J3 D8-f #2: T4 difficulty lift (leaders-define-band) + feywild fork1 soft-lock fix

T4 monster tuning so martial leaders land in the 60-75% band (underdark
59/80, feywild 65/84 at L10/L12, n=50); casters trail (class-side gap that
monster tuning provably can't compress -- Pass 1 showed casters pinned at 0%
while martials moved). T5 deferred (walls everyone at its L12 floor; needs an
L15-16 corpus).

- dnd_bestiary.go: underdark elite/boss HP+AC up + caster-lethal proc cuts
  (mind_flayer/drow_mage/roper); feywild HP+AC up.
- bestiary_srd.go: feywild multiattack profiles (fomorian/night_hag/green_hag)
  + Thornmother 2->3 lashes -- HP/AC alone didn't move feywild's low-damage
  roster; multiattack is what pulls facerolling martials into band.
- zone_graph_feywild_crossing.go: free fork1's marsh edge. fork1 was the only
  fork in the game with every exit skill-locked (CHA+Perception, no LockNone)
  and deterministic no-retry rolls -- a prod SOFT-LOCK stranding ~60% of
  players (low CHA+WIS). Kept grove's CHA bargain as a bonus route.
- expedition_sim.go: firstUnlockedForkChoice -- sim fork policy picks the
  first unlocked option instead of blind 'go 1' (which looped forever on
  locked forks); halts fork_all_locked if none.
- tests: graph-wide TestZoneGraphs_NoSoftLockedFork + fork1 free-path guard.

Writeup: sim_results/d8f_findings.md

internal/plugin/adventure.go

@@ -220,6 +220,10 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) Init() error {
 	// migration walks dnd_character once at startup; idempotent via
 	// JobCompleted gate.
 	bootstrapPhase5BHPRefresh()
+	// J3 D8-d-fix: caster HP lift (casterHPMult in dnd.go). Refresh
+	// existing caster rows once at startup so the lift reaches live
+	// players without waiting for level-up.
+	bootstrapCasterHPRefresh()
 	// Phase R1 orphan-archive used to run here on every Init, but it
 	// over-archived: it treats any active dnd_zone_run row not linked to
 	// an active expedition as a legacy `!adventure dungeon` orphan, which

internal/plugin/bestiary_srd.go

@@ -83,9 +83,10 @@ var srdProfiles = map[string]SRDProfile{
 		{Name: "Scourge", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 13},
 		{Name: "Scourge", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 12},
 	}},
-	"boss_thornmother": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // Attack 18 → ~23
-		{Name: "Thorned Lash", AttackBonus: 8, Damage: 12},
-		{Name: "Thorned Lash", AttackBonus: 8, Damage: 11},
+	"boss_thornmother": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // D8-f #2: 2→3 lashes, ~23→~36 (faceroll → band)
+		{Name: "Thorned Lash", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 13},
+		{Name: "Thorned Lash", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 12},
+		{Name: "Thorned Lash", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 11},
 	}},
 	"boss_infernax": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // Attack 38 → ~49
 		{Name: "Bite", AttackBonus: 11, Damage: 19},
@@ -169,6 +170,24 @@ var srdProfiles = map[string]SRDProfile{
 		{Name: "Unarmed Strike", AttackBonus: 6, Damage: 6},
 		{Name: "Bite", AttackBonus: 6, Damage: 4},
 	}},
+
+	// ── Feywild elites (D8-f #2) ─────────────────────────────────────────
+	// Feywild martials facerolled at 97–100% even after an HP/AC raise: the
+	// roster was single-attack and low-damage, so tankier monsters just took
+	// longer to kill. Multiattack is the lever that actually pulls leaders
+	// into band (mirrors underdark's drow_elite). Casters trail (by design).
+	"fomorian": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // Attack 13 → ~21 (2 big fists)
+		{Name: "Greatclub", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 11},
+		{Name: "Greatclub", AttackBonus: 9, Damage: 10},
+	}},
+	"night_hag": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // Attack 8 → ~12 (claw flurry)
+		{Name: "Claws", AttackBonus: 7, Damage: 6},
+		{Name: "Claws", AttackBonus: 7, Damage: 6},
+	}},
+	"green_hag": {Attacks: []SRDAttack{ // Attack 6 → ~10 (claw flurry)
+		{Name: "Claws", AttackBonus: 6, Damage: 5},
+		{Name: "Claws", AttackBonus: 6, Damage: 5},
+	}},
 }
 
