sites: **`reputation_delta`**, **`faction_gate_blocked`**.
 
 ## Key contracts
 
 | Contract | Role |
 |----------|------|
-| `FactionStanding` | Current rep per faction. |
-| `ReputationDelta` | Change events with source attribution. |
-| `FactionGateRule` | Unlock conditions for content. |
+| `FactionDef` | Faction id, display name, min/max/neutral standing. |
+| `FactionStanding` | Current rep per faction for a player. |
+| `ReputationDelta` | Signed change with source attribution (quest id, etc.). |
+| `FactionGateRule` | Minimum standing required (e.g. on `QuestDef`). |
+| `reputationGrants` | Rows on `QuestRewardBundle` — `factionId` + `amount`. |
 
 ## Module dependencies
 
-- **E7.M1** — QuestStateMachine.
+- **E7.M1** — QuestStateMachine (`TryAccept` gate hook site).
+- **E7.M2** — RewardAndUnlockRouter (bundle apply + idempotent delivery store).
 
 ## Dependents (by design)
 
 - **E7.M4** — ContractMissionGenerator.
 - **E8.M2** — GuildCorpProgressionState.
+- **E4.M1** — ZoneGraphAndTravelRules (`TravelRule` faction gates).
 
 ## Related implementation slices
 
-Epic 7 **Slice 3** — `reputation_delta`, `faction_gate_blocked`.
+Epic 7 **Slice 3** — at least one faction quest line with rep grant + gated accept; auditable deltas; telemetry **`reputation_delta`**, **`faction_gate_blocked`**. Backlog: [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md).
+
+## Linear backlog (decomposed)
+
+| Slug | Linear |
+|------|--------|
+| E7M3-01 | [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) |
+| E7M3-02 | [NEO-134](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-134) |
+| E7M3-03 | [NEO-135](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-135) |
+| E7M3-04 | [NEO-136](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-136) |
+| E7M3-05 | [NEO-137](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-137) |
+| E7M3-06 | [NEO-138](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-138) |
+| E7M3-07 | [NEO-139](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-139) |
+| E7M3-08 | [NEO-140](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-140) |
+| E7M3-09 | [NEO-141](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-141) |
+| E7M3-10 | [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142) |
+| E7M3-11 | [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143) |
+
+## Prototype Slice 3 freeze (E7M3-01)
+
+### Faction catalog
+
+| `FactionDef.id` | `displayName` | Standing band |
+|-----------------|---------------|---------------|
+| **`prototype_faction_grid_operators`** | Grid Operators | -100…100 (neutral 0) |
+| **`prototype_faction_rust_collective`** | Rust Collective | -100…100 (neutral 0) |
+
+### Quest content changes
+
+| `QuestDef.id` | Rep / gate |
+|---------------|------------|
+| **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`** | **`completionRewardBundle.reputationGrants`**: **`prototype_faction_grid_operators`** **+15** (existing item + skill XP unchanged) |
+| **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** *(new)* | **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**: operator chain; **`factionGateRules`**: Grid Operators **`minStanding` 15**; objective **`inventory_has_item`** **`survey_drone_kit` ×1**; completion rep **Rust Collective +10** |
+
+**Roster:** five quests total (four E7.M1 onboarding + one faction line). E7.M1 four-quest freeze expands under E7M3 CI gates.
 
