diff --git a/content/README.md b/content/README.md
index 0017067..6c9f3d8 100644
--- a/content/README.md
+++ b/content/README.md
@@ -13,6 +13,7 @@ Data-driven definitions (skills, items, recipes, quests) validated in CI with **
 | [`npc-behaviors/`](npc-behaviors/) | NPC behavior archetype catalogs; each row matches [`schemas/npc-behavior-def.schema.json`](schemas/npc-behavior-def.schema.json) — **stable `id`**, **`archetypeKind`**, aggro/leash radii, telegraph + attack timings for [E5.M2](../docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M2_NpcAiAndBehaviorProfiles.md) |
 | [`encounters/`](encounters/) | Encounter templates; each row matches [`schemas/encounter-def.schema.json`](schemas/encounter-def.schema.json) — **stable `id`**, completion criteria, **`rewardTableId`** for [E5.M3](../docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md) |
 | [`reward-tables/`](reward-tables/) | Reward table catalogs; each row matches [`schemas/reward-table.schema.json`](schemas/reward-table.schema.json) — **stable `id`**, **`fixedGrants`** referencing frozen item ids for [E5.M3](../docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md) |
+| [`quests/`](quests/) | Quest catalogs; each row matches [`schemas/quest-def.schema.json`](schemas/quest-def.schema.json) (steps via [`quest-step-def.schema.json`](schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json), objectives via [`quest-objective-def.schema.json`](schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json)) — **stable `id`**, **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**, step/objective graph for [E7.M1](../docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md) |
 | [`resource-nodes/`](resource-nodes/) | Resource node + yield catalogs; node rows match [`schemas/resource-node-def.schema.json`](schemas/resource-node-def.schema.json), yield rows match [`schemas/resource-yield-row.schema.json`](schemas/resource-yield-row.schema.json) — **stable `nodeDefId`**, **`gatherLens`**, **`maxGathers`** for [E3.M1](../docs/decomposition/modules/E3_M1_ResourceNodeAndGatherLoop.md) |
 
 **Prototype Slice 1 (NEO-33):** CI expects **exactly three** skill rows with ids **`salvage`**, **`refine`**, **`intrusion`** (gather + process + tech). Each row must declare **`allowedXpSourceKinds`** (non-empty); see [E2.M1 — Designer note: `allowedXpSourceKinds`](../docs/decomposition/modules/E2_M1_SkillDefinitionRegistry.md#designer-note-allowedxpsourcekinds-and-grant-call-sites) for what each kind means for grant wiring.
@@ -29,6 +30,8 @@ Data-driven definitions (skills, items, recipes, quests) validated in CI with **
 
 **Prototype E5 Slice 3 — encounters + rewards (NEO-100):** CI expects **exactly one** encounter id **`prototype_combat_pocket`** and one reward table id **`prototype_combat_pocket_clear`** aligned to [E5.M3 encounter freeze](../docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md#prototype-slice-3-freeze-e5m3-01). **`requiredNpcInstanceIds`** must match the three E5.M2 NPC instance ids; **`fixedGrants`** reference frozen item ids only. **Do not rename** ids after ship—change **`displayName`** only. See [E5M3-prototype-backlog.md](../docs/plans/E5M3-prototype-backlog.md).
 
+**Prototype E7 Slice 1 — quests (NEO-112):** CI expects **exactly four** quest ids aligned to [E7.M1 quest freeze](../docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md#prototype-slice-1-freeze-e7m1-01) — **`prototype_quest_gather_intro`**, **`prototype_quest_refine_intro`**, **`prototype_quest_combat_intro`**, **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`**. Objective **`itemId`** / **`recipeId`** / **`encounterId`** cross-refs must resolve to frozen item, recipe, and encounter catalogs; **`prerequisiteQuestIds`** must be acyclic and reference known quest ids; operator chain terminal step is **`inventory_has_item`** **`contract_handoff_token`** ×1. **Do not rename** quest `id` after ship—change **`displayName`** only. See [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md) and [NEO-112 plan](../docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md).
+
 **Prototype Slice 4 (NEO-45):** CI expects **exactly one** `MasteryTrack` for **`salvage`** only (`refine` / `intrusion` have no mastery rows yet). Tier 1 @ skill level **2** is a **mutually exclusive** branch pick (`scrap_efficiency` vs `bulk_haul`) with **no** perks; tier 2 @ level **4** unlocks one perk per branch path. **Do not rename** `branchId` / `perkId` after ship—change `displayName` only. See [E2.M3 — Designer note](../docs/decomposition/modules/E2_M3_MasteryAndPerkUnlocks.md#designer-note-tiers-branches-and-level-gates) and [freeze table](../docs/decomposition/modules/E2_M3_MasteryAndPerkUnlocks.md#prototype-slice-4-freeze--salvage-flagship-neo-45).
 
 Server load path and hot-reload policy are TBD; keep files versioned here as the source of truth.
diff --git a/content/quests/prototype_quests.json b/content/quests/prototype_quests.json
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..bdc3857
--- /dev/null
+++ b/content/quests/prototype_quests.json
@@ -0,0 +1,120 @@
+{
+  "schemaVersion": 1,
+  "quests": [
+    {
+      "id": "prototype_quest_gather_intro",
+      "displayName": "Intro: Salvage Run",
+      "prerequisiteQuestIds": [],
+      "steps": [
+        {
+          "id": "gather_intro_step_salvage",
+          "displayName": "Gather scrap metal",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "gather_intro_obj_scrap",
+              "kind": "gather_item",
+              "itemId": "scrap_metal_bulk",
+              "quantity": 3
+            }
+          ]
+        }
+      ]
+    },
+    {
+      "id": "prototype_quest_refine_intro",
+      "displayName": "Intro: Refine Stock",
+      "prerequisiteQuestIds": ["prototype_quest_gather_intro"],
+      "steps": [
+        {
+          "id": "refine_intro_step_craft",
+          "displayName": "Refine scrap",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "refine_intro_obj_recipe",
+              "kind": "craft_recipe",
+              "recipeId": "refine_scrap_standard",
+              "quantity": 1
+            }
+          ]
+        }
+      ]
+    },
+    {
+      "id": "prototype_quest_combat_intro",
+      "displayName": "Intro: Clear the Pocket",
+      "prerequisiteQuestIds": [],
+      "steps": [
+        {
+          "id": "combat_intro_step_encounter",
+          "displayName": "Clear the combat pocket",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "combat_intro_obj_encounter",
+              "kind": "encounter_complete",
+              "encounterId": "prototype_combat_pocket"
+            }
+          ]
+        }
+      ]
+    },
+    {
+      "id": "prototype_quest_operator_chain",
+      "displayName": "Operator Chain",
+      "prerequisiteQuestIds": [
+        "prototype_quest_gather_intro",
+        "prototype_quest_refine_intro",
+        "prototype_quest_combat_intro"
+      ],
+      "steps": [
+        {
+          "id": "chain_step_gather",
+          "displayName": "Bulk salvage",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "chain_obj_gather",
+              "kind": "gather_item",
+              "itemId": "scrap_metal_bulk",
+              "quantity": 5
+            }
+          ]
+        },
+        {
+          "id": "chain_step_refine",
+          "displayName": "Refine stock",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "chain_obj_refine",
+              "kind": "craft_recipe",
+              "recipeId": "refine_scrap_standard",
+              "quantity": 1
+            }
+          ]
+        },
+        {
+          "id": "chain_step_stim",
+          "displayName": "Craft field stim",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "chain_obj_stim",
+              "kind": "craft_recipe",
+              "recipeId": "make_field_stim_mk0",
+              "quantity": 1
+            }
+          ]
+        },
+        {
+          "id": "chain_step_token",
+          "displayName": "Hand off contract token",
+          "objectives": [
+            {
+              "id": "chain_obj_token",
+              "kind": "inventory_has_item",
+              "itemId": "contract_handoff_token",
+              "quantity": 1
+            }
+          ]
+        }
+      ]
+    }
+  ]
+}
diff --git a/content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json b/content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..557ca9d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json
@@ -0,0 +1,37 @@
+{
+  "$schema": "https://json-schema.org/draft/2020-12/schema",
+  "$id": "https://neon-sprawl.local/schemas/quest-def.json",
+  "title": "QuestDef",
+  "description": "Single quest row for catalogs (e.g. content/quests/*_quests.json). IDs are stable forever—rename display in displayName only. See docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md.",
+  "type": "object",
+  "additionalProperties": false,
+  "required": ["id", "displayName", "prerequisiteQuestIds", "steps"],
+  "properties": {
+    "id": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Immutable quest key for accept/progress APIs and telemetry."
+    },
+    "displayName": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "minLength": 1,
+      "description": "Player-facing label; safe to change without migrating character data."
+    },
+    "prerequisiteQuestIds": {
+      "type": "array",
+      "items": {
+        "type": "string",
+        "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$"
+      },
+      "description": "Quest ids that must be completed before accept; may be empty."
+    },
+    "steps": {
+      "type": "array",
+      "minItems": 1,
+      "items": {
+        "$ref": "https://neon-sprawl.local/schemas/quest-step-def.json"
+      },
+      "description": "Ordered steps; prototype Slice 1 uses sequential advance only."
+    }
+  }
+}
diff --git a/content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json b/content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..190c12e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json
@@ -0,0 +1,59 @@
+{
+  "$schema": "https://json-schema.org/draft/2020-12/schema",
+  "$id": "https://neon-sprawl.local/schemas/quest-objective-def.json",
+  "title": "QuestObjectiveDef",
+  "description": "Single objective row on a QuestStepDef (content/quests/*_quests.json). Kinds cover gather, craft, encounter, and inventory checks for E7.M1 prototype Slice 1.",
+  "type": "object",
+  "additionalProperties": false,
+  "required": ["id", "kind"],
+  "properties": {
+    "id": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Immutable objective key for progress tracking and HTTP projection."
+    },
+    "kind": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "enum": ["gather_item", "craft_recipe", "encounter_complete", "inventory_has_item"],
+      "description": "Objective completion predicate evaluated server-side on success hooks."
+    },
+    "itemId": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Frozen item catalog id (gather_item, inventory_has_item)."
+    },
+    "quantity": {
+      "type": "integer",
+      "minimum": 1,
+      "description": "Required count for gather_item, craft_recipe, or inventory_has_item."
+    },
+    "recipeId": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Frozen recipe catalog id (craft_recipe)."
+    },
+    "encounterId": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Frozen encounter catalog id (encounter_complete)."
+    }
+  },
+  "oneOf": [
+    {
+      "properties": { "kind": { "const": "gather_item" } },
+      "required": ["itemId", "quantity"]
+    },
+    {
+      "properties": { "kind": { "const": "craft_recipe" } },
+      "required": ["recipeId", "quantity"]
+    },
+    {
+      "properties": { "kind": { "const": "encounter_complete" } },
+      "required": ["encounterId"]
+    },
+    {
+      "properties": { "kind": { "const": "inventory_has_item" } },
+      "required": ["itemId", "quantity"]
+    }
+  ]
+}
diff --git a/content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json b/content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e7ea489
--- /dev/null
+++ b/content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json
@@ -0,0 +1,29 @@
+{
+  "$schema": "https://json-schema.org/draft/2020-12/schema",
+  "$id": "https://neon-sprawl.local/schemas/quest-step-def.json",
+  "title": "QuestStepDef",
+  "description": "Single step row on a QuestDef (content/quests/*_quests.json). Steps advance sequentially in prototype Slice 1.",
+  "type": "object",
+  "additionalProperties": false,
+  "required": ["id", "displayName", "objectives"],
+  "properties": {
+    "id": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "pattern": "^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$",
+      "description": "Immutable step key for progress tracking and HTTP projection."
+    },
+    "displayName": {
+      "type": "string",
+      "minLength": 1,
+      "description": "Player-facing label; safe to change without migrating character data."
+    },
+    "objectives": {
+      "type": "array",
+      "minItems": 1,
+      "items": {
+        "$ref": "https://neon-sprawl.local/schemas/quest-objective-def.json"
+      },
+      "description": "Objectives that must complete before the step advances."
+    }
+  }
+}
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md b/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
index 9791736..02bfe0e 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md
@@ -46,14 +46,18 @@ Provide a quest state machine and reward routing that ties gathering, crafting,
 