 // enemyAttackProfile returns the attack rolls a creature makes on its turn.

internal/plugin/bootstrap_caster_hp.go

@@ -0,0 +1,84 @@
+package plugin
+
+import (
+	"log/slog"
+
+	"gogobee/internal/db"
+)
+
+// bootstrapCasterHPRefresh recomputes hp_max for caster characters after
+// the J3 D8-d-fix caster HP multiplier (casterHPMult in dnd.go) shipped.
+// Without this, existing caster rows keep their pre-lift hp_max until
+// the next computeMaxHP recall (level-up / reset). Mirrors
+// bootstrapPhase5BHPRefresh — only ever raises hp_max, preserves the
+// absolute wound (delta added to hp_current, capped at new max). Run
+// once per startup, idempotent via db.JobCompleted.
+func bootstrapCasterHPRefresh() {
+	const jobName = "caster_hp_refresh_v1"
+	if db.JobCompleted(jobName, "once") {
+		return
+	}
+
+	d := db.Get()
+	rows, err := d.Query(`
+		SELECT user_id, class, con_score, dnd_level, hp_max, hp_current
+		FROM dnd_character WHERE dnd_level > 0`)
+	if err != nil {
+		slog.Error("caster hp refresh: enumerate failed", "err", err)
+		return
+	}
+	defer rows.Close()
+
+	type row struct {
+		userID    string
+		class     DnDClass
+		conScore  int
+		level     int
+		hpMax     int
+		hpCurrent int
+	}
+	var batch []row
+	for rows.Next() {
+		var r row
+		var classStr string
+		if err := rows.Scan(&r.userID, &classStr, &r.conScore, &r.level, &r.hpMax, &r.hpCurrent); err != nil {
+			slog.Warn("caster hp refresh: scan failed", "err", err)
+			continue
+		}
+		r.class = DnDClass(classStr)
+		batch = append(batch, r)
+	}
+
+	refreshed := 0
+	for _, r := range batch {
+		if casterHPMult(r.class) == 1.0 {
+			continue
+		}
+		conMod := abilityModifier(r.conScore)
+		newMax := computeMaxHP(r.class, conMod, r.level)
+		if newMax <= r.hpMax {
+			continue
+		}
+		delta := newMax - r.hpMax
+		newCurrent := r.hpCurrent + delta
+		if newCurrent > newMax {
+			newCurrent = newMax
+		}
+		if newCurrent < 1 {
+			newCurrent = 1
+		}
+		if _, err := d.Exec(`UPDATE dnd_character
+			SET hp_max = ?, hp_current = ?, updated_at = CURRENT_TIMESTAMP
+			WHERE user_id = ?`,
+			newMax, newCurrent, r.userID); err != nil {
+			slog.Warn("caster hp refresh: update failed", "user", r.userID, "err", err)
+			continue
+		}
+		refreshed++
+	}
+
+	db.MarkJobCompleted(jobName, "once")
+	if refreshed > 0 {
+		slog.Info("caster hp refresh: refreshed caster HPMax to D8-d-fix floor", "count", refreshed)
+	}
+}

internal/plugin/combat_cmd.go

@@ -27,6 +27,19 @@ func encounterIDForRoom(roomIdx int) string {
 	return fmt.Sprintf("room%d", roomIdx)
 }
 
+// replyDM sends a player-facing combat reply unless ctx.Silent is set. The
+// turn-engine combat commands route all their DMs through here so the
+// background autopilot can drive a boss/elite fight on the real engine
+// (long-expedition D8-f) without spamming the player a DM per round — the
+// state mutations (HP, XP, threat, run-clear) still happen; only the
+// narration is dropped. Non-silent callers (manual !fight) are unchanged.
+func (p *AdventurePlugin) replyDM(ctx MessageContext, text string) error {
+	if ctx.Silent {
+		return nil
+	}
+	return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, text)
+}
+
 // ── !fight ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
 
 func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleFightCmd(ctx MessageContext) error {
@@ -36,25 +49,25 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleFightCmd(ctx MessageContext) error {
 
 	run, err := getActiveZoneRun(ctx.Sender)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't read run state: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't read run state: "+err.Error())
 	}
 	if run == nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "No active zone run. Use `!zone enter <id>` first.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "No active zone run. Use `!zone enter <id>` first.")
 	}
 	roomType := run.CurrentRoomType()
 	if roomType != RoomElite && roomType != RoomBoss {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Nothing to fight here — `!fight` is for Elite and Boss rooms. Use `!zone advance`.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Nothing to fight here — `!fight` is for Elite and Boss rooms. Use `!zone advance`.")
 	}
 