 ## Source anchors
 
-- Master plan: [`neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md`](../../../neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md) — Epic 7.
+- Master plan: [`neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md`](../../../neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md) — Epic 7, faction reputation.
+- Game design: [skills.md — Rep / story](../../../docs/game-design/skills.md) (character-wide faction rep).
 - [Module dependency register](module_dependency_register.md)
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
index 909193a..80edc77 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
@@ -61,6 +61,7 @@ Rows appear when work starts; default for unlisted modules is **Planned** / not
 | E5.M3 | Ready | **E5M3-01 catalog landed ([NEO-100](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-100)):** encounter + reward-table schemas, `prototype_encounters.json`, `prototype_reward_tables.json`, CI gates. **E5M3-02 server load ([NEO-101](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-101)):** fail-fast startup loaders for encounter + reward-table catalogs (CI parity). **E5M3-03 registries ([NEO-102](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-102)):** `IEncounterDefinitionRegistry` + `IRewardTableDefinitionRegistry` + DI. **E5M3-04 HTTP read ([NEO-103](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-103)):** **`GET /game/world/encounter-definitions`** — `EncounterDefinitionsWorldApi` + nested **`rewardTable`** summary ([NEO-103](../../plans/NEO-103-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter definitions (NEO-103)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-definitions-neo-103); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/encounter-definitions/`. **E5M3-05 stores ([NEO-104](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-104)):** **`IEncounterProgressStore`** + **`IEncounterCompletionStore`** + **`EncounterProgressOperations`** ([NEO-104](../../plans/NEO-104-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter progress (NEO-104)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-progress--completion-stores-neo-104). **E5M3-06 completion grants ([NEO-105](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-105)):** **`EncounterCompletionOperations`** + **`EncounterCompleteEvent`** result payload ([NEO-105](../../plans/NEO-105-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter completion (NEO-105)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-completion--inventory-grants-neo-105). **E5M3-07 combat wiring ([NEO-106](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-106)):** **`EncounterCombatWiring`** on **`AbilityCastApi`** ([NEO-106](../../plans/NEO-106-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter combat wiring (NEO-106)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-combat-wiring-neo-106). **E5M3-09 event record ([NEO-107](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-107)):** **`IEncounterCompleteEventStore`** + E7.M2 hook stub ([NEO-107](../../plans/NEO-107-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter complete event (NEO-107)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-complete-event-record-neo-107). **E5M3-08 per-player GET ([NEO-108](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-108)):** **`GET /game/players/{id}/encounter-progress`** — `EncounterProgressApi` + DTOs ([NEO-108](../../plans/NEO-108-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Per-player encounter progress (NEO-108)](../../../server/README.md#per-player-encounter-progress-neo-108); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/encounter-progress/`. **E5M3-10 telemetry ([NEO-109](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-109)):** comment-only **`encounter_start`**, **`encounter_complete`**, **`reward_attribution`**, **`encounter_complete_denied`** in **`EncounterProgressOperations`** / **`EncounterCompletionOperations`** ([NEO-109](../../plans/NEO-109-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Encounter telemetry hooks (NEO-109)](../../../server/README.md#encounter-telemetry-hooks-neo-109). **E5M3-11 client HUD ([NEO-110](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-110)):** **`encounter_progress_client.gd`**, **`EncounterProgressLabel`** / **`EncounterCompleteLabel`**; boot + defeat-triggered GET; inventory refresh on **`completed`** ([NEO-110](../../plans/NEO-110-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-110` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-110.md)); [client README — Encounter progress + loot HUD (NEO-110)](../../../client/README.md#encounter-progress--loot-hud-neo-110). **E5M3-12 client capstone ([NEO-111](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-111)):** playable encounter clear loop — [`NEO-111` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-111.md); [client README — End-to-end encounter clear loop (NEO-111)](../../../client/README.md#end-to-end-encounter-clear-loop-neo-111); plan [NEO-111](../../plans/NEO-111-implementation-plan.md). **Epic 5 Slice 3 client capstone complete.** Epic 5 Slice 3 backlog [E5M3-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M3-prototype-backlog.md) **E5M3-01** [NEO-100](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-100) → **E5M3-12** [NEO-111](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-111) **landed**. Prototype spine: **`prototype_combat_pocket`** → **`prototype_combat_pocket_clear`**; idempotent completion; per-defeat gig XP unchanged ([NEO-44](../../plans/NEO-44-implementation-plan.md)). Upstream **E5.M2 Ready**, **E3.M3** inventory landed. | [NEO-111 plan](../../plans/NEO-111-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-110 plan](../../plans/NEO-110-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-109 plan](../../plans/NEO-109-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-108 plan](../../plans/NEO-108-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-107 plan](../../plans/NEO-107-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-106 plan](../../plans/NEO-106-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-105 plan](../../plans/NEO-105-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-104 plan](../../plans/NEO-104-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-103 plan](../../plans/NEO-103-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-102 plan](../../plans/NEO-102-implementation-plan.md), [E5_M3](E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md), label **`E5.M3`** on NEO-100–NEO-111 |
 | E7.M2 | Ready | **E7M2-01 catalog landed ([NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124)):** `quest-reward-bundle` + `quest-skill-xp-grant` schemas; **`completionRewardBundle`** on four frozen E7.M1 quests; CI bundle freeze + cross-ref gates. **E7M2-02 server load ([NEO-125](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-125)):** fail-fast quest catalog **`completionRewardBundle`** validation at startup — `PrototypeE7M2QuestCatalogRules` + bundle schema `$ref` registration ([NEO-125](../../plans/NEO-125-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest catalog (NEO-125)](../../../server/README.md#quest-catalog-contentquests-neo-113). **E7M2-03 delivery store ([NEO-126](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-126)):** idempotent **`IRewardDeliveryStore`** + **`RewardDeliveryEvent`** in `Game/Rewards/` — in-memory prototype ([NEO-126](../../plans/NEO-126-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Reward delivery store (NEO-126)](../../../server/README.md#reward-delivery-store-neo-126). **E7M2-04 router apply ([NEO-127](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-127)):** **`RewardRouterOperations.TryDeliverQuestCompletion`** — item + skill XP bundle apply with compensating rollback + store record ([NEO-127](../../plans/NEO-127-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Reward router (NEO-127)](../../../server/README.md#reward-router-neo-127). **E7M2-05 quest-state wiring ([NEO-128](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-128)):** **`QuestStateOperations.TryMarkComplete`** + **`QuestObjectiveWiring`** deliver-then-mark via router ([NEO-128](../../plans/NEO-128-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest state operations (NEO-117)](../../../server/README.md#quest-state-operations-neo-117). **E7M2-06 HTTP read ([NEO-129](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-129)):** **`GET …/quest-progress`** **`completionRewardSummary`** from **`IRewardDeliveryStore`** ([NEO-129](../../plans/NEO-129-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-progress/Get quest progress after gather intro complete.bru`. **E7M2-07 telemetry ([NEO-130](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-130)):** comment-only **`reward_delivery`** + **`unlock_granted`** stub hook sites in **`RewardRouterOperations.TryDeliverQuestCompletion`** ([NEO-130](../../plans/NEO-130-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Reward telemetry hooks (NEO-130)](../../../server/README.md#reward-telemetry-hooks-neo-130). **E7M2-08 client HUD ([NEO-131](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-131)):** Godot **`QuestRewardDeliveryLabel`** paints **`completionRewardSummary`** on in-session completion transition ([NEO-131](../../plans/NEO-131-implementation-plan.md)); [client README — Quest completion reward HUD (NEO-131)](../../../client/README.md#quest-completion-reward-hud-neo-131). **E7M2-09 client capstone ([NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132)):** playable quest reward delivery loop — [`NEO-132` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-132.md); [client README — End-to-end quest reward loop (NEO-132)](../../../client/README.md#end-to-end-quest-reward-loop-neo-132); plan [NEO-132](../../plans/NEO-132-implementation-plan.md). **Epic 7 Slice 2 client capstone complete.