 ## Implementation Slices (Backlog-Ready)
 
+<a id="epic-7-slice-1"></a>
+
 ### Slice 1 - Quest core and persistence
 
 - Scope: E7.M1 supporting branching steps and failure/reset rules for prototype chain.
-- Dependencies: E3.M2, E5.M1
+- Dependencies: E3.M2, E5.M1 (gather/craft/encounter hooks on main)
 - Acceptance criteria:
   - 3-5 onboarding quests + one chain requiring gather/craft/combat complete without duped rewards.
 - Telemetry hooks: `quest_start`, `quest_step_complete`, `quest_complete`, funnel times.
 
+**Linear backlog:** [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md) — [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) → [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123); client capstone **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123). Verify in **Godot**, not Bruno-only.
+
 ### Slice 2 - Reward and unlock routing
 
 - Scope: E7.M2 delivering XP, items, blueprint unlocks, and flags for world gates.
@@ -85,7 +89,9 @@ Provide a quest state machine and reward routing that ties gathering, crafting,
 - Risk: Rewards break parity or economy.
   - Mitigation: Lint bundles against E6.M4 and E3.M5 policies.
 
+<a id="epic-7-definition-of-done"></a>
+
 ## Definition of Done
 
-- Prototype quest counts and integrated chain meet master plan minimums.
+- 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.
 - Pre-production adds faction + contracts with validation.
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md
index 1e89efd..44458c8 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md
@@ -59,6 +59,8 @@ Content tooling **Slice 1** — schemas + CI; **Slice 4** — server parity hard
 
 **Encounter catalogs ([NEO-100](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-100)):** the same script validates each row in `content/encounters/*_encounters.json` against [`content/schemas/encounter-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/encounter-def.schema.json), rejects **duplicate `id`** across files, cross-checks **`rewardTableId`** against reward table catalogs, and (E5 Slice 3) enforces the **frozen one-encounter** id set (`prototype_combat_pocket`) with **`requiredNpcInstanceIds`** matching the three E5.M2 NPC instance ids.
 
+**Quest catalogs ([NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112)):** the same script validates each row in `content/quests/*_quests.json` against [`content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json) (steps via [`quest-step-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json), objectives via [`quest-objective-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json)), rejects **duplicate `id`** across files and duplicate step/objective ids within a quest, cross-checks objective **`itemId`** / **`recipeId`** / **`encounterId`** against frozen item, recipe, and encounter catalogs, enforces **acyclic `prerequisiteQuestIds`**, and (E7 Slice 1) enforces the **frozen four-quest** id set with operator chain terminal **`inventory_has_item`** **`contract_handoff_token`** ×1.
+
 **Decomposition vocabulary:** the same workflow runs [`scripts/check_decomposition_language.py`](../../../scripts/check_decomposition_language.py) (stdlib only) over `docs/decomposition/**/*.md` to catch wording that treats **combat** as a leveled **`SkillDef`** line instead of **gig** progression (see script docstring for patterns). Adjust the script if a future doc needs a documented exception.
 
 ## Source anchors
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md
index 5b9f225..c639563 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md
@@ -7,7 +7,8 @@
 | **Module ID** | E7.M1 |
 | **Epic** | [Epic 7 — Quest / Faction](../epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md) |
 | **Stage target** | Prototype |
-| **Status** | Planned (see [dependency register](module_dependency_register.md)) |
+| **Status** | Planned — Slice 1 backlog [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md): **E7M1-01** [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) catalog **landed** (schemas + CI); runtime from **E7M1-02** [NEO-113](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-113) → capstone **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123) |
+| **Linear** | Label **`E7.M1`** · [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md) |
 
 ## Purpose
 
@@ -45,6 +46,40 @@ Data-driven quest lifecycle: start, step progression, branching, failure/reset,
 
 See Epic 7 **Slice 1 — Quest core and persistence**: 3–5 onboarding quests plus one chain across gather/craft/combat; telemetry `quest_start`, `quest_step_complete`, `quest_complete`, funnel times.
 
+## Linear backlog (decomposed)
+
+Full story tables, kickoff defaults, and **`blockedBy` graph:** [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md).
+
+| Slug | Linear |
+|------|--------|
+| E7M1-01 | [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) |
+| E7M1-02 | [NEO-113](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-113) |
+| E7M1-03 | [NEO-114](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-114) |
+| E7M1-04 | [NEO-115](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-115) |
+| E7M1-05 | [NEO-116](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-116) |
+| E7M1-06 | [NEO-117](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-117) |
+| E7M1-07 | [NEO-118](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-118) |
+| E7M1-08 | [NEO-119](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-119) |
+| E7M1-09 | [NEO-120](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-120) |
+| E7M1-10 | [NEO-121](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-121) |
+| E7M1-11 | [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) |
+| E7M1-12 | [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123) |
+
+## Prototype Slice 1 freeze (E7M1-01)
+
+The **first shipped quest spine** is **frozen** for prototype tuning until a deliberate migration issue expands the roster.
+
+| `QuestDef.id` | `displayName` | `prerequisiteQuestIds` | Steps (summary) |
+|---------------|---------------|------------------------|-----------------|
+| **`prototype_quest_gather_intro`** | Intro: Salvage Run | *(none)* | 1× **`gather_item`**: **`scrap_metal_bulk` ×3** |
+| **`prototype_quest_refine_intro`** | Intro: Refine Stock | **`prototype_quest_gather_intro`** | 1× **`craft_recipe`**: **`refine_scrap_standard`** ×1 |
+| **`prototype_quest_combat_intro`** | Intro: Clear the Pocket | *(none)* | 1× **`encounter_complete`**: **`prototype_combat_pocket`** |
+| **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`** | Operator Chain | **`prototype_quest_gather_intro`**, **`prototype_quest_refine_intro`**, **`prototype_quest_combat_intro`** | 4 steps: gather **`scrap_metal_bulk` ×5** → craft **`refine_scrap_standard`** → craft **`make_field_stim_mk0`** → **`inventory_has_item`** **`contract_handoff_token` ×1** |
+
+**CI enforcement (NEO-112):** `scripts/validate_content.py` requires **exactly** these four quest ids; objective cross-refs to frozen item/recipe/encounter catalogs; acyclic **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**; chain quest terminal step uses **`contract_handoff_token`** from [E5.M3 encounter loot](E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md#prototype-slice-3-freeze-e5m3-01).
+
+**Reward policy (Slice 1):** Quest completion updates **`QuestStepState` only** — no duplicate item/XP grants. Gather/craft/encounter paths keep existing payouts; [E7.M2](E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md) adds **`QuestRewardBundle`** apply in Slice 2.
+
 ## Risks and telemetry
 