 	encID := encounterIDForRoom(run.CurrentRoom)
 	if existing, _ := getCombatSessionForEncounter(run.RunID, encID); existing != nil {
 		switch existing.Status {
 		case CombatStatusActive:
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You're already in this fight — `!attack` or `!flee`.")
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "You're already in this fight — `!attack` or `!flee`.")
 		case CombatStatusWon:
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You've already cleared this room. "+continueHint(ctx.Sender))
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "You've already cleared this room. "+continueHint(ctx.Sender))
 		default:
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "This fight is already over. `!zone status` for where you stand.")
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "This fight is already over. `!zone status` for where you stand.")
 		}
 	}
 
@@ -68,26 +81,26 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleFightCmd(ctx MessageContext) error {
 		monster, ok = pickZoneEnemy(zone, run.RunID, run.CurrentRoom, true)
 	}
 	if !ok {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "_(No bestiary entry for this encounter — file a bug. `!zone abandon` to bail.)_")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "_(No bestiary entry for this encounter — file a bug. `!zone abandon` to bail.)_")
 	}
 
 	player, enemy, _, err := p.buildZoneCombatants(ctx.Sender, monster, int(zone.Tier), run.DMMood)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't set up the fight: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't set up the fight: "+err.Error())
 	}
 
 	playerHP, playerMax := dndHPSnapshot(ctx.Sender)
 	if playerHP <= 0 {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You're in no shape to fight. `!rest` first.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "You're in no shape to fight. `!rest` first.")
 	}
 	enemyHP := enemy.Stats.MaxHP
 
 	sess, err := startCombatSession(ctx.Sender, run.RunID, encID, monster.ID, playerHP, playerMax, enemyHP, enemyHP)
 	if err != nil {
 		if err == ErrCombatSessionAlreadyActive {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You're already in a fight. Finish it with `!attack` / `!flee`.")
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "You're already in a fight. Finish it with `!attack` / `!flee`.")
 		}
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't start the fight: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't start the fight: "+err.Error())
 	}
 
 	// Carry fight-start one-shot resources (Abjuration Arcane Ward, etc.) onto
@@ -118,7 +131,7 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleFightCmd(ctx MessageContext) error {
 	}
 	b.WriteString("\n")
 	b.WriteString(combatTurnPrompt(sess))
-	return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, b.String())
+	return p.replyDM(ctx, b.String())
 }
 
 // ── !attack / !flee ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
@@ -138,22 +151,22 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatActionCmd(ctx MessageContext, action Playe
 
 	sess, err := getActiveCombatSession(ctx.Sender)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
 	}
 	if sess == nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You're not in a fight. `!fight` at an Elite or Boss room to start one.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "You're not in a fight. `!fight` at an Elite or Boss room to start one.")
 	}
 
 	player, enemy, err := p.combatantsForSession(sess)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
 	}
 
 	events, err := runCombatRound(sess, &player, &enemy, action)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
 	}
-	return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
+	return p.replyDM(ctx, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
 }
 
 // renderRoundResult turns a resolved round into the player-facing block: the
@@ -393,35 +406,35 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatCastCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) e
 
 	sess, err := getActiveCombatSession(ctx.Sender)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
 	}
 	if sess == nil {
 		// Race: the fight closed between the route check and the lock.
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You're not in a fight anymore.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "You're not in a fight anymore.")
 	}
 
 	advChar, _ := loadAdvCharacter(ctx.Sender)
 	c, err := p.ensureCharForDnDCmd(ctx.Sender, advChar)
 	if err != nil || c == nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't load your Adv 2.0 sheet.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't load your Adv 2.0 sheet.")
 	}
 	if !isSpellcaster(c) {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf(
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf(
 			"%s isn't a caster class. `!attack` or `!consume <item>` instead.", titleClass(c.Class)))
 	}
 
 	spell, slotLevel, errMsg := parseCombatCast(ctx.Sender, c, strings.TrimSpace(args))
 	if errMsg != "" {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, errMsg)
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, errMsg)
 	}
 	if spell.Effect == EffectReaction {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf(
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf(
 			"%s is a reaction spell — those still aren't usable. Pick a damage, healing, or control spell.", spell.Name))
 	}
 
 	player, enemy, err := p.combatantsForSession(sess)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
 	}
 