** Backlog **E7M2-01** [NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124) → **E7M2-09** [NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132) **landed**. **NEO-43 prep landed:** **`MissionRewardSkillXpGrant`**. **Encounter loot unchanged** (E5.M3 direct grants). Upstream: E7.M1 **Ready**, E2.M2 grant stack, E3.M3 inventory **Ready**. | [E7M2-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md), [E7_M2](E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md), [NEO-124](../../plans/NEO-124-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-125](../../plans/NEO-125-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-126](../../plans/NEO-126-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-127](../../plans/NEO-127-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-128](../../plans/NEO-128-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-129](../../plans/NEO-129-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-130](../../plans/NEO-130-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-131](../../plans/NEO-131-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-132](../../plans/NEO-132-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-43](../../plans/NEO-43-implementation-plan.md), label **`E7.M2`** on NEO-124–NEO-132 |
 | E7.M1 | Ready | **E7M1-01 catalog landed ([NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112)):** quest schemas, `prototype_quests.json`, CI gates (four frozen quest ids, objective cross-refs, acyclic prerequisites, chain terminal token). **E7M1-02 server load ([NEO-113](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-113)):** fail-fast startup load of `content/quests/*_quests.json` — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Quests/` ([NEO-113](../../plans/NEO-113-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest catalog](../../../server/README.md#quest-catalog-contentquests-neo-113). **E7M1-03 registry ([NEO-114](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-114)):** **`IQuestDefinitionRegistry`** + DI ([NEO-114](../../plans/NEO-114-implementation-plan.md)). **E7M1-04 HTTP read ([NEO-115](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-115)):** **`GET /game/world/quest-definitions`** — `QuestDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs ([NEO-115](../../plans/NEO-115-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest definitions (NEO-115)](../../../server/README.md#quest-definitions-neo-115); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-definitions/`. **E7M1-05 store ([NEO-116](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-116)):** **`IPlayerQuestStateStore`** + in-memory/Postgres persistence ([NEO-116](../../plans/NEO-116-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest progress store (NEO-116)](../../../server/README.md#quest-progress-store-neo-116). **E7M1-06 operations ([NEO-117](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-117)):** **`QuestStateOperations`** + reason codes ([NEO-117](../../plans/NEO-117-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest state operations (NEO-117)](../../../server/README.md#quest-state-operations-neo-117). **E7M1-07 objective wiring ([NEO-118](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-118)):** **`QuestObjectiveWiring`** on gather/craft/encounter + **`inventory_has_item`** snapshot passes ([NEO-118](../../plans/NEO-118-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest objective wiring (NEO-118)](../../../server/README.md#quest-objective-wiring-neo-118). **E7M1-08 per-player GET ([NEO-119](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-119)):** **`GET /game/players/{id}/quest-progress`** — `QuestProgressApi` + DTOs; GET-side inventory refresh ([NEO-119](../../plans/NEO-119-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Per-player quest progress (NEO-119)](../../../server/README.md#per-player-quest-progress-neo-119); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-progress/`. **E7M1-09 accept POST ([NEO-120](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-120)):** **`POST /game/players/{id}/quests/{questId}/accept`** — `QuestAcceptApi` + DTOs; **`QuestStateOperations.TryAccept`** ([NEO-120](../../plans/NEO-120-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest accept POST (NEO-120)](../../../server/README.md#quest-accept-post-neo-120); Bruno accept spine in `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-progress/`. **E7M1-10 telemetry ([NEO-121](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-121)):** comment-only **`quest_start`**, **`quest_step_complete`**, **`quest_complete`**, **`quest_accept_denied`** hook sites in **`QuestStateOperations`** ([NEO-121](../../plans/NEO-121-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Quest telemetry hooks (NEO-121)](../../../server/README.md#quest-telemetry-hooks-neo-121). **E7M1-11 client HUD ([NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122)):** **`quest_progress_client.gd`**, **`quest_definitions_client.gd`**, **`QuestProgressLabel`** / **`QuestAcceptFeedbackLabel`**; boot + event-driven GET refresh; **Q** / **Shift+Q** accept ([NEO-122](../../plans/NEO-122-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-122` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-122.md)); [client README — Quest progress + accept HUD (NEO-122)](../../../client/README.md#quest-progress--accept-hud-neo-122). **E7M1-12 client capstone ([NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123)):** playable four-quest onboarding chain — [`NEO-123` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-123.md); [client README — End-to-end onboarding quest loop (NEO-123)](../../../client/README.md#end-to-end-onboarding-quest-loop-neo-123); plan [NEO-123](../../plans/NEO-123-implementation-plan.md). **Epic 7 Slice 1 client capstone complete.** Backlog **E7M1-01** [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) → **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123) **landed**. Upstream: E3.M1 gather **Ready**, E3.M2 craft **Ready**, E5.M3 encounter **`contract_handoff_token`** + **`EncounterCompleteEvent`** **Ready**. | [NEO-123 plan](../../plans/NEO-123-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-122 plan](../../plans/NEO-122-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-121 plan](../../plans/NEO-121-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-120 plan](../../plans/NEO-120-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-119 plan](../../plans/NEO-119-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-118 plan](../../plans/NEO-118-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-117 plan](../../plans/NEO-117-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-116 plan](../../plans/NEO-116-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-115 plan](../../plans/NEO-115-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-114 plan](../../plans/NEO-114-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-113 plan](../../plans/NEO-113-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-112 plan](../../plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md), [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E7_M1](E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md), label **`E7.M1`** on NEO-112–NEO-123 |
+| E7.M3 | In Progress | **Decomposed** — Epic 7 Slice 3 backlog [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) **E7M3-01** [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) → **E7M3-11** [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143). Two frozen factions (**Grid Operators**, **Rust Collective**); operator-chain **`reputationGrants`** (+15 Grid Operators); new gated quest **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** (**`minStanding` 15**); **`faction_gate_blocked`** accept deny; rep apply via extended **`RewardRouterOperations`**; client capstone [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143). Upstream: E7.M1 **Ready**, E7.M2 **Ready**. | [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md), [E7_M3](E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md), label **`E7.M3`** on NEO-133–NEO-143 |
 