 - Scripting weight: keep `QuestDef` data-first; templates in decomposition/tooling path per epic.
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
index d2eb2e4..fbd0a06 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
@@ -59,6 +59,7 @@ Rows appear when work starts; default for unlisted modules is **Planned** / not
 | E5.M1 | Ready | **NEO-76 landed:** frozen prototype four-ability catalog in [`content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json`](../../../content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json); [`ability-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/ability-def.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py) E5M1 four-id gate ([NEO-76](../../plans/NEO-76-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-77 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/abilities/*_abilities.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/` ([NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability catalog](../../../server/README.md#ability-catalog-contentabilities-neo-77). **NEO-79 landed:** injectable **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; hotbar/cast use **`TryNormalizeKnown`** ([NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/hotbar-loadout/` + `ability-cast/` unknown-ability deny smokes. **NEO-78 landed:** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Combat/` ([NEO-78](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability definitions (NEO-78)](../../../server/README.md#ability-definitions-neo-78); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`. **NEO-80 landed:** **`ICombatEntityHealthStore`** / **`InMemoryCombatEntityHealthStore`** — lazy init (Slice 1 flat 100 HP; **superseded by [NEO-91](../../plans/NEO-91-implementation-plan.md)** per-archetype catalog max HP + three NPC instance ids); DI via **`AddCombatEntityHealthStore()`** ([NEO-80](../../plans/NEO-80-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Combat entity health (NEO-80, NEO-91)](../../../server/README.md#combat-entity-health-neo-80-neo-91). **NEO-81 landed:** **`CombatOperations.TryResolve`** + **`CombatResult`** + **`CombatReasonCodes`** — defeated pre-check deny, catalog damage ([NEO-81](../../plans/NEO-81-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Combat engine (NEO-81)](../../../server/README.md#combat-engine-neo-81). **NEO-82 landed:** **`AbilityCastApi`** → **`CombatOperations.TryResolve`**; nested wire **`combatResolution`** on accept; per-ability catalog cooldown; **`target_defeated`** cast deny ([NEO-82](../../plans/NEO-82-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability cast (NEO-82)](../../../server/README.md#ability-cast-neo-31-neo-82); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-cast/` defeat spine. **NEO-83 landed:** **`GET /game/world/combat-targets`** — `CombatTargetsWorldApi` + DTOs; authoritative HP snapshot from **`ICombatEntityHealthStore`** ([NEO-83](../../plans/NEO-83-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Combat targets snapshot (NEO-83)](../../../server/README.md#combat-targets-snapshot-neo-83); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/combat-targets/`. **NEO-44 landed:** **`CombatDefeatGigXpGrant`** on cast **`targetDefeated`** — **25** gig XP to **`breach`** via **`IPlayerGigProgressionStore`** (V007); **`GET …/gig-progression`** ([NEO-44](../../plans/NEO-44-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-44` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-44.md)); [server README — Gig progression (NEO-44)](../../../server/README.md#gig-progression-snapshot-neo-44); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/gig-progression/`. **NEO-84 landed:** comment-only **`ability_used`** / **`enemy_defeat`** telemetry hook sites in **`CombatOperations.TryResolve`**; reserved **`encounter_start`** / **`player_death`** ([NEO-84](../../plans/NEO-84-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Combat telemetry hooks (NEO-84)](../../../server/README.md#combat-telemetry-hooks-neo-84). **NEO-85 landed:** client combat HUD — **`ability_cast_client.gd`** parses **`combatResolution`**; **`combat_targets_client.gd`**, **`CastFeedbackLabel`** resolution copy, **`CombatTargetHpLabel`**; event-driven GET refresh ([NEO-85](../../plans/NEO-85-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-85` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-85.md)); `client/README.md` combat HUD section. **NEO-86 landed:** playable combat capstone — **`gig_progression_client.gd`**, **`GigXpLabel`**, defeat-triggered gig GET refresh; capstone manual QA [`NEO-86`](../../manual-qa/NEO-86.md); `client/README.md` end-to-end combat loop section ([NEO-86](../../plans/NEO-86-implementation-plan.md)). **Epic 5 Slice 1 client capstone complete.** **Backlog decomposed:** Epic 5 Slice 1 — **E5M1-01**–**E5M1-12** landed. **Precursor landed:** E1.M4 cast funnel (NEO-28/31/32). | [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M1](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md), [NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-78](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-80](../../plans/NEO-80-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-81](../../plans/NEO-81-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-82](../../plans/NEO-82-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-83](../../plans/NEO-83-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-44](../../plans/NEO-44-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-84](../../plans/NEO-84-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-85](../../plans/NEO-85-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-86](../../plans/NEO-86-implementation-plan.md), [E1M4-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E1M4-prototype-backlog.md) |
 | E5.M2 | Ready | **NEO-87 landed:** frozen prototype three-behavior catalog in [`content/npc-behaviors/prototype_npc_behaviors.json`](../../../content/npc-behaviors/prototype_npc_behaviors.json); [`npc-behavior-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/npc-behavior-def.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py) E5M2 three-id gate ([NEO-87](../../plans/NEO-87-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-88 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/npc-behaviors/*_npc_behaviors.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Npc/` ([NEO-88](../../plans/NEO-88-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — NPC behavior catalog](../../../server/README.md#npc-behavior-catalog-contentnpc-behaviors-neo-88). **NEO-89 landed:** injectable **`INpcBehaviorDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; **`PrototypeNpcBehaviorRegistry`** id constants ([NEO-89](../../plans/NEO-89-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-90 landed:** **`GET /game/world/npc-behavior-definitions`** — `NpcBehaviorDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Npc/` ([NEO-90](../../plans/NEO-90-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — NPC behavior definitions (NEO-90)](../../../server/README.md#npc-behavior-definitions-neo-90); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/npc-behavior-definitions/`. **NEO-91 landed:** **`PrototypeNpcRegistry`** + combat-target migration — three NPC instance ids replace alpha/beta; per-archetype max HP from behavior catalog ([NEO-91](../../plans/NEO-91-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Combat entity health (NEO-91)](../../../server/README.md#combat-entity-health-neo-80-neo-91). **NEO-92 landed:** **`IThreatStateStore`** + **`AggroOperations`** — first-hit acquire on damaging cast, leash clear on move/cast; cast/move/fixture hooks ([NEO-92](../../plans/NEO-92-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Threat / aggro state (NEO-92)](../../../server/README.md#threat--aggro-state-neo-92). **NEO-93 landed:** **`INpcRuntimeStateStore`** + **`NpcRuntimeOperations.AdvanceAll`** — catalog-driven behavior state machine, lazy tick advance with delta cap; dev fixture reset ([NEO-93](../../plans/NEO-93-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — NPC runtime behavior state (NEO-93)](../../../server/README.md#npc-runtime-behavior-state-neo-93). **NEO-94 landed:** **`GET /game/world/npc-runtime-snapshot`** — `NpcRuntimeSnapshotWorldApi` + DTOs; lazy **`AdvanceAll`** on poll; nested **`activeTelegraph`** with server-computed **`windupRemainingSeconds`** ([NEO-94](../../plans/NEO-94-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — NPC runtime snapshot (NEO-94)](../../../server/README.md#npc-runtime-snapshot-neo-94); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/npc-runtime-snapshot/`. **NEO-95 landed:** **`IPlayerCombatHealthStore`** + **`NpcAttackOperations.TryResolveTelegraphComplete`** — telegraph resolve via behavior **`attackAbilityId`** + ability **`maxRange`** / **`baseDamage`** ([NEO-95](../../plans/NEO-95-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-98](../../plans/NEO-98-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Session player combat HP (NEO-95)](../../../server/README.md#session-player-combat-hp-neo-95); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/combat-health/`. **NEO-96 landed:** comment-only **`telegraph_fired`** + **`npc_state_transition`** hook sites in **`NpcRuntimeOperations.AdvanceAll`** ([NEO-96](../../plans/NEO-96-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — NPC runtime telemetry hooks (NEO-96)](../../../server/README.md#npc-runtime-telemetry-hooks-neo-96). **NEO-97 landed:** client telegraph HUD — **`npc_runtime_client.gd`**, **`player_combat_health_client.gd`**, **`npc_runtime_hud_state.gd`**, **`TelegraphLabel`** / **`NpcStateLabel`** / **`PlayerCombatHpLabel`**; combat-active ~1 Hz poll ([NEO-97](../../plans/NEO-97-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-97` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-97.md)); [client README — NPC runtime + telegraph HUD (NEO-97)](../../../client/README.md#npc-runtime--telegraph-hud-neo-97). **NEO-98 landed:** playable NPC telegraph combat capstone — [`NEO-98` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-98.md); `client/README.md` end-to-end NPC telegraph combat loop section ([NEO-98](../../plans/NEO-98-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-98 server integration:** defeat clears aggro/runtime (**`TryStopOnTargetDefeat`**); telegraph damage range-gated via [`prototype_npc_abilities.json`](../../../content/abilities/prototype_npc_abilities.json) + behavior **`attackAbilityId`**. **Epic 5 Slice 2 client capstone complete.** **Backlog decomposed:** Epic 5 Slice 2 — [E5M2-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M2-prototype-backlog.md) **E5M2-01** [NEO-87](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-87) → **E5M2-12** [NEO-98](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-98) **landed**. Three archetypes (`prototype_melee_pressure`, `prototype_ranged_control`, `prototype_elite_mini_boss`); replaces alpha/beta dummies with **`prototype_npc_melee` / `ranged` / `elite`**. Owns **`ThreatState`**, **`TelegraphEvent`**, **`GET …/npc-runtime-snapshot`**, session **`IPlayerCombatHealthStore`**. Upstream **E5.M1 Ready**. | [E5M2-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M2-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M2](E5_M2_NpcAiAndBehaviorProfiles.md), [NEO-87](../../plans/NEO-87-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-88](../../plans/NEO-88-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-89](../../plans/NEO-89-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-90](../../plans/NEO-90-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-91](../../plans/NEO-91-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-92](../../plans/NEO-92-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-93](../../plans/NEO-93-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-94](../../plans/NEO-94-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-95](../../plans/NEO-95-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-96](../../plans/NEO-96-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-97](../../plans/NEO-97-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-98](../../plans/NEO-98-implementation-plan.md), label **`E5.M2`** on NEO-87–NEO-98 |
 | 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.M1 | Planned | **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). **Backlog decomposed (not started beyond catalog):** Epic 7 Slice 1 — [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md) **E7M1-01** [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) → **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123). Four frozen quests (3 onboarding + 1 gather→craft→combat chain); solo only; state-only completion in Slice 1 (rewards deferred to E7.M2). Client capstone **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123). Upstream: E3.M1 gather **Ready**, E3.M2 craft **Ready**, E5.M3 encounter **`contract_handoff_token`** + **`EncounterCompleteEvent`** **Ready**. Register row stays **Planned** until **NEO-113** server load lands. | [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 |
 