 	var eff *turnActionEffect
@@ -433,11 +446,11 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatCastCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) e
 		applySpellBuff(spell, c, &as, &am, slotLevel)
 		d := diffTurnBuff(player.Stats, as, player.Mods, am)
 		if !d.any() {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf(
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf(
 				"%s has no effect the turn-based engine can apply yet.", spell.Name))
 		}
 		if msg := p.chargeSpellCost(ctx.Sender, spell, slotLevel); msg != "" {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, msg)
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, msg)
 		}
 		sess.Statuses.applyBuffDelta(d)
 		player, enemy, err = p.combatantsForSession(sess)
@@ -445,7 +458,7 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatCastCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) e
 			if spell.Level > 0 {
 				_ = refundSpellSlot(ctx.Sender, slotLevel)
 			}
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
 		}
 		label := spell.Name + " — active"
 		if d.heal > 0 {
@@ -458,11 +471,11 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatCastCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) e
 	} else {
 		out, supported := resolveTurnSpell(c, spell, slotLevel, &enemy.Stats)
 		if !supported {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf(
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf(
 				"%s is a utility spell — those aren't usable in turn-based fights yet. Try a damage, healing, control, or buff spell.", spell.Name))
 		}
 		if msg := p.chargeSpellCost(ctx.Sender, spell, slotLevel); msg != "" {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, msg)
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, msg)
 		}
 		eff = &turnActionEffect{
 			Label:       out.Desc,
@@ -478,9 +491,9 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleCombatCastCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) e
 		if spell.Level > 0 {
 			_ = refundSpellSlot(ctx.Sender, slotLevel)
 		}
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
 	}
-	return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
+	return p.replyDM(ctx, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
 }
 
 // chargeSpellCost debits a spell's material component and leveled slot for a
@@ -551,37 +564,37 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleConsumeCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) erro
 
 	sess, err := getActiveCombatSession(ctx.Sender)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't read combat state: "+err.Error())
 	}
 	if sess == nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "`!consume <item>` spends an item on your turn in an Elite or Boss fight. You're not in one — outside combat, consumables fire automatically.")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "`!consume <item>` spends an item on your turn in an Elite or Boss fight. You're not in one — outside combat, consumables fire automatically.")
 	}
 
 	inv := p.loadConsumableInventory(ctx.Sender)
 	args = strings.TrimSpace(args)
 	if args == "" {
 		if len(inv) == 0 {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "You have no combat consumables. `!attack` / `!cast` / `!flee`.")
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "You have no combat consumables. `!attack` / `!cast` / `!flee`.")
 		}
 		names := make([]string, len(inv))
 		for i, c := range inv {
 			names[i] = c.Def.Name
 		}
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Usage: `!consume <item>`. You're carrying: "+strings.Join(names, ", ")+".")
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Usage: `!consume <item>`. You're carrying: "+strings.Join(names, ", ")+".")
 	}
 
 	item, ambig := matchConsumable(inv, args)
 	if ambig != "" {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, ambig)
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, ambig)
 	}
 	if item == nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf("No consumable matching %q in your inventory.", args))
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf("No consumable matching %q in your inventory.", args))
 	}
 
 	def := item.Def
 	player, enemy, err := p.combatantsForSession(sess)
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
 	}
 
 	eff := &turnActionEffect{Action: "use_consumable"}
@@ -600,13 +613,13 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleConsumeCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) erro
 		ApplyConsumableMods(&as, &am, []ConsumableItem{{Def: def}})
 		d := diffTurnBuff(player.Stats, as, player.Mods, am)
 		if !d.any() {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, fmt.Sprintf(
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, fmt.Sprintf(
 				"**%s** has no effect the turn-based engine can apply yet.", def.Name))
 		}
 		sess.Statuses.applyBuffDelta(d)
 		player, enemy, err = p.combatantsForSession(sess)
 		if err != nil {
-			return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
+			return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't rebuild the fight: "+err.Error())
 		}
 		eff.Label = def.Name + " — active"
 		eff.PlayerHeal = d.heal
@@ -615,7 +628,7 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleConsumeCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) erro
 