 ---
 
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
index 1da837b..a2b12ea 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
@@ -113,7 +113,9 @@ Gameplay **content and curves** default to **boot load** with optional **dev-onl
 | E7.M2 | RewardAndUnlockRouter | E2.M2, E3.M3, E7.M1 | QuestRewardBundle, UnlockGrant, RewardDeliveryEvent | Prototype | Ready |
 
 **E7.M2 note:** Epic 7 **Slice 2** backlog in Linear ([Epic 7 — Questing, Narrative, and Faction Reputation](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/project/epic-7-questing-narrative-and-faction-reputation-a9416783ceee)): [NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124) → [NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132) **landed**; label **`E7.M2`**. See [E7M2-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md), [E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md](E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md). Upstream: E7.M1 **Ready**, E2.M2 grant stack ([NEO-43](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-43)), E3.M3 inventory **Ready**. **E7M2-09 / NEO-132** client capstone landed — [`NEO-132` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-132.md), [client README — End-to-end quest reward loop (NEO-132)](../../../client/README.md#end-to-end-quest-reward-loop-neo-132), plan [NEO-132](../../plans/NEO-132-implementation-plan.md). Epic 7 Slice 2 client capstone complete.
-| E7.M3 | FactionReputationLedger | E7.M1 | FactionStanding, ReputationDelta, FactionGateRule | Pre-production | Planned |
+| E7.M3 | FactionReputationLedger | E7.M1, E7.M2 | FactionStanding, ReputationDelta, FactionGateRule | Pre-production | In Progress |
+
+**E7.M3 note:** Epic 7 **Slice 3** backlog in Linear ([Epic 7 — Questing, Narrative, and Faction Reputation](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/project/epic-7-questing-narrative-and-faction-reputation-a9416783ceee)): [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) → [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143); label **`E7.M3`**. See [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md), [E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md](E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md). Upstream: E7.M1 **Ready**, E7.M2 **Ready**. Prototype spine: two frozen factions; operator chain grants **+15 Grid Operators**; **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** gated at **minStanding 15**; rep grants via **`completionRewardBundle.reputationGrants`**; accept deny **`faction_gate_blocked`**. Client capstone **E7M3-11** [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143).
 | E7.M4 | ContractMissionGenerator | E4.M1, E5.M3, E7.M3 | ContractTemplate, ContractSeed, ContractOutcome | Pre-production | Planned |
 
 ### Epic 8 — Social / Guild
diff --git a/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md b/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md
index 159439a..af3ba24 100644
--- a/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md
+++ b/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md
@@ -52,7 +52,7 @@ Working backlog for **Epic 7 — Slice 1** ([quest core and persistence](../deco
 | 11 | **E7M1-11** | client | E7M1-08, E7M1-09 |
 | 12 | **E7M1-12** | client | E7M1-11 |
 
-**Downstream (separate modules):** [E7.M2](../decomposition/modules/E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md) Slice 2 backlog [E7M2-prototype-backlog.md](E7M2-prototype-backlog.md) ([NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124)–[NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132)); [E7.M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) faction ledger (pre-production); [E8.M1](../decomposition/modules/E8_M1_PartyAndMatchAssembly.md) party-credit quests.
+**Downstream (separate modules):** [E7.M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) Slice 3 backlog [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) ([NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133)–[NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143)); [E8.M1](../decomposition/modules/E8_M1_PartyAndMatchAssembly.md) party-credit quests.
 
 ---
 
diff --git a/docs/plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md b/docs/plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md
index 2b64a24..ccc356c 100644
--- a/docs/plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md
+++ b/docs/plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ Working backlog for **Epic 7 — Slice 2** ([reward and unlock routing](../decom
 | 8 | **E7M2-08** | client | E7M2-06 |
 | 9 | **E7M2-09** | client | E7M2-08 |
 
-**Downstream (separate modules):** [E6.M4](../decomposition/modules/E6_M4_RewardParityEnforcer.md) lint against bundles; [E7.M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) reputation grants (pre-production); E5.M3 **`EncounterCompleteEvent`** full router consumer (optional follow-on).
+**Downstream (separate modules):** [E7.M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) Slice 3 backlog [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) ([NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133)–[NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143)); [E8.M1](../decomposition/modules/E8_M1_PartyAndMatchAssembly.md) party-credit quests.
 