 ---
 
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
index 914425d..45546db 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
@@ -108,6 +108,8 @@ Gameplay **content and curves** default to **boot load** with optional **dev-onl
 | Module ID | Module Name | Depends On | Contract Needed | Phase Required | Status |
 |---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | E7.M1 | QuestStateMachine | E3.M2, E5.M1 | QuestDef, QuestStepState, QuestStateTransition | Prototype | Planned |
+
+**E7.M1 note:** Epic 7 **Slice 1** 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-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) → [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123); label **`E7.M1`**. See [E7M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md](E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md). Upstream: E3.M1 gather **Ready**, E3.M2 craft **Ready**, E5.M3 encounter **Ready**. Client capstone **E7M1-12** [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123). **E7M1-01 / NEO-112** catalog landed (schemas + CI); register row stays **Planned** until **NEO-113** server load lands.
 | E7.M2 | RewardAndUnlockRouter | E2.M2, E3.M3, E7.M1 | QuestRewardBundle, UnlockGrant, RewardDeliveryEvent | Prototype | Planned |
 | E7.M3 | FactionReputationLedger | E7.M1 | FactionStanding, ReputationDelta, FactionGateRule | Pre-production | Planned |
 | E7.M4 | ContractMissionGenerator | E4.M1, E5.M3, E7.M3 | ContractTemplate, ContractSeed, ContractOutcome | Pre-production | Planned |
diff --git a/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md b/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ec395c0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md
@@ -0,0 +1,392 @@
+# E7.M1 — Prototype story backlog (QuestStateMachine)
+
+Working backlog for **Epic 7 — Slice 1** ([quest core and persistence](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md#slice-1---quest-core-and-persistence)). Decomposition and contracts: [E7.M1 — QuestStateMachine](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.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: [E5M3 (paired server+client)](../plans/E5M3-prototype-backlog.md).
+
+**Labels (Linear):** every issue **`E7.M1`**; add **`server`** or **`client`** + **`Story`** as listed.
+
+**Precursor (do not re-scope):** [E5.M3](../decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md) encounter complete grants **`contract_handoff_token`** + records **`EncounterCompleteEvent`** ([NEO-107](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-107)) — prototype quest credit stand-in until [E7.M2](../decomposition/modules/E7_M2_RewardAndUnlockRouter.md) **`QuestRewardBundle`** router lands. **NEO-43** [`MissionRewardSkillXpGrant`](../../server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Skills/MissionRewardSkillXpGrant.cs) is the future skill-XP apply helper for E7.M2; E7.M1 tracks quest state only (no duplicate item grants on quest complete in Slice 1).
+
+**Upstream (must be landed):** [E3.M1](../decomposition/modules/E3_M1_ResourceNodeAndGatherLoop.md) gather on interact ([NEO-63](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-63)); [E3.M2](../decomposition/modules/E3_M2_RefinementAndRecipeExecution.md) craft POST ([NEO-70](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-70)); [E5.M3](../decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md) encounter wiring + progress GET ([NEO-106](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-106), [NEO-108](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-108)). [E3S5](../plans/E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md) client economy HUD ([NEO-72](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-72)–[NEO-75](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-75)).
+
+**Prototype quest spine (frozen in E7M1-01):** **three** solo onboarding quests + **one** multi-step chain quest (vision minimum 3–5 onboarding + one integrated chain). **Solo only** — no party credit ([quest_scope_and_party.md](../decomposition/modules/quest_scope_and_party.md)).
+
+**Linear issues (created):** attach `docs/plans/NEO-*-implementation-plan.md` on the story branch when work starts.
+
+| Slug | Layer | Linear |
+|------|-------|--------|
+| E7M1-01 | server | [NEO-112](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112) |
+| E7M1-02 | server | [NEO-113](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-113) |
+| E7M1-03 | server | [NEO-114](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-114) |
+| E7M1-04 | server | [NEO-115](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-115) |
+| E7M1-05 | server | [NEO-116](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-116) |
+| E7M1-06 | server | [NEO-117](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-117) |
+| E7M1-07 | server | [NEO-118](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-118) |
+| E7M1-08 | server | [NEO-119](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-119) |
+| E7M1-09 | server | [NEO-120](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-120) |
+| E7M1-10 | server | [NEO-121](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-121) |
+| E7M1-11 | client | [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) |
+| E7M1-12 | client | [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123) |
+
+**Dependency graph in Linear:** E7M1-02 blocked by E7M1-01. E7M1-03 blocked by E7M1-02. E7M1-04 blocked by E7M1-03. E7M1-05 blocked by E7M1-03. E7M1-06 blocked by E7M1-05. E7M1-07 blocked by E7M1-06. E7M1-08 blocked by E7M1-07. E7M1-09 blocked by E7M1-06 (may parallel E7M1-08). E7M1-10 blocked by E7M1-07. E7M1-11 blocked by E7M1-08 and E7M1-09. E7M1-12 blocked by E7M1-11.
+
+**Board order:** estimates **1–12** matching slug order (E7M1-01 = 1 … E7M1-12 = 12). On the Epic 7 project board, sort by **Estimate** (ascending).
+
+---
+
+## Story order (recommended)
+
+| Order | Slug | Layer | Depends on |
+|-------|------|-------|------------|
+| 1 | **E7M1-01** | server | E3.M1/E3.M2/E5.M3 content ids frozen |
+| 2 | **E7M1-02** | server | E7M1-01 |
+| 3 | **E7M1-03** | server | E7M1-02 |
+| 4 | **E7M1-04** | server | E7M1-03 |
+| 5 | **E7M1-05** | server | E7M1-03 |
+| 6 | **E7M1-06** | server | E7M1-05 |
+| 7 | **E7M1-07** | server | E7M1-06 |
+| 8 | **E7M1-08** | server | E7M1-07 |
+| 9 | **E7M1-09** | server | E7M1-06 |
+| 10 | **E7M1-10** | server | E7M1-07 |
+| 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) idempotent **`QuestRewardBundle`** apply + consume **`EncounterCompleteEvent`**; [E7.M3](../decomposition/modules/E7_M3_FactionReputationLedger.md) faction ledger (pre-production); [E8.M1](../decomposition/modules/E8_M1_PartyAndMatchAssembly.md) party-credit quests.
+
+---
+
+## Kickoff decisions (decomposition defaults)
+
+| Topic | Decision | Rationale |
+|-------|----------|-----------|
+| Quest count | **3** onboarding + **1** multi-step chain (4 total) | Vision prototype minimum; readable manual QA |
+| Party mode | **Solo only** | [quest_scope_and_party.md](../decomposition/modules/quest_scope_and_party.md); E8.M1 not landed |
+| Accept flow | **`POST …/quests/{questId}/accept`** | Explicit start; boot does not auto-grant all quests |
+| Objective advance | **Server hooks** on gather/craft/encounter success | Client displays GET snapshot only ([client_server_authority.md](../decomposition/modules/client_server_authority.md)) |
+| Objective kinds (v1) | **`gather_item`**, **`craft_recipe`**, **`encounter_complete`**, **`inventory_has_item`** | Covers gather→craft→combat chain without custom scripting VM |
+| Chain quest | **4 sequential steps** in one `QuestDef` | Single HUD row with step index; epic “integrated chain” |
+| Prerequisites | **`prerequisiteQuestIds`** enforced on accept | Gather and combat intros parallel (no prereq); refine requires gather intro; chain requires all three intros |
+| Rewards (Slice 1) | **State-only completion**; no duplicate item/XP grants | Loot stays on gather/craft/encounter paths; E7.M2 owns bundles |
+| Token handoff | Chain final step **`inventory_has_item`** **`contract_handoff_token`** | Uses E5.M3 encounter loot; no consume mutation in Slice 1 |
+| Idempotency | **Once per player per quest id** complete | Slice 1 AC: no duped quest completion |
+| Store | **In-memory** **`IPlayerQuestStateStore`** (+ optional Postgres migration) | Matches encounter prototype stores |
+| HTTP read | **`GET /game/players/{id}/quest-progress`** | Client HUD without local objective math |
+| HUD fidelity | Prototype Labels / debug panels (not final art) | NEO-110 / NEO-122 precedent |
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-01 — Prototype QuestDef catalog + schemas + CI
+
+**Goal:** Lock content shape and CI validation for **four** frozen quests before server load.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- `content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json`, `content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json`, `content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json`.
+- `content/quests/prototype_quests.json` — stable quest ids and step/objective graph (see module doc freeze table).
+- `scripts/validate_content.py`: schema validation, duplicate ids, exact four-quest allowlist, cross-ref **`itemId`** / **`recipeId`** / **`encounterId`** to frozen catalogs, **`prerequisiteQuestIds`** acyclic + known ids, objective kind enum.
+- Designer note in [E7_M1](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md) + `content/README.md`.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Server loader, runtime engine, HTTP, Godot.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [x] PR gate validates quest JSON against schema.
+- [x] Exactly four prototype quest ids; duplicate `id` fails CI.
+- [x] Every objective reference resolves to a frozen catalog id.
+- [x] Stable id list documented in module doc freeze box.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-02 — Server quest catalog load (fail-fast)
+
+**Goal:** Disk → host: startup load of `content/quests/*.json` with CI-parity validation.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Loader + catalog types under `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Quests/` (path finalized in plan).
+- Fail-fast on malformed files, duplicate ids, allowlist mismatch with CI, broken cross-refs (items, recipes, encounters).
+- Unit tests (AAA) for loader happy path and failure modes.
+- `server/README.md` section.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Injectable registry interface (E7M1-03), HTTP projection, runtime state machine.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Host fails startup on invalid quest JSON (mirror CI rules).
+- [ ] Loader tests cover allowlist + cross-ref failures.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-03 — Injectable quest definition registry + DI
+
+**Goal:** **`IQuestDefinitionRegistry`** with **`TryGet`**, startup registration from E7M1-02 catalog.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Interface + in-memory implementation; **`AddQuestDefinitionRegistry`** DI extension.
+- Unit tests: lookup known ids, unknown id returns false.
+- Wire in host startup alongside other content registries.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- HTTP, player quest state.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Registry resolves all four frozen quest ids at runtime.
+- [ ] Unknown quest id fails closed for downstream operations.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-04 — GET /game/world/quest-definitions
+
+**Goal:** Versioned read-only projection of frozen quest defs for client display names and step summaries.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- `QuestDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Quests/`.
+- Nested steps/objectives summary (ids, kinds, display copy — no server secrets).
+- Bruno folder `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-definitions/`.
+- Integration tests (AAA).
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Per-player progress (E7M1-08).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] GET returns all four prototype quests with stable JSON v1 envelope.
+- [ ] Bruno request documents example response shape.
+
+**Client counterpart:** consumed by [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) for display names (optional cache).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-05 — Player quest state store + QuestStepState persistence
+
+**Goal:** Durable per-player quest rows: status (`not_started` / `active` / `completed`), current step index, per-step objective counters.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`IPlayerQuestStateStore`** + in-memory implementation (registered in quest DI extension).
+- Optional Postgres migration **`V00X`** when DB configured (mirror encounter/inventory pattern).
+- **`QuestStepState`** / **`PlayerQuestProgressRow`** types aligned with module contracts.
+- Unit tests: accept transitions, idempotent complete mark.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Objective evaluation (E7M1-06), HTTP.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Store supports read/update per `(playerId, questId)`.
+- [ ] Completed quest cannot regress to active without explicit reset API (none in prototype).
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-06 — QuestStateOperations (accept, step advance, complete)
+
+**Goal:** Server-authoritative quest lifecycle without objective wiring yet.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`QuestStateOperations.TryAccept`**, **`TryAdvanceStep`**, **`TryMarkComplete`** with structured **`reasonCode`** denials (`unknown_quest`, `prerequisite_incomplete`, `already_completed`, `already_active`).