 	events, err := runCombatRound(sess, &player, &enemy, PlayerAction{Kind: ActionConsume, Effect: eff})
 	if err != nil {
-		return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
+		return p.replyDM(ctx, "Couldn't resolve the round: "+err.Error())
 	}
 	// Round resolved and persisted — now burn the item. A removal failure here
 	// leaves the player a free use (logged, rare); better than charging them
@@ -623,5 +636,5 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) handleConsumeCmd(ctx MessageContext, args string) erro
 	if rerr := removeAdvInventoryItem(item.InventoryID); rerr != nil {
 		slog.Error("combat: consume remove inventory item failed", "user", ctx.Sender, "item", def.Name, "err", rerr)
 	}
-	return p.SendDM(ctx.Sender, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
+	return p.replyDM(ctx, p.renderRoundResult(ctx.Sender, sess, events, player.Name, enemy))
 }

internal/plugin/dnd.go

@@ -161,6 +161,20 @@ func abilityModifier(score int) int {
 // startup to refresh stale rows.
 const phase5BHPMult = 1.5
 
+// casterHPMult is the J3 D8-d-fix caster durability lift. T4 sim showed
+// caster HPMax sat ~30% below martial (~95 vs 141 at L10) and the AC-floor
+// lift alone wasn't enough to crack the wall. Applied multiplicatively in
+// computeMaxHP on top of phase5BHPMult so the existing Phase 5-B floor
+// stays intact for martials. Refreshed for existing rows by
+// bootstrapCasterHPRefresh (job key caster_hp_refresh_v1).
+func casterHPMult(class DnDClass) float64 {
+	switch class {
+	case ClassCleric, ClassDruid, ClassBard, ClassWarlock, ClassMage, ClassSorcerer:
+		return 1.25
+	}
+	return 1.0
+}
+
 // computeMaxHP — D&D5e style. L1: full HP die + CON mod (min 1).
 // Per level after: average HP die (roundup of die/2 + 1) + CON mod.
 // The result is scaled by phase5BHPMult — see that constant for the
@@ -181,8 +195,8 @@ func computeMaxHP(class DnDClass, conMod, level int) int {
 		}
 		hp += gain
 	}
-	// Phase 5-B player power floor — round to nearest int.
-	scaled := int(float64(hp)*phase5BHPMult + 0.5)
+	// Phase 5-B player power floor + J3 D8-d-fix caster lift — round to nearest int.
+	scaled := int(float64(hp)*phase5BHPMult*casterHPMult(class) + 0.5)
 	if scaled < 1 {
 		scaled = 1
 	}
@@ -197,10 +211,16 @@ func computeAC(class DnDClass, dexMod int) int {
 	switch class {
 	case ClassFighter, ClassPaladin:
 		floor = 6 // heavy/medium-armor baseline
-	case ClassCleric, ClassRanger, ClassDruid:
+	case ClassCleric, ClassDruid:
+		floor = 5
+	case ClassRanger:
 		floor = 3
-	case ClassRogue, ClassBard, ClassWarlock:
+	case ClassBard, ClassWarlock:
+		floor = 3
+	case ClassRogue:
 		floor = 1
+	case ClassMage, ClassSorcerer:
+		floor = 2
 	}
 	return 10 + dexMod + floor
 }

