<EXPLICIT-MODE-GATE> If activation mode is explicit (`~/.config/aegis/config.toml` has `activation_mode = "explicit"`, or `AEGIS_ACTIVATION_MODE=explicit` is visible in the environment) and the current user request did not explicitly invoke Aegis or this skill by name, exit back to the fast path: answer concisely without this workflow's checklist, ceremony, or document requirements. If the user explicitly named Aegis or this skill, proceed normally. </EXPLICIT-MODE-GATE>

Execute

→ Direct grilling or plan/design pressure-test? → Enter Grilling Mode below. Soft challenge intent? → Use its one-line mode confirmation. Do not start normal design artifacts, document writing, task planning, or implementation during the interview. → New feature, product behavior, UI/component design, architecture/contract change, or ambiguous medium/high-complexity work? → Design first. No implementation until the needed design/spec is approved.

1. Explore project context → read authority docs, check for existing patterns
2. Ask clarifying questions one at a time (prefer multiple choice)
3. Propose 2-3 approaches with trade-offs and your recommendation
4. Present design sections → get user approval after each
5. Write spec → self-review → user review → transition to writing-plans → HARD GATE: For tasks that match this skill, do NOT write code, scaffold projects, or invoke implementation skills until design/spec approval is satisfied.

Route Fixtures

These rows are calibration expectations for method behavior, not a runtime regex router. The Agent selects the route from evidence; route selection is not a user question.