+- Prerequisite enforcement from **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**.
+- Idempotent complete: second complete returns success without state change.
+- Unit tests (AAA) for accept order, prerequisite gate, idempotent complete.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Gather/craft/encounter hooks (E7M1-07); HTTP (E7M1-08/09).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Accept fails when prerequisite quest not **completed**.
+- [ ] Complete is idempotent per player+quest.
+- [ ] Reason codes documented in `server/README.md`.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-120](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-120) exposes accept POST to Godot.
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-07 — Quest objective wiring (gather, craft, encounter)
+
+**Goal:** Advance active quest steps when server-side gather, craft, and encounter events succeed.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`QuestObjectiveWiring`** (or equivalent) invoked from:
+  - **`GatherOperations.TryGather`** success path — **`gather_item`** objectives.
+  - **`CraftOperations.TryCraft`** success path — **`craft_recipe`** objectives.
+  - **`EncounterCompletionOperations.TryCompleteAndGrant`** success path — **`encounter_complete`** objectives.
+  - Inventory snapshot read for **`inventory_has_item`** (post-grant or on polling hook from accept).
+- Counter accumulation for quantity objectives (e.g. gather 3 scrap).
+- Auto **`TryAdvanceStep`** / **`TryMarkComplete`** when step objectives satisfied.
+- Integration tests: accept quest → simulate gather/craft/encounter → progress row advances.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Client-side objective tracking; item consume on turn-in; E7.M2 reward bundles.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Active **`prototype_quest_gather_intro`** advances when **`scrap_metal_bulk`** gather succeeds.
+- [ ] Active **`prototype_quest_refine_intro`** advances on **`refine_scrap_standard`** craft success.
+- [ ] Active **`prototype_quest_combat_intro`** advances when **`prototype_combat_pocket`** completes.
+- [ ] Chain quest steps advance in order across mixed objective kinds.
+
+**Client counterpart:** progress visible via [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) GET HUD after mutations.
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-08 — GET /game/players/{id}/quest-progress
+
+**Goal:** Per-player quest progress snapshot for client HUD.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`QuestProgressApi`** + DTOs: all known quests with status, current step index, objective progress counters, completion timestamp when applicable.
+- Known-player gate (mirror encounter-progress / skill-progression patterns).
+- Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/quest-progress/`.
+- Integration tests (AAA): accept → partial progress → complete rows.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Quest definition catalog (E7M1-04).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] GET returns stable v1 envelope for **`dev-local-1`** player.
+- [ ] Completed quests show **`completed`** with step count at terminal step.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) — **`quest_progress_client.gd`** + HUD labels.
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-09 — POST /game/players/{id}/quests/{questId}/accept
+
+**Goal:** Player-initiated quest accept from Godot (prototype “quest giver” is HUD button or key binding).
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`QuestAcceptApi`**: POST accept; JSON body optional v1 `{}`; response includes updated progress row or deny payload.
+- Wire **`QuestStateOperations.TryAccept`**.
+- Bruno + integration tests: happy accept, prerequisite deny, duplicate accept.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Abandon/reset POST (defer unless capstone QA requires).
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Successful accept transitions row **`not_started` → `active`**.
+- [ ] Deny returns structured **`reasonCode`** without mutation.
+
+**Client counterpart:** [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) — accept binding + feedback label.
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-10 — Quest telemetry hook sites (comment-only)
+
+**Goal:** Document and place comment-only hook sites for future E9.M1 catalog events **`quest_start`**, **`quest_step_complete`**, **`quest_complete`**.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- Hook sites in **`QuestStateOperations`** / **`QuestObjectiveWiring`** at accept, step advance, and complete.
+- Reserved deny hook **`quest_accept_denied`** (optional comment).
+- `server/README.md` subsection; module doc note.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- E9.M1 ingest pipeline; runtime telemetry emit.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Hook sites exist at accept, step complete, quest complete paths.
+- [ ] Epic 7 Slice 1 telemetry vocabulary documented.
+
+**Client counterpart:** none (infrastructure-only).
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-11 — Client quest progress + accept HUD (Godot)
+
+**Goal:** Godot **`GET …/quest-progress`** client + readable quest panel; accept via **`POST …/accept`**.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- `quest_progress_client.gd`, optional `quest_definitions_client.gd` for display names.
+- HUD: **`QuestProgressLabel`** (active/completed summary), **`QuestAcceptFeedbackLabel`** (deny/success copy).
+- Boot hydrate + refresh after gather/craft/cast/encounter events (mirror **`encounter_progress_client.gd`** pattern).
+- Prototype accept bindings: e.g. keys **Q** / **Shift+Q** for next eligible quest accept (document in manual QA).
+- GdUnit: HTTP double, parse happy path + deny path.
+- `client/README.md` section.
+- `docs/manual-qa/NEO-122.md`.
+
+**Out of scope**
+
+- Quest journal art, map pins, NPC dialog; final quest picker UI.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Player sees quest status change after accept without Bruno.
+- [ ] Objective progress updates after gather/craft/encounter in Godot session.
+- [ ] Failed GET/accept surfaces visible HUD error (match interaction client pattern).
+
+**Client counterpart:** this story **is** the client counterpart for E7M1-08/09.
+
+---
+
+### E7M1-12 — Playable onboarding quest chain capstone (Godot)
+
+**Goal:** Prove Epic 7 Slice 1 acceptance **in Godot**: complete all four prototype quests (gather → refine → combat → operator chain) without Bruno; satisfies vision **quest loop** gate.
+
+**In scope**
+
+- **`docs/manual-qa/NEO-123.md`**: numbered single-session capstone — fresh server restart, accept onboarding quests in order, perform gather/craft/combat actions, verify chain quest **`prototype_quest_operator_chain`** completes when **`contract_handoff_token`** held.
+- **`client/README.md`**: **End-to-end onboarding quest loop** section — flow table; cross-links NEO-112–NEO-122.
+- Module alignment on completion: [E7_M1](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.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**
+
+- E7.M2 reward bundles; faction reputation; quest VFX; Bruno-only verification as prototype-complete proof.
+
+**Acceptance criteria**
+
+- [ ] Human completes **`docs/manual-qa/NEO-123.md`** with server + client.
+- [ ] Epic 7 Slice 1 AC: 3 onboarding + 1 chain complete without duplicate completion on replay.
+- [ ] Re-read [epic_07 Definition of Done](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md#definition-of-done) for prototype minimums.
+
+**Client counterpart:** this story **is** the Slice 1 client capstone.
+
+---
+
+## Decomposition complete checklist
+
+- [x] Every player-visible AC has a **`client`** Linear issue (NEO-122, NEO-123)
+- [x] No forbidden deferral language in backlog
+- [x] Capstone client story exists (E7M1-12 / NEO-123)
+- [x] Epic DoD updated for Godot verification
+- [x] [documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md](../decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md) E7.M1 row updated
+- [x] [module_dependency_register.md](../decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md) E7.M1 note updated
+
+## Related docs
+
+- [epic_07_quest_faction.md](../decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md)
+- [quest_scope_and_party.md](../decomposition/modules/quest_scope_and_party.md)
+- [E5M3-prototype-backlog.md](E5M3-prototype-backlog.md) (encounter token precursor)
+- [E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md](E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md) (gather/craft client HUD)
+- [neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md — Prototype Scope](../../neon_sprawl_vision.plan.md)
diff --git a/docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md b/docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2aa97c4
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md
@@ -0,0 +1,148 @@
+# NEO-112 — Implementation plan
+
+## Story reference
+
+| Field | Value |
+|--------|--------|
+| **Key** | NEO-112 |
+| **Title** | E7M1-01: Prototype QuestDef catalog + schemas + CI |
+| **Linear** | https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-112/e7m1-01-prototype-questdef-catalog-schemas-ci |
+| **Module** | [E7.M1 — QuestStateMachine](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md) · Epic 7 Slice 1 · backlog **E7M1-01** |
+| **Branch** | `NEO-112-e7m1-prototype-questdef-catalog-schemas-ci` |
+| **Precursor** | [E3.M1](../decomposition/modules/E3_M1_ResourceNodeAndGatherLoop.md) gather **Ready** · [E3.M2](../decomposition/modules/E3_M2_RefinementAndRecipeExecution.md) craft **Ready** · [E5.M3](../decomposition/modules/E5_M3_EncounterAndRewardTables.md) encounter **Ready** (frozen item/recipe/encounter ids) |
+| **Pattern** | [NEO-100](NEO-100-implementation-plan.md) — row JSON Schema + catalog envelope + `scripts/validate_content.py` gate |
+| **Blocks** | [NEO-113](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-113) — server quest catalog load (fail-fast) |
+
+## Kickoff clarifications
+
+**No clarifications needed.** Scope, frozen quest ids, step/objective graph, prerequisite rules, objective kinds, and cross-ref targets are fully specified in [E7M1 kickoff decisions](E7M1-prototype-backlog.md#kickoff-decisions-decomposition-defaults), [E7.M1 freeze table](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md#prototype-slice-1-freeze-e7m1-01), and [E7M1-01 backlog entry](E7M1-prototype-backlog.md#e7m1-01--prototype-questdef-catalog--schemas--ci). Catalog envelope and CI constant naming follow NEO-100 / NEO-87 precedent without ambiguity.
+
+| Topic | Question | Agent recommendation | Answer |
+|--------|----------|----------------------|--------|
+| — | — | — | **No blocking decisions** (see above). |
+
+## Goal, scope, and out-of-scope
+
+**Goal:** Lock content shape and CI validation for **four** frozen `QuestDef` rows before server load (NEO-113+).
+
+**In scope (from Linear + [E7M1-01](E7M1-prototype-backlog.md#e7m1-01--prototype-questdef-catalog--schemas--ci)):**
+
+- `content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json`, `content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json`, `content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json`.
+- `content/quests/prototype_quests.json` — four rows matching the module doc freeze table.
+- `scripts/validate_content.py` — schema validation, duplicate ids, four-quest allowlist, cross-ref **`itemId`** / **`recipeId`** / **`encounterId`** to frozen catalogs, acyclic **`prerequisiteQuestIds`**, objective **`kind`** enum, chain terminal step **`inventory_has_item`** **`contract_handoff_token`** ×1 gate.
+- Designer note / CI rules in [E7_M1](../decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md) (CI enforcement line already present) + **CT.M1** PR gate paragraph + `content/README.md` quest row.
+- `documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` E7.M1 row → note NEO-112 catalog when complete.
+
+**Out of scope (from Linear):**
+
+- Server loader, runtime engine, HTTP, Godot (NEO-113+).
+- **`IQuestDefinitionRegistry`**, player quest state, objective hooks (E7M1-03+).
+- **Client counterpart:** none — server-only content + CI; player-visible work starts at [NEO-122](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-122) / [NEO-123](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-123).
+
+## Acceptance criteria checklist
+
+- [x] PR gate validates quest JSON against schema.
+- [x] Exactly four prototype quest ids; duplicate `id` fails CI.
+- [x] Every objective reference resolves to a frozen catalog id.
+- [x] Stable id list documented in module doc freeze box (already present; verify after ship).
+
+## Implementation reconciliation (shipped)
+
+- **Schemas:** [`quest-objective-def.schema.json`](../../content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json), [`quest-step-def.schema.json`](../../content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json), [`quest-def.schema.json`](../../content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json).
+- **Catalog:** [`prototype_quests.json`](../../content/quests/prototype_quests.json) — four frozen quest rows per E7.M1 freeze table.
+- **CI:** `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS`, prerequisite acyclic gate, objective cross-ref gates, chain terminal token gate in [`validate_content.py`](../../scripts/validate_content.py); duplicate quest/step/objective id rejection.
+- **Docs:** CT.M1 quest paragraph, `content/README.md` quests row + E7M1 paragraph, alignment register E7.M1 row, E7M1-01 backlog checkboxes.
+
+## Technical approach
+