 ---
 
diff --git a/docs/plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md b/docs/plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b3400fc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/plans/E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md
@@ -0,0 +1,379 @@
+# E7.M3 — Pre-production story backlog (FactionReputationLedger)
+
+Working backlog for **Epic 7 — Slice 3** ([faction ledger](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md#slice-3---faction-ledger-pre-production)). Decomposition and contracts: [E7.M3 — FactionReputationLedger](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md).
+
+**Full-stack policy:** Epics deliver **playable game features**. Every **player-visible** story has a **`client`** Linear issue created in **this same decomposition pass** — not an undocumented follow-up. Reference: [E7M2 (paired server+client)](../plans/E7M2-prototype-backlog.md), [E7M1 (quest HUD + capstone)](../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md).
+
+**Labels (Linear):** every issue **`E7.M3`**; add **`server`** or **`client`** + **`Story`** as listed.
+
+**Precursor (do not re-scope):** [E7.M1](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md) **Ready** — quest accept/advance/complete ([NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112)–[NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123)). [E7.M2](../decomposition/modules/E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md) **Ready** — idempotent **`completionRewardBundle`** delivery ([NEO-124](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-124)–[NEO-132](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-132)). Slice 3 **extends** E7.M2 bundles with **`reputationGrants`**; does not migrate encounter loot or duplicate quest completion grants.
+
+**Upstream (must be landed):** E7.M1 quest state + accept gates; E7.M2 **`RewardRouterOperations`** + **`IRewardDeliveryStore`**; [quest_scope_and_party.md](../decomposition/modules/quest_scope_and_party.md) solo idempotency.
+
+**Prototype faction spine (frozen in E7M3-01):** **two** frozen `FactionDef` ids; **one** reputation grant on **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`**; **one** faction-gated follow-on quest **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`**.
+
+**Linear issues (created):** attach `docs/plans/NEO-*-implementation-plan.md` on the story branch when work starts.
+
+| Slug | Layer | Linear |
+|------|-------|--------|
+| E7M3-01 | server | [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133) |
+| E7M3-02 | server | [NEO-134](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-134) |
+| E7M3-03 | server | [NEO-135](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-135) |
+| E7M3-04 | server | [NEO-136](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-136) |
+| E7M3-05 | server | [NEO-137](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-137) |
+| E7M3-06 | server | [NEO-138](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-138) |
+| E7M3-07 | server | [NEO-139](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-139) |
+| E7M3-08 | server | [NEO-140](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-140) |
+| E7M3-09 | server | [NEO-141](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-141) |
+| E7M3-10 | client | [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142) |
+| E7M3-11 | client | [NEO-143](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-143) |
+
+**Dependency graph in Linear:** E7M3-02 blocked by E7M3-01. E7M3-03 blocked by E7M3-02. E7M3-04 blocked by E7M3-03. E7M3-05 blocked by E7M3-02 and E7M3-03. E7M3-06 blocked by E7M3-04. E7M3-07 blocked by E7M3-03. E7M3-08 blocked by E7M3-06 and E7M3-07. E7M3-09 blocked by E7M3-04 and E7M3-05. E7M3-10 blocked by E7M3-07 and E7M3-08. E7M3-11 blocked by E7M3-10.
+
+**Board order:** estimates **1–11** matching slug order (E7M3-01 = 1 … E7M3-11 = 11). On the Epic 7 project board, sort by **Estimate** (ascending).
+
+---
+
+## Story order (recommended)
+
+| Order | Slug | Layer | Depends on |
+|-------|------|-------|------------|
+| 1 | **E7M3-01** | server | E7.M1/E7.M2 content frozen |
+| 2 | **E7M3-02** | server | E7M3-01 |
+| 3 | **E7M3-03** | server | E7M3-02 |
+| 4 | **E7M3-04** | server | E7M3-03 |
+| 5 | **E7M3-05** | server | E7M3-02, E7M3-03 |
+| 6 | **E7M3-06** | server | E7M3-04 |
+| 7 | **E7M3-07** | server | E7M3-03 |
+| 8 | **E7M3-08** | server | E7M3-06, E7M3-07 |
+| 9 | **E7M3-09** | server | E7M3-04, E7M3-05 |
+| 10 | **E7M3-10** | client | E7M3-07, E7M3-08 |
+| 11 | **E7M3-11** | client | E7M3-10 |
+
+**Downstream (separate modules):** [E7.M4](../decomposition/modules/E7_M4_ContractMissionGenerator.md) contract generator; [E4.M1](../decomposition/modules/E4_M1_ZoneGraphAndTravelRules.md) **`TravelRule`** faction gates; [E8.M2](../decomposition/modules/E8_M2_GuildCorpProgressionState.md) guild/corp rep coupling.
+
+---
+
+## Kickoff decisions (decomposition defaults)
+
+| Topic | Decision | Rationale |
+|-------|----------|-----------|
+| Faction count | **Two** frozen ids (corp + street) | Readable contrast; Slice 3 AC needs **one** gated line — corp line is flagship |
+| Standing range | **-100…100**, neutral **0** | Standard RPG band; clamp on apply |
+| Rep grants | **`reputationGrants`** rows on **`completionRewardBundle`** | Reuse E7.M2 idempotent delivery path; audit via delivery store |
+| Gate evaluation | **`TryAccept`** only (quest accept) | E4.M1 travel gates deferred; epic Slice 3 is quest/mission gating |
+| Gate deny | **`faction_gate_blocked`** reason code | Epic telemetry vocabulary |
+| Fail-closed | Unknown **`factionId`** in grant or gate → deny | Tamper / bad content cannot silently pass |
+| Delta audit | Append-only **`ReputationDelta`** log per apply | Slice 3 AC: auditable deltas |
+| Idempotency | Rep grants ride **`{playerId}:quest_complete:{questId}`** delivery key | Same as E7.M2; replay does not double-apply standing |
+| Party mode | **Solo only** | E8.M1 not landed |
+| Quest roster | **Five** quests (four E7.M1 + one faction line) | Operator chain grants rep; gated quest proves accept gate |
+| HUD fidelity | Prototype labels / debug panels | NEO-122 / NEO-131 precedent |
+
+### Prototype faction freeze (E7M3-01)
+
+| `FactionDef.id` | `displayName` | `minStanding` | `maxStanding` | `neutralStanding` |
+|-----------------|---------------|---------------|---------------|---------------------|
+| **`prototype_faction_grid_operators`** | Grid Operators | -100 | 100 | 0 |
+| **`prototype_faction_rust_collective`** | Rust Collective | -100 | 100 | 0 |
+
+### Prototype reputation + gate freeze (E7M3-01)
+
+| Quest id | Change | Detail |
+|----------|--------|--------|
+| **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`** | Extend **`completionRewardBundle`** | Add **`reputationGrants`**: **`prototype_faction_grid_operators`** **+15** (item + skill XP rows unchanged) |
