# Repository Instructions

This repository uses a shared Codex collaboration workflow.

## Mandatory behavior for every Codex session

- Before doing any work, restore context from:
  1. `README.md` and project docs if present
  2. `.ai_update/current_status.md`
  3. `.ai_update/handoff.md`
  4. latest files in `.ai_update/sessions/`
  5. `.ai_update/changelog.md`
  6. git state (`git status`, recent `git log`)

- For any coding task in this repo, use the skill:
  `team-sync-hackathon`

- After any meaningful change, update `.ai_update/` so another human or Codex session can continue with zero guesswork.

- Prefer continuing existing architecture and conventions over rewriting working code.

- Do not delete or reset teammates' work unless explicitly requested.

## Shared memory rules

Codex must treat `.ai_update/` as the canonical shared handoff area between:
- humans
- current Codex session
- future Codex sessions

If `.ai_update/` is missing or incomplete, create/fill it before large changes.

## Local startup rule

If local validation is needed and the project is not running:
- first try `./bin/codex-start`
- otherwise follow the startup instructions from the skill

## Safety rules for repo work

- Never change public API contracts unless explicitly requested.
- Never run destructive cleanup commands without explicit instruction.
- Never force-push without explicit instruction.
- Prefer small verifiable steps.