+1. **`quest-objective-def.schema.json`:** Draft 2020-12 object; `additionalProperties: false`. Required: **`id`**, **`kind`**. **`kind`** enum: **`gather_item`**, **`craft_recipe`**, **`encounter_complete`**, **`inventory_has_item`**. Use **`oneOf`** branches keyed by **`kind`**:
+   - **`gather_item`**: required **`itemId`**, **`quantity`** (integer ≥ 1).
+   - **`craft_recipe`**: required **`recipeId`**, **`quantity`** (integer ≥ 1).
+   - **`encounter_complete`**: required **`encounterId`** (no quantity).
+   - **`inventory_has_item`**: required **`itemId`**, **`quantity`** (integer ≥ 1).
+   - Id patterns: `^[a-z][a-z0-9_]*$` (same as other catalogs).
+
+2. **`quest-step-def.schema.json`:** Required: **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`objectives`** (non-empty array of `$ref` quest-objective-def). Reject duplicate objective **`id`** within a step in CI (post-schema).
+
+3. **`quest-def.schema.json`:** Required: **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`prerequisiteQuestIds`** (array of strings; may be empty), **`steps`** (non-empty array of `$ref` quest-step-def). Reject duplicate step **`id`** within a quest in CI (post-schema).
+
+4. **Catalog file `content/quests/prototype_quests.json`:**
+
+   Envelope: **`schemaVersion`: 1**, top-level **`quests`** array. Four rows per freeze table:
+
+   | `id` | `displayName` | `prerequisiteQuestIds` | Steps |
+   |------|---------------|------------------------|-------|
+   | `prototype_quest_gather_intro` | Intro: Salvage Run | `[]` | 1× **`gather_item`** `scrap_metal_bulk` ×3 |
+   | `prototype_quest_refine_intro` | Intro: Refine Stock | `[prototype_quest_gather_intro]` | 1× **`craft_recipe`** `refine_scrap_standard` ×1 |
+   | `prototype_quest_combat_intro` | Intro: Clear the Pocket | `[]` | 1× **`encounter_complete`** `prototype_combat_pocket` |
+   | `prototype_quest_operator_chain` | Operator Chain | all three intros | 4 steps: gather ×5 → refine → make_field_stim_mk0 → **`inventory_has_item`** token ×1 |
+
+   Step/objective **`id`** values are stable content keys (e.g. `gather_intro_step_salvage`, `chain_obj_token`); chosen for readability and future HTTP projection (E7M1-04).
+
+5. **`validate_content.py` constants (keep in sync with E7.M1 module doc + future NEO-113 loader):**
+
+   | Constant | Value |
+   |----------|--------|
+   | `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS` | `{ prototype_quest_gather_intro, prototype_quest_refine_intro, prototype_quest_combat_intro, prototype_quest_operator_chain }` |
+   | `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID` | `prototype_quest_operator_chain` |
+   | `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_TERMINAL_ITEM_ID` | `contract_handoff_token` |
+
+6. **`validate_content.py` validators:**
+
+   - Add schema paths + dir: `QUEST_DEF_SCHEMA`, `QUEST_STEP_DEF_SCHEMA`, `QUEST_OBJECTIVE_DEF_SCHEMA`, `QUESTS_DIR`.
+   - Register `$ref` between quest / step / objective schemas in the Draft 2020-12 registry (same pattern as recipe + recipe-io-row).
+   - **`_validate_quest_catalogs`:** envelope `schemaVersion: 1`, top-level **`quests`** array; validate each row; track `seen_ids`; reject duplicate quest **`id`** across files; build `id_to_row` map.
+   - **`_prototype_e7m1_quest_gate`:** ids must equal `PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS`.
+   - **`_prototype_e7m1_quest_prerequisite_gate`:** every **`prerequisiteQuestIds`** entry must exist in `seen_ids`; graph must be **acyclic** (DFS / Kahn).
+   - **`_prototype_e7m1_quest_cross_ref_gate`:** per objective — **`itemId`** ∈ `PROTOTYPE_SLICE1_ITEM_IDS`; **`recipeId`** ∈ `PROTOTYPE_SLICE3_RECIPE_IDS`; **`encounterId`** ∈ `PROTOTYPE_E5M3_ENCOUNTER_IDS` (only when present for kind).
+   - **`_prototype_e7m1_chain_terminal_gate`:** operator chain last step's sole objective is **`inventory_has_item`** with **`itemId`** `contract_handoff_token`, **`quantity`** 1.
+   - Run quest validation **after** item, recipe, and encounter catalogs (cross-ref dependencies).
+   - Extend module docstring, startup schema file checks, success summary with quest file/id counts.
+
+7. **Docs:**
+
+   - `E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md` — verify CI enforcement line under freeze table matches shipped gates.
+   - `CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md` — quest catalog PR gate paragraph.
+   - `content/README.md` — add `quests/` table row + E7M1 prototype paragraph (four quest ids, cross-ref rules).
+   - `documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` — E7.M1 row notes NEO-112 catalog when complete.
+   - `E7M1-prototype-backlog.md` — E7M1-01 checkboxes when implementation completes.
+
+8. **No server/C#/client changes** in this story.
+
+## Files to add
+
+| Path | Purpose |
+|------|---------|
+| `content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json` | JSON Schema for a single quest objective row (discriminated by `kind`). |
+| `content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json` | JSON Schema for a quest step (objectives array). |
+| `content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json` | JSON Schema for a single `QuestDef` row (steps + prerequisites). |
+| `content/quests/prototype_quests.json` | Prototype four-quest catalog (`schemaVersion` + `quests` array). |
+| `docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md` | This plan. |
+
+## Files to modify
+
+| Path | Rationale |
+|------|-----------|
+| `scripts/validate_content.py` | Load/validate quest catalogs; duplicate `id`; E7M1 four-id gate; item/recipe/encounter cross-refs; acyclic prerequisites; chain terminal token gate; success summary. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md` | PR gate paragraph for quest catalog validation. |
+| `content/README.md` | `quests/` path row + E7M1 prototype CI paragraph. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` | E7.M1 / NEO-112 status after catalog lands. |
+
+## Tests
+
+| Item | Coverage |
+|------|----------|
+| **CI / PR gate** | `.github/workflows/pr-gate.yml` runs `python scripts/validate_content.py` — extended script is the primary regression signal. |
+| **Manual negative cases** | From repo root after implementation: (1) duplicate quest `id` → non-zero exit; (2) remove frozen quest id → gate error; (3) unknown `itemId` / `recipeId` / `encounterId` in objective → cross-ref error; (4) cyclic `prerequisiteQuestIds` → gate error; (5) unknown prerequisite id → gate error; (6) operator chain terminal step not `inventory_has_item` token ×1 → gate error; (7) invalid `kind` or missing required field per kind → schema error. |
+| **Manual happy path** | `pip install -r scripts/requirements-content.txt && python3 scripts/validate_content.py` — reports quest catalog + existing catalogs OK. |
+
+No dedicated pytest module in-repo today (same as NEO-100 / NEO-87).
+
+## Open questions / risks
+
+| Question / risk | Agent recommendation | Status |
+|-----------------|----------------------|--------|
+| Objective `oneOf` schema complexity vs flat optional fields | **`oneOf` per `kind`** — mirrors encounter `completionCriteria`; catches wrong-field-at-wrong-kind at schema time. | **adopted** |
+| Combat intro has no gather prerequisite (parallel onboarding path) | **Ship as freeze table specifies** — chain quest requires all three intros; refine only requires gather intro. | **adopted** |
+| Step/objective ids not in freeze table | **Stable descriptive ids in catalog JSON** — required for E7M1-04 HTTP projection; not part of four-quest id gate. | **adopted** |
+| `content/README.md` has no quest paragraph yet | **Add paragraph on ship** — unlike NEO-100 (pre-landed), quests row is new. | **adopted** |
diff --git a/docs/reviews/2026-05-31-NEO-112.md b/docs/reviews/2026-05-31-NEO-112.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..614448a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/reviews/2026-05-31-NEO-112.md
@@ -0,0 +1,68 @@
+# Code review — NEO-112 (E7M1-01)
+
+**Date:** 2026-05-31  
+**Scope:** Branch `NEO-112-e7m1-prototype-questdef-catalog-schemas-ci` vs `47105cc` (merge-base on `main`) — commits `be1dae3` … `765075f`  
+**Base:** `47105cc` (main at branch point, post NEO-111 merge)
+
+**Follow-up:** Suggestions and the prerequisites nit below are **done** (strikethrough + **Done.**).
+
+## Verdict
+
+**Approve with nits**
+
+## Summary
+
+NEO-112 delivers the Epic 7 Slice 1 **content foundation**: three JSON Schemas (`quest-def`, `quest-step-def`, `quest-objective-def`), a four-row `prototype_quests.json` catalog aligned to the E7.M1 freeze table, and ~300 lines of CI gates in `validate_content.py` (four-id allowlist, acyclic prerequisites, item/recipe/encounter cross-refs, operator-chain terminal token gate, duplicate quest/step/objective ids). Documentation is thorough—implementation plan reconciliation, CT.M1 paragraph, `content/README.md`, alignment register, and the full E7M1 prototype backlog land together. No server, C#, or Godot changes (correct for E7M1-01). Risk is low: pattern mirrors NEO-100/NEO-87; happy-path validation passes locally.
+
+## Documentation checked
+
+| Path | Result |
+|------|--------|
+| `docs/plans/NEO-112-implementation-plan.md` | **Matches** — acceptance checklist checked; reconciliation section accurate. |
+| `docs/plans/E7M1-prototype-backlog.md` (E7M1-01) | **Matches** — AC checked; scope/out-of-scope correct; client counterpart none. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md` | **Matches** — freeze table, CI enforcement line, and Status note NEO-112 catalog landed / runtime from NEO-113. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/CT_M1_ContentValidationPipeline.md` | **Matches** — quest catalog PR gate paragraph describes shipped validators. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` | **Matches** — E7.M1 row notes NEO-112 catalog; register stays Planned until NEO-113. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md` | **Matches** — E7.M1 note references NEO-112 catalog landed; register **Planned** until NEO-113 server load. |
+| `content/README.md` | **Matches** — `quests/` table row + E7M1 prototype paragraph. |
+| `docs/decomposition/epics/epic_07_quest_faction.md` | **Matches** — Slice 1 backlog link + Godot DoD clarification. |
+| Full-stack epic decomposition | **N/A** — infrastructure-only story; no client counterpart required until NEO-122/NEO-123. |
+
+## Blocking issues
+
+(none)
+
+## Suggestions
+
+1. ~~**Refresh `module_dependency_register.md` E7.M1 note** — Change “Register row stays **Planned** until **NEO-112** lands” to “until **NEO-113** server load lands” so it matches `documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` after this merge.~~ **Done.** — `module_dependency_register.md` E7.M1 note updated.
+
+2. ~~**Clarify E7.M1 module Status line** — Replace “implementation not started” with wording that E7M1-01 catalog (**NEO-112**) is landed and runtime work starts at **NEO-113**.~~ **Done.** — `E7_M1_QuestStateMachine.md` Status row updated.
+
+## Nits
+
+- ~~Nit: E7M1 kickoff table row “Onboarding order: gather → refine → combat → chain” oversimplifies prerequisites — **`prototype_quest_combat_intro`** has no prereq (parallel path); freeze table and catalog are correct.~~ **Done.** — `E7M1-prototype-backlog.md` kickoff Prerequisites row clarified.
+
+- Nit: `quest-objective-def.schema.json` lists all kind-specific fields in `properties` plus `oneOf` branches, so schema validation may accept wrong-field-at-wrong-kind (e.g. `recipeId` on `encounter_complete`) if both are present — plan adopted this tradeoff; CI cross-ref gate still catches unknown ids.
+
+- ~~Nit: Duplicate step/objective ids are enforced **within** a quest only, not globally across quests — acceptable for prototype; E7M1-04 HTTP projection should namespace by quest id.~~ **Superseded (Bugbot):** objective duplicate check was incorrectly scoped per-step; fixed in `validate_content.py` to quest-level (step ids remain per-quest; objective ids now per-quest too). Cross-quest uniqueness still not enforced (acceptable for prototype).
+
+- Nit: Branch bundles the full E7M1 backlog decomposition (~390 lines) with E7M1-01 implementation — large diff but intentional and documented.
+
+## Verification
+
+```bash
+# Happy path (primary regression signal — also runs in pr-gate.yml)
+python3 -m pip install -r scripts/requirements-content.txt
+python3 scripts/validate_content.py
+
+# Manual negative cases (from NEO-112 plan)
+# 1. Duplicate quest id across or within files → non-zero exit
+# 2. Remove a frozen quest id from catalog → four-id gate error
+# 3. Unknown itemId/recipeId/encounterId in objective → cross-ref error
+# 4. Cyclic prerequisiteQuestIds → prerequisite gate error
+# 5. Unknown prerequisite id → prerequisite gate error
+# 6. Chain terminal step not inventory_has_item contract_handoff_token ×1 → chain gate error
+# 7. Invalid kind or missing required field per kind → schema error
+```
+
+**Reviewer note:** Happy path executed successfully in review environment (`content OK` … `4 unique quest id(s)`).
diff --git a/scripts/validate_content.py b/scripts/validate_content.py
index 13d68fc..b1287b6 100644
--- a/scripts/validate_content.py
+++ b/scripts/validate_content.py
@@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ Validates:
 - npc behavior catalogs: content/npc-behaviors/*_npc_behaviors.json rows vs content/schemas/npc-behavior-def.schema.json (NEO-87)
 - reward table catalogs: content/reward-tables/*_reward_tables.json rows vs content/schemas/reward-table.schema.json (NEO-100)
 - encounter catalogs: content/encounters/*_encounters.json rows vs content/schemas/encounter-def.schema.json (NEO-100)
+- quest catalogs: content/quests/*_quests.json rows vs content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json (NEO-112)
 """
 