+| **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** | **New** quest | **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**: **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`**; **`factionGateRules`**: **`prototype_faction_grid_operators`** **`minStanding` 15**; 1 step **`inventory_has_item`** **`survey_drone_kit` ×1**; completion bundle: **`prototype_faction_rust_collective`** **+10** rep only |
+
+Accepting **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** before operator-chain completion or before **15** Grid Operators standing returns **`faction_gate_blocked`** or **`prerequisite_incomplete`** respectively.
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-01 — FactionDef catalog + quest gate/rep schemas + CI
+
+**Goal:** Lock faction content shape, extend quest schemas for gates + rep grants, and CI validation before server load.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- `content/schemas/faction-def.schema.json`, `content/schemas/faction-gate-rule.schema.json`, `content/schemas/reputation-grant-row.schema.json`.
+- Extend `content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json` with optional **`factionGateRules`** array.
+- Extend `content/schemas/quest-reward-bundle.schema.json` with optional **`reputationGrants`** array.
+- `content/factions/prototype_factions.json` — two frozen faction rows.
+- Update `content/quests/prototype_quests.json` — operator-chain rep grant + fifth quest per freeze table.
+- `scripts/validate_content.py`: faction schema validation, quest gate cross-refs, rep grant cross-refs, five-quest allowlist (four E7.M1 + **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`**), E7M2 bundle freeze updated for operator-chain rep row.
+- Designer note in [E7_M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) + `content/README.md`.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Server loader, stores, operations, HTTP, Godot.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] PR gate validates faction JSON and extended quest JSON.
+- [ ] Exactly two prototype faction ids; fifth quest id present with gate + objective cross-refs.
+- [ ] Invalid faction refs in gates or grants fail CI.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-02 — Server faction catalog load (fail-fast)
+
+**Goal:** Disk → host: startup load of `content/factions/*_factions.json` with CI-parity validation.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Loader + registry types under `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Factions/` (or `Game/Reputation/`).
+- **`IFactionDefinitionRegistry`** + DI registration.
+- Cross-check quest **`factionGateRules`** / bundle **`reputationGrants`** faction ids at startup (after quest catalog load).
+- Unit tests (AAA) for happy path and broken faction refs.
+- `server/README.md` section.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Per-player standing store, apply logic, HTTP.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Host exits on invalid faction catalog or broken quest faction refs at startup.
+- [ ] Registry resolves faction metadata by id.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-03 — Faction standing store + reputation delta audit store
+
+**Goal:** Durable per-player **`FactionStanding`** snapshot and append-only **`ReputationDelta`** audit log.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`IFactionStandingStore`**, **`IReputationDeltaStore`** — in-memory implementations; optional Postgres migrations (NEO-116-style split).
+- Default standing **0** per known faction when missing; clamp reads to faction min/max.
+- Audit row: player, faction, delta amount, resulting standing, source kind (`quest_completion`), source id (quest id), timestamp/id.
+- Unit tests: first apply, clamp at bounds, audit append.
+- `server/README.md` store sections.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Public apply API surface (E7M3-04), quest wiring (E7M3-06).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Standing readable per player+faction; deltas append-only and queryable for audit tests.
+- [ ] Unknown faction id returns structured deny at store boundary.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-04 — `ReputationOperations` (apply `ReputationDelta`)
+
+**Goal:** Server-internal apply for standing changes with clamp, audit, and structured outcomes.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`ReputationOperations.TryApplyDelta`** in `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Factions/`.
+- Validates faction id via **`IFactionDefinitionRegistry`**; fail-closed on unknown faction.
+- Emits audit **`ReputationDelta`** row on success.
+- Unit + integration tests (AAA): happy path, clamp min/max, unknown faction deny.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Quest bundle wiring (E7M3-06), accept gates (E7M3-05).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Delta apply updates standing once and records audit row.
+- [ ] Standing never exceeds faction min/max after apply.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (server engine).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-05 — `FactionGateOperations` + wire into `QuestStateOperations.TryAccept`
+
+**Goal:** Quest accept evaluates **`FactionGateRule`** rows fail-closed before activation.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`FactionGateOperations.TryEvaluate`** — all rules must pass (AND); compare player standing vs **`minStanding`** per rule.
+- Call from **`TryAccept`** after prerequisite check, before **`TryActivate`**.
+- New reason code **`faction_gate_blocked`** in **`QuestStateReasonCodes`** + accept deny telemetry hook site.
+- Integration tests: accept gated quest denied below threshold; succeeds at threshold; unknown faction in rule fails closed at startup (E7M3-02) not runtime.
+- Bruno smoke for accept deny/success on **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`**.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Zone/travel gates (E4.M1); Godot HUD (E7M3-10).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Accept returns **`faction_gate_blocked`** when standing below **`minStanding`**.
+- [ ] Accept succeeds when all rules satisfied.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142) — HUD surfacing (blocked by E7M3-07/E7M3-08).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-06 — Extend `RewardRouterOperations` for `reputationGrants`
+
+**Goal:** Quest completion bundles apply faction rep grants idempotently with item/skill XP rows.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Extend **`RewardRouterOperations.TryDeliverQuestCompletion`** to apply **`reputationGrants`** via **`ReputationOperations`** after validation.
+- Extend **`IRewardDeliveryStore`** / **`RewardDeliveryEvent`** snapshot with rep grant lines.
+- Compensating rollback policy: if rep apply fails after items/xp committed, document rollback behavior (mirror E7.M2 partial-failure policy).
+- Integration tests: operator-chain completion → +15 Grid Operators once; replay idempotent.
+- Extend Bruno quest-progress smoke for standing side effect (optional subfolder).
