The NPC Map

// Scripted agents — decode disruptors, loops & passive-aggressive scripts.

// How to Read the Map

We map behaviors, not worth. Spot the Tell, name the Script, apply a clean Counter-Move. Move slow; refuse performance.

Format: Tell → Script → Counter-Move. If tension increases, reduce words and slow the room.

// Legend

Tell
Observable cue (words, timing, gaze, spacing) that reveals a pattern starting.

Script
Predictable sequence the system wants you to enact (defend, hurry, prove).

Counter-Move
Short, sealed response that declines the performance and restores pace.

Field Notes
Context, thresholds, or stack behavior to watch for (double tendrils, redirects).

// Archetypes

Common scripted roles you’ll meet at thresholds: counters, doors, queues, and group spaces.

Validator // “Are you sure?”

Tell: Re-asks answered questions; hunts for reassurance signals.

Script: You defend clarity; they hold the pen on “reasonable.”

Counter-Move: “I’m clear.” (full stop) Resume prior action; no extra proof.

Field Notes: Often paired with the Righteousness Flip if you keep your line.

Hoverer // Proximity Pressure

Tell: Drifts inside your distance, reacting to your micro-moves.

Script: You speed up, talk more, or cede positioning.

Counter-Move: Reset distance. Slow breath. Continue task without commentary.

Field Notes: Combine with “Distance as Law” drill.

Scripted Humorist // Tone Bait

Tell: Jokes that require your laugh to proceed.

Script: You validate; they gain time & status while you lose pace.

Counter-Move: Neutral face. “No thanks.” Return to task.

Field Notes: If humor fails, expect a mild righteousness flip.

Over-Talker // Channel Flood

Tell: Rapid info dump after your clear request.

Script: You track their channel instead of your objective.

Counter-Move: “Run it as asked.” or “I’ll wait for the result.” (silence)

Field Notes: Works with Card Reader Interrogation patterns.

Orbit Coordinator // Group Pivot

Tell: Quick glances to others; subtle nods that redistribute attention.

Script: Group “decides” your access while no one owns it.

Counter-Move: Address the owner directly: “Who can authorize this?” (wait)

Field Notes: Often anchors Stall Gate loops at counters.

Returner // The Loop

Tell: Sends you back to the same blocked step (“Go ask them first”).

Script: You accept the loop and erode resolve.

Counter-Move: “Who resolves this here?” If redirected again: “I’m good.” Exit.

Field Notes: Classic Double Tendril (stall → redirect back).

Retroactive Normalizer // “It’s always been like this.”

Tell: After you note an absence (“I never see anyone do X”), multiple people suddenly perform X in obvious view—often at the same time.

Script: Overwrite your memory and pace so you doubt your perception and accept the injected behavior as normal.

Counter-Move: “Noted. This is new.” (silent after) Treat multiplication as signal of panic, not proof. Resume your original action and timing.

Field Notes: Pattern window is usually 24–48h after your first observation; duplication (2+ at once) is a tell. Log the “before” in one line to anchor recall.

// Ethics & Care

We honor people; we refuse scripts. Use this map to keep your field clean — not to label or punish. If you’re unsure, slow down and ask a clean question.