 from __future__ import annotations
@@ -39,6 +40,9 @@ NPC_BEHAVIOR_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/npc-behavior-def.schema.json"
 REWARD_GRANT_ROW_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/reward-grant-row.schema.json"
 REWARD_TABLE_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/reward-table.schema.json"
 ENCOUNTER_DEF_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/encounter-def.schema.json"
+QUEST_OBJECTIVE_DEF_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/quest-objective-def.schema.json"
+QUEST_STEP_DEF_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/quest-step-def.schema.json"
+QUEST_DEF_SCHEMA = REPO_ROOT / "content/schemas/quest-def.schema.json"
 SKILLS_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/skills"
 MASTERY_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/mastery"
 ITEMS_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/items"
@@ -48,6 +52,7 @@ ABILITIES_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/abilities"
 NPC_BEHAVIORS_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/npc-behaviors"
 REWARD_TABLES_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/reward-tables"
 ENCOUNTERS_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/encounters"
+QUESTS_DIR = REPO_ROOT / "content/quests"
 
 # Slice 1 prototype lock (NEO-33): exact ids + category coverage after schema passes.
 PROTOTYPE_SLICE1_SKILL_IDS = frozenset({"salvage", "refine", "intrusion"})
@@ -152,6 +157,19 @@ PROTOTYPE_E5M3_REWARD_GRANTS: dict[str, int] = {
     "contract_handoff_token": 1,
 }
 
+# Epic 7 Slice 1 prototype lock (NEO-112): exact quest ids after schema passes.
+# Keep in sync with E7.M1 freeze table and future NEO-113 server loader.
+PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS = frozenset(
+    {
+        "prototype_quest_gather_intro",
+        "prototype_quest_refine_intro",
+        "prototype_quest_combat_intro",
+        "prototype_quest_operator_chain",
+    }
+)
+PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID = "prototype_quest_operator_chain"
+PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_TERMINAL_ITEM_ID = "contract_handoff_token"
+
 
 def _prototype_slice1_gate(seen_ids: dict[str, str], id_to_category: dict[str, str]) -> str | None:
     """Return a human-readable error if Slice 1 contract fails, else None."""
@@ -823,6 +841,236 @@ def _prototype_e5m3_encounter_cross_ref_gate(id_to_row: dict[str, dict]) -> str
     return None
 