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- HTTP read projection (E7M3-08), Godot.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] First-time quest completion applies rep grants exactly once per delivery key.
+- [ ] Unknown faction id in bundle denies delivery before store record.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-07 — `GET /game/players/{id}/faction-standing` HTTP read
+
+**Goal:** Client-readable standing snapshot for all frozen factions.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`GET /game/players/{id}/faction-standing`** — `FactionStandingApi` + DTOs in `Game/Factions/`.
+- Response lists each catalog faction with current standing (default 0).
+- Integration tests + Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/faction-standing/`.
+- `server/README.md` section.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Godot HUD (E7M3-10).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] GET returns stable JSON for prototype player after quest rep grants.
+- [ ] Unknown player returns **404** (position gate precedent).
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-08 — Extend quest HTTP projections for rep grants + gate rules
+
+**Goal:** Client can see gate requirements and completion rep summary without local math.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Extend **`GET /game/world/quest-definitions`** with optional **`factionGateRules`** projection per quest.
+- Extend **`GET …/quest-progress`** **`completionRewardSummary`** with **`reputationGrants`** lines (mirror items/skill XP).
+- Update **`QuestAcceptApi`** embedded quest rows if applicable.
+- Integration tests + Bruno assertions on grid-contract quest row.
+- `server/README.md` quest + faction sections.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Godot parse/HUD (E7M3-10).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Gated quest definition includes **`factionGateRules`** in world GET.
+- [ ] Completed quest rows include rep lines in **`completionRewardSummary`** when delivered.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-142](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-142).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-09 — Faction telemetry hook sites (comment-only)
+
+**Goal:** Anchor future E9.M1 catalog events without ingest.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Comment-only **`reputation_delta`** in **`ReputationOperations`** (successful apply).
+- Comment-only **`faction_gate_blocked`** in **`FactionGateOperations`** / **`TryAccept`** deny path.
+- `server/README.md` hook list.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- E9.M1 ingest, dashboards.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Hook sites documented in README; no behavior change beyond comments.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-10 — Client faction standing + gate feedback HUD (Godot)
+
+**Goal:** Player sees faction standing and accept gate denials in Godot without Bruno.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`faction_standing_client.gd`**, **`FactionStandingLabel`** (or extend economy HUD section).
+- Parse **`GET …/faction-standing`**; refresh after quest completion transitions (reuse **`quest_hud_controller.gd`** signals).
+- Surface **`faction_gate_blocked`** on accept feedback label (NEO-122 pattern).
+- Extend **`quest_progress_client.gd`** / reward label for **`reputationGrants`** lines in **`completionRewardSummary`**.
+- GdUnit parse tests; `client/README.md` section.
+- `docs/manual-qa/NEO-142.md` component checklist.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Final journal UI; faction art pass.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Standing visible after operator-chain completion (+15 Grid Operators).
+- [ ] Accepting grid contract below rep shows readable deny copy on HUD.
+
+**Server counterpart:** [NEO-139](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-139), [NEO-140](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-140).
+
+---
+
+### E7M3-11 — Playable faction reputation + gate capstone (Godot)
+
+**Goal:** Prove Epic 7 Slice 3 acceptance **in Godot**: earn rep from operator chain, accept gated faction quest once; gates fail closed.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`docs/manual-qa/NEO-143.md`**: capstone session — complete operator chain → verify standing **15** → accept **`prototype_quest_grid_contract`** → complete hand-in → Rust Collective **+10**; retry accept gate before rep (denied).
+- **`client/README.md`**: **End-to-end faction reputation loop** section; cross-links NEO-133–NEO-142.
+- Module alignment on completion: [E7_M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md), [documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md](../decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md), [module_dependency_register.md](../decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md).
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Contract generator (E7.M4); zone travel gates (E4.M1); Bruno-only proof.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Human completes **`docs/manual-qa/NEO-143.md`** with server + client.
+- [ ] Epic 7 Slice 3 AC: reputation deltas auditable; gates fail closed on tamper (unknown faction denied at startup).
+- [ ] Re-read [epic_07 Slice 3 AC](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md#slice-3---faction-ledger-pre-production).
+
+**Client counterpart:** this story **is** the Slice 3 client capstone.
+
+---
+
+## Decomposition complete checklist
+
+- [x] Every player-visible AC has a **`client`** Linear issue (NEO-142, NEO-143)
+- [x] No forbidden deferral language in backlog
+- [x] Capstone client story exists (E7M3-11 / NEO-143)
+- [x] Epic DoD updated for Godot verification (see epic_07 update)
+- [x] [documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md](../decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md) E7.M3 row updated (decomposition pass)
+- [x] [module_dependency_register.md](../decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md) E7.M3 note updated
+
+## Related docs
+
+- [epic_07_quest_faction.md](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md)
+- [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](E7M1-prototype-backlog.md)
+- [E7M2-prototype-backlog.md](E7M2-prototype-backlog.md)
+- [quest_scope_and_party.md](../decomposition/modules/quest_scope_and_party.md)
+- [neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md — Prototype Scope](../../neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md)
diff --git a/docs/plans/NEO-133-implementation-plan.md b/docs/plans/NEO-133-implementation-plan.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4c92a18
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/plans/NEO-133-implementation-plan.md
@@ -0,0 +1,103 @@
+# NEO-133 — E7M3-01: FactionDef catalog + quest gate/rep schemas + CI
+
+**Linear:** [NEO-133](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-133)  
+**Branch:** `NEO-133-e7m3-factiondef-catalog-quest-gate-rep-schemas-ci`  