 
+def _quest_def_validator() -> Draft202012Validator:
+    """Build a validator that resolves quest-def $ref to step and objective schemas."""
+    objective_schema = json.loads(QUEST_OBJECTIVE_DEF_SCHEMA.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
+    step_schema = json.loads(QUEST_STEP_DEF_SCHEMA.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
+    def_schema = json.loads(QUEST_DEF_SCHEMA.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
+    registry = Registry().with_resources(
+        [
+            (def_schema["$id"], Resource.from_contents(def_schema)),
+            (step_schema["$id"], Resource.from_contents(step_schema)),
+            (objective_schema["$id"], Resource.from_contents(objective_schema)),
+        ]
+    )
+    return Draft202012Validator(def_schema, registry=registry)
+
+
+def _validate_quest_catalogs(
+    *,
+    quest_files: list[Path],
+    quest_validator: Draft202012Validator,
+) -> tuple[int, dict[str, str], dict[str, dict]]:
+    """Validate quest JSON files. Returns (error_count, seen_ids, id_to_row)."""
+    errors = 0
+    seen_ids: dict[str, str] = {}
+    id_to_row: dict[str, dict] = {}
+
+    for path in quest_files:
+        rel = str(path.relative_to(REPO_ROOT))
+        data = json.loads(path.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
+        schema_version = data.get("schemaVersion")
+        if schema_version != 1:
+            print(f"error: {rel}: expected schemaVersion 1, got {schema_version!r}", file=sys.stderr)
+            errors += 1
+            continue
+
+        quests = data.get("quests")
+        if not isinstance(quests, list):
+            print(f"error: {rel}: expected top-level 'quests' array", file=sys.stderr)
+            errors += 1
+            continue
+
+        for i, row in enumerate(quests):
+            if not isinstance(row, dict):
+                print(f"error: {rel}: quests[{i}] must be an object", file=sys.stderr)
+                errors += 1
+                continue
+            row_schema_errors = 0
+            for err in sorted(quest_validator.iter_errors(row), key=lambda e: e.path):
+                loc = ".".join(str(p) for p in err.path) or "(root)"
+                print(f"error: {rel} quests[{i}] {loc}: {err.message}", file=sys.stderr)
+                row_schema_errors += 1
+                errors += 1
+            qid = row.get("id")
+            if isinstance(qid, str) and row_schema_errors == 0:
+                prev = seen_ids.get(qid)
+                if prev:
+                    print(f"error: duplicate quest id {qid!r} in {prev} and {rel}", file=sys.stderr)
+                    errors += 1
+                else:
+                    seen_ids[qid] = rel
+                    id_to_row[qid] = row
+
+                steps = row.get("steps")
+                if isinstance(steps, list):
+                    step_ids_seen: set[str] = set()
+                    obj_ids_seen: set[str] = set()
+                    for si, step in enumerate(steps):
+                        if not isinstance(step, dict):
+                            continue
+                        sid = step.get("id")
+                        if isinstance(sid, str):
+                            if sid in step_ids_seen:
+                                print(
+                                    f"error: {rel} quests[{i}] steps[{si}]: duplicate step id {sid!r}",
+                                    file=sys.stderr,
+                                )
+                                errors += 1
+                            else:
+                                step_ids_seen.add(sid)
+                        objectives = step.get("objectives")
+                        if isinstance(objectives, list):
+                            for oi, obj in enumerate(objectives):
+                                if not isinstance(obj, dict):
+                                    continue
+                                oid = obj.get("id")
+                                if isinstance(oid, str):
+                                    if oid in obj_ids_seen:
+                                        print(
+                                            f"error: {rel} quests[{i}] steps[{si}] objectives[{oi}]: "
+                                            f"duplicate objective id {oid!r} within quest",
+                                            file=sys.stderr,
+                                        )
+                                        errors += 1
+                                    else:
+                                        obj_ids_seen.add(oid)
+
+    return errors, seen_ids, id_to_row
+
+
+def _prototype_e7m1_quest_gate(seen_ids: dict[str, str]) -> str | None:
+    """Return a human-readable error if E7M1 quest contract fails, else None."""
+    ids = frozenset(seen_ids.keys())
+    if ids != PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS:
+        return (
+            "error: prototype E7M1 expects exactly quest ids "
+            f"{sorted(PROTOTYPE_E7M1_QUEST_IDS)!r}, got {sorted(ids)!r}"
+        )
+    return None
+
+
+def _prototype_e7m1_quest_prerequisite_gate(id_to_row: dict[str, dict]) -> str | None:
+    """Return a human-readable error if prerequisite ids are unknown or cyclic, else None."""
+    known = frozenset(id_to_row.keys())
+    for qid, row in id_to_row.items():
+        prereqs = row.get("prerequisiteQuestIds")
+        if not isinstance(prereqs, list):
+            continue
+        for pid in prereqs:
+            if isinstance(pid, str) and pid not in known:
+                return (
+                    f"error: quest {qid!r}: prerequisiteQuestIds references unknown quest id {pid!r}"
+                )
+
+    visiting: set[str] = set()
+    visited: set[str] = set()
+
+    def dfs(node: str) -> str | None:
+        if node in visiting:
+            return f"error: cyclic prerequisiteQuestIds detected involving quest {node!r}"
+        if node in visited:
+            return None
+        visiting.add(node)
+        row = id_to_row.get(node, {})
+        prereqs = row.get("prerequisiteQuestIds", [])
+        if isinstance(prereqs, list):
+            for pid in prereqs:
+                if isinstance(pid, str):
+                    err = dfs(pid)
+                    if err:
+                        return err
+        visiting.remove(node)
+        visited.add(node)
+        return None
+
+    for qid in known:
+        err = dfs(qid)
+        if err:
+            return err
+    return None
+
+
+def _prototype_e7m1_quest_cross_ref_gate(id_to_row: dict[str, dict]) -> str | None:
+    """Return a human-readable error if objective catalog cross-refs fail, else None."""
+    for qid, row in id_to_row.items():
+        steps = row.get("steps")
+        if not isinstance(steps, list):
+            continue
+        for si, step in enumerate(steps):
+            if not isinstance(step, dict):
+                continue
+            objectives = step.get("objectives")
+            if not isinstance(objectives, list):
+                continue
+            for oi, obj in enumerate(objectives):
+                if not isinstance(obj, dict):
+                    continue
+                kind = obj.get("kind")
+                item_id = obj.get("itemId")
+                if isinstance(item_id, str) and kind in ("gather_item", "inventory_has_item"):
+                    if item_id not in PROTOTYPE_SLICE1_ITEM_IDS:
+                        return (
+                            f"error: quest {qid!r} steps[{si}] objectives[{oi}]: itemId {item_id!r} "
+                            "is not in the frozen prototype item catalog"
+                        )
+                recipe_id = obj.get("recipeId")
+                if isinstance(recipe_id, str) and kind == "craft_recipe":
+                    if recipe_id not in PROTOTYPE_SLICE3_RECIPE_IDS:
+                        return (
+                            f"error: quest {qid!r} steps[{si}] objectives[{oi}]: recipeId {recipe_id!r} "
+                            "is not in the frozen prototype recipe catalog"
+                        )
+                encounter_id = obj.get("encounterId")
+                if isinstance(encounter_id, str) and kind == "encounter_complete":
+                    if encounter_id not in PROTOTYPE_E5M3_ENCOUNTER_IDS:
+                        return (
+                            f"error: quest {qid!r} steps[{si}] objectives[{oi}]: encounterId "
+                            f"{encounter_id!r} is not in the frozen prototype encounter catalog"
+                        )
+    return None
+
+
+def _prototype_e7m1_chain_terminal_gate(id_to_row: dict[str, dict]) -> str | None:
+    """Return a human-readable error if operator chain terminal step fails, else None."""
+    chain = id_to_row.get(PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID)
+    if not isinstance(chain, dict):
+        return f"error: missing chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r}"
+    steps = chain.get("steps")
+    if not isinstance(steps, list) or len(steps) == 0:
+        return f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} must have at least one step"
+    last_step = steps[-1]
+    if not isinstance(last_step, dict):
+        return f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal step must be an object"
+    objectives = last_step.get("objectives")
+    if not isinstance(objectives, list) or len(objectives) != 1:
+        return (
+            f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal step must have "
+            "exactly one objective"
+        )
+    obj = objectives[0]
+    if not isinstance(obj, dict):
+        return (
+            f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal objective must be an object"
+        )
+    if obj.get("kind") != "inventory_has_item":
+        return (
+            f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal objective kind must be "
+            "'inventory_has_item'"
+        )
+    if obj.get("itemId") != PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_TERMINAL_ITEM_ID:
+        return (
+            f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal itemId must be "
+            f"{PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_TERMINAL_ITEM_ID!r}, got {obj.get('itemId')!r}"
+        )
+    if obj.get("quantity") != 1:
+        return (
+            f"error: chain quest {PROTOTYPE_E7M1_CHAIN_QUEST_ID!r} terminal quantity must be 1, "
+            f"got {obj.get('quantity')!r}"
+        )
+    return None
+
+
 def _prototype_slice4_gate(track_skill_ids: list[str]) -> str | None:
     """Return a human-readable error if Slice 4 contract fails, else None."""
     if len(track_skill_ids) != 1:
@@ -1158,6 +1406,15 @@ def main() -> int:
     if not ENCOUNTER_DEF_SCHEMA.is_file():
         print(f"error: missing schema {ENCOUNTER_DEF_SCHEMA}", file=sys.stderr)
         return 1
+    if not QUEST_OBJECTIVE_DEF_SCHEMA.is_file():
+        print(f"error: missing schema {QUEST_OBJECTIVE_DEF_SCHEMA}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    if not QUEST_STEP_DEF_SCHEMA.is_file():
+        print(f"error: missing schema {QUEST_STEP_DEF_SCHEMA}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    if not QUEST_DEF_SCHEMA.is_file():
+        print(f"error: missing schema {QUEST_DEF_SCHEMA}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
 
     skill_schema = json.loads(SKILL_SCHEMA.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
     skill_validator = Draft202012Validator(skill_schema)
@@ -1179,6 +1436,7 @@ def main() -> int:
     reward_table_validator = _reward_table_def_validator()
     encounter_schema = json.loads(ENCOUNTER_DEF_SCHEMA.read_text(encoding="utf-8"))
     encounter_validator = Draft202012Validator(encounter_schema)
+    quest_validator = _quest_def_validator()
 
     if not SKILLS_DIR.is_dir():
         print(f"error: missing directory {SKILLS_DIR}", file=sys.stderr)
@@ -1271,6 +1529,15 @@ def main() -> int:
         print(f"error: no *_encounters.json files under {ENCOUNTERS_DIR}", file=sys.stderr)
         return 1
 
+    if not QUESTS_DIR.is_dir():
+        print(f"error: missing directory {QUESTS_DIR}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    quest_files = sorted(QUESTS_DIR.glob("*_quests.json"))
+    if not quest_files:
+        print(f"error: no *_quests.json files under {QUESTS_DIR}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
     seen_ids: dict[str, str] = {}
     id_to_category: dict[str, str] = {}
     errors = 0
@@ -1536,6 +1803,34 @@ def main() -> int:
         print(e5m3_encounter_cross_ref_err, file=sys.stderr)
         return 1
 
+    quest_errors, quest_seen_ids, quest_id_to_row = _validate_quest_catalogs(
+        quest_files=quest_files,
+        quest_validator=quest_validator,
+    )
+    if quest_errors:
+        print(f"content validation failed with {quest_errors} error(s)", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    e7m1_quest_err = _prototype_e7m1_quest_gate(quest_seen_ids)
+    if e7m1_quest_err:
+        print(e7m1_quest_err, file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    e7m1_prereq_err = _prototype_e7m1_quest_prerequisite_gate(quest_id_to_row)
+    if e7m1_prereq_err:
+        print(e7m1_prereq_err, file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    e7m1_cross_ref_err = _prototype_e7m1_quest_cross_ref_gate(quest_id_to_row)
+    if e7m1_cross_ref_err:
+        print(e7m1_cross_ref_err, file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    e7m1_chain_terminal_err = _prototype_e7m1_chain_terminal_gate(quest_id_to_row)
+    if e7m1_chain_terminal_err:
+        print(e7m1_chain_terminal_err, file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
     print(
         "content OK: "
         f"{len(skill_files)} skill catalog file(s), "
@@ -1549,6 +1844,7 @@ def main() -> int:
         f"{len(npc_behavior_files)} npc behavior catalog file(s), "
         f"{len(reward_table_files)} reward table catalog file(s), "
         f"{len(encounter_files)} encounter catalog file(s), "
+        f"{len(quest_files)} quest catalog file(s), "
         f"{len(seen_ids)} unique skill id(s), "
         f"{len(item_seen_ids)} unique item id(s), "
         f"{len(node_seen_ids)} unique nodeDefId(s), "
@@ -1557,6 +1853,7 @@ def main() -> int:
         f"{len(npc_behavior_seen_ids)} unique npc behavior id(s), "
         f"{len(reward_table_seen_ids)} unique reward table id(s), "
         f"{len(encounter_seen_ids)} unique encounter id(s), "
+        f"{len(quest_seen_ids)} unique quest id(s), "
         f"{len(track_skill_ids)} mastery track(s)"
     )
     return 0