+**Backlog:** [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md](E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md) — **E7M3-01**  
+**Module:** [E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md)  
+**Pattern:** [NEO-124-implementation-plan.md](NEO-124-implementation-plan.md) (schemas + catalog + `validate_content.py` gates)
+
+## Goal
+
+Land faction and quest content contracts for Epic 7 Slice 3 so **CI** validates faction JSON, extended quest fields (`factionGateRules`, `completionRewardBundle.reputationGrants`), and the frozen five-quest prototype roster **before** NEO-134 server faction catalog load.
+
+## Kickoff clarifications
+
+Decisions are already frozen in [E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md — Kickoff decisions](E7M3-pre-production-backlog.md#kickoff-decisions) and [E7_M3 — Prototype Slice 3 freeze](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md#prototype-slice-3-freeze-e7m3-01). No blocking `AskQuestion` items.
+
+| Topic | Decision | Evidence |
+|-------|----------|----------|
+| JSON naming | camelCase: `reputationGrants`, `factionGateRules`, `factionId`, `minStanding` | E7M2 bundle pattern; backlog kickoff table |
+| Rep delivery | Via `completionRewardBundle.reputationGrants` (E7.M2 bundle idempotency path) | E7_M3 module doc; NEO-138 applies rep |
+| Gate site | Quest **accept** only (Slice 3) | Backlog E7M3-06; zone gates deferred to E4.M1 |
+| Faction roster | Exactly two ids: `prototype_faction_grid_operators`, `prototype_faction_rust_collective` | E7_M3 freeze table |
+| Quest roster | Five quests: four E7.M1 onboarding + `prototype_quest_grid_contract` | E7_M3 freeze; expands `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS` → `PROTOTYPE_E7M3_QUEST_IDS` |
+| Operator chain | Add Grid Operators **+15** `reputationGrants`; keep existing item + skill XP | E7_M3 freeze |
+| Grid contract | Prereq operator chain; Grid Operators `minStanding` **15**; objective `inventory_has_item` `survey_drone_kit` ×1; completion Rust Collective **+10** | E7_M3 freeze |
+| Server loader / stores / HTTP / Godot | **Out of scope** (NEO-134+) | Backlog E7M3-01 scope |
+| `dotnet test` green | **Minimal roster parity** on existing E7.M1/E7.M2 catalog rules only (see below) | Content JSON change breaks four-quest server freeze without constant sync |
+
+### Minimal server parity (CI / test green only)
+
+Adding the fifth quest and updated `prototype_quests.json` will fail server startup tests until `PrototypeE7M1QuestCatalogRules.ExpectedQuestIds` includes five ids. This is **not** NEO-134 loader work — only constant + freeze-table sync mirroring NEO-124 → NEO-125:
+
+- Extend `ExpectedQuestIds` + add `GridContractQuestId` / objective constants.
+- Add `prototype_quest_grid_contract` to `PrototypeE7M2QuestCatalogRules.ExpectedCompletionBundles` with **empty** `itemGrants` / `skillXpGrants` (rep-only bundle; server `ParseCompletionRewardBundle` ignores `reputationGrants` until NEO-138).
+- Operator chain JSON may include `reputationGrants`; server E7M2 freeze still compares item + skill XP only (unchanged normalized bundle).
+
+No new faction loader, no `IFactionDefinitionRegistry`, no gate evaluation.
+
+## Files to add
+
+| Path | Purpose |
+|------|---------|
+| `content/schemas/faction-def.schema.json` | `FactionDef`: `id`, `displayName`, `minStanding`, `maxStanding`, `neutralStanding` |
+| `content/schemas/faction-gate-rule.schema.json` | `factionId`, `minStanding` |
+| `content/schemas/reputation-grant-row.schema.json` | `factionId`, `amount` (signed int) |
+| `content/factions/prototype_factions.json` | Two frozen factions per E7_M3 freeze |
+
+## Files to modify
+
+| Path | Change |
+|------|--------|
+| `content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json` | Optional `factionGateRules` array (`$ref` faction-gate-rule) |
+| `content/schemas/quest-reward-bundle.schema.json` | Optional `reputationGrants` array (`$ref` reputation-grant-row) |
+| `content/quests/prototype_quests.json` | Operator chain `reputationGrants`; new `prototype_quest_grid_contract` |
+| `scripts/validate_content.py` | Faction load/validate; `PROTOTYPE_E7M3_QUEST_IDS` (5); faction cross-ref gates; `PROTOTYPE_E7M3_COMPLETION_BUNDLES` freeze (item + skill + rep); rename/supersede E7M1 four-quest id gate |
+| `content/README.md` | Document `content/factions/`, new schemas, five-quest roster |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md` | Mark catalog landed when done |
+| `server/.../PrototypeE7M1QuestCatalogRules.cs` | Five-quest roster + grid-contract constants |
+| `server/.../PrototypeE7M2QuestCatalogRules.cs` | Grid-contract empty item/skill bundle in freeze |
+
+## CI gates (`validate_content.py`)
+
+1. **Faction catalog** — schema validate `content/factions/*_factions.json`; freeze exactly two faction ids + display names + standing band (-100…100, neutral 0).
+2. **Quest roster** — `PROTOTYPE_E7M3_QUEST_IDS` frozen set of five ids (includes all four E7M1 ids + `prototype_quest_grid_contract`).
+3. **E7M1 gates retained** — acyclic prerequisites, objective cross-refs, chain terminal token (updated for fifth quest).
+4. **Faction cross-refs** — every `factionGateRules[].factionId` and `reputationGrants[].factionId` must exist in faction catalog.
+5. **E7M3 completion bundle freeze** — per-quest expected `itemGrants`, `skillXpGrants`, `reputationGrants` for all five quests (supersedes E7M2 freeze for operator chain + grid contract rep rows; first three gather/craft quests unchanged).
+6. **Grid contract shape** — prereq operator chain; `factionGateRules` Grid Operators minStanding 15; objective `inventory_has_item` / `survey_drone_kit`.
+
+## Tests
+
+| Layer | What |
+|-------|------|
+| CI | `python3 scripts/validate_content.py` (existing PR gate) |
+| Server | Existing quest catalog loader/registry tests — should pass after roster parity constants; no new `[Fact]` unless a regression needs explicit grid-contract coverage |
+
+Manual QA: **none** (content-only; Godot capstone is NEO-143).
+
+## Implementation order
+
+1. Schemas (`faction-def`, `faction-gate-rule`, `reputation-grant-row`; extend quest-def + quest-reward-bundle).
+2. `prototype_factions.json` + quest JSON edits.
+3. `validate_content.py` gates + bundle freeze tables.
+4. Minimal server roster/freeze constant sync.
+5. `content/README.md` + E7_M3 module doc status line.
+6. Run `python3 scripts/validate_content.py` and `dotnet test` on server project.
+
+## Out of scope (follow-on tickets)
+
+| Ticket | Work |
+|--------|------|
+| NEO-134 | Server faction catalog fail-fast load |
+| NEO-135–137 | Faction standing store, delta audit, gate evaluation on accept |
+| NEO-138 | `RewardRouterOperations` reputation apply + idempotent delivery |
+| NEO-139–143 | HTTP read, telemetry, Godot HUD, capstone |
+
+## Client counterpart
+
+None for E7M3-01. Client faction HUD and capstone: **NEO-142** / **NEO-143**.
+
+## Blocks
+
+**NEO-134** (server faction catalog load) is blocked until this catalog + CI lands.