internal/plugin/dnd_bestiary.go

@@ -256,7 +256,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"green_hag": {
 			ID: "green_hag", Name: "Green Hag",
-			CR: 3, HP: 82, AC: 17, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 3, HP: 105, AC: 18, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.15,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Invisible Passage", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.35, Effect: "evade"},
 			XPValue:   700,
@@ -463,7 +463,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"drow_elite_warrior": {
 			ID: "drow_elite_warrior", Name: "Drow Elite Warrior",
-			CR: 5, HP: 71, AC: 18, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 5, HP: 95, AC: 19, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.20,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Parry", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.35, Effect: "block"},
 			XPValue:   1800,
@@ -471,23 +471,23 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"drow_mage": {
 			ID: "drow_mage", Name: "Drow Mage",
-			CR: 7, HP: 45, AC: 12, Attack: 12, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 7, HP: 65, AC: 12, Attack: 12, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.05,
-			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Lightning Bolt", Phase: "decisive", ProcChance: 0.45, Effect: "aoe"},
+			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Lightning Bolt", Phase: "decisive", ProcChance: 0.25, Effect: "aoe"},
 			XPValue:   2900,
 			Notes:     "Spells: Lightning Bolt, Fly, Darkness, Faerie Fire. Magic Resistance.",
 		},
 		"mind_flayer": {
 			ID: "mind_flayer", Name: "Mind Flayer",
-			CR: 7, HP: 71, AC: 15, Attack: 12, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 7, HP: 90, AC: 15, Attack: 12, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.10,
-			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Mind Blast", Phase: "opening", ProcChance: 0.55, Effect: "stun"},
+			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Mind Blast", Phase: "opening", ProcChance: 0.30, Effect: "stun"},
 			XPValue:   2900,
 			Notes:     "Mind Blast AoE psychic INT DC 15 or Stunned; Extract Brain instakills stunned; telepathy.",
 		},
 		"hook_horror": {
 			ID: "hook_horror", Name: "Hook Horror",
-			CR: 3, HP: 75, AC: 15, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 6, Speed: 10,
+			CR: 3, HP: 95, AC: 16, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 6, Speed: 10,
 			BlockRate: 0.10,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Pack Tactics", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.30, Effect: "advantage"},
 			XPValue:   700,
@@ -495,15 +495,15 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"roper": {
 			ID: "roper", Name: "Roper",
-			CR: 5, HP: 93, AC: 20, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 4,
+			CR: 5, HP: 115, AC: 20, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 4,
 			BlockRate: 0.20,
-			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Reel", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.50, Effect: "stun"},
+			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Reel", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.30, Effect: "stun"},
 			XPValue:   1800,
 			Notes:     "Elite. 6 tendrils grapple+restrain; Reel pulls 25 ft; False Appearance.",
 		},
 		"boss_ilvaras_xunyl": {
 			ID: "boss_ilvaras_xunyl", Name: "Ilvaras Xunyl, Drow High Priestess",
-			CR: 12, HP: 162, AC: 16, Attack: 19, AttackBonus: 9, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 12, HP: 210, AC: 18, Attack: 19, AttackBonus: 9, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.15,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Divine Word", Phase: "decisive", ProcChance: 0.40, Effect: "execute"},
 			XPValue:   8400,
@@ -512,7 +512,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		// ── Feywild Crossing ─────────────────────────────────────────────
 		"redcap": {
 			ID: "redcap", Name: "Redcap",
-			CR: 3, HP: 45, AC: 13, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 6, Speed: 14,
+			CR: 3, HP: 60, AC: 15, Attack: 6, AttackBonus: 6, Speed: 14,
 			BlockRate: 0.10,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Outsize Strength", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.40, Effect: "bonus_damage"},
 			XPValue:   700,
@@ -520,7 +520,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"will_o_wisp": {
 			ID: "will_o_wisp", Name: "Will-o'-Wisp",
-			CR: 2, HP: 22, AC: 19, Attack: 4, AttackBonus: 4, Speed: 14,
+			CR: 2, HP: 30, AC: 19, Attack: 4, AttackBonus: 4, Speed: 14,
 			BlockRate: 0.0,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Consume Life", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.40, Effect: "lifesteal"},
 			XPValue:   450,
@@ -528,7 +528,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"quickling": {
 			ID: "quickling", Name: "Quickling",
-			CR: 1, HP: 10, AC: 16, Attack: 2, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 18,
+			CR: 1, HP: 16, AC: 16, Attack: 2, AttackBonus: 5, Speed: 18,
 			BlockRate: 0.05,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Blur", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.50, Effect: "evade"},
 			XPValue:   200,
@@ -536,7 +536,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"night_hag": {
 			ID: "night_hag", Name: "Night Hag",
-			CR: 5, HP: 112, AC: 17, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 5, HP: 135, AC: 18, Attack: 8, AttackBonus: 7, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.15,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Etherealness", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.30, Effect: "evade"},
 			XPValue:   1800,
@@ -544,7 +544,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"fomorian": {
 			ID: "fomorian", Name: "Fomorian",
-			CR: 8, HP: 149, AC: 14, Attack: 13, AttackBonus: 9, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 8, HP: 180, AC: 16, Attack: 13, AttackBonus: 9, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.10,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Evil Eye", Phase: "any", ProcChance: 0.45, Effect: "stun"},
 			XPValue:   3900,
@@ -552,7 +552,7 @@ var _ = func() bool {
 		},
 		"boss_thornmother": {
 			ID: "boss_thornmother", Name: "The Thornmother",
-			CR: 11, HP: 187, AC: 17, Attack: 18, AttackBonus: 8, Speed: 12,
+			CR: 11, HP: 235, AC: 18, Attack: 18, AttackBonus: 8, Speed: 12,
 			BlockRate: 0.15,
 			Ability:   &MonsterAbility{Name: "Beguiling Bargain", Phase: "opening", ProcChance: 0.50, Effect: "stun"},
 			XPValue:   7200,

internal/plugin/dnd_test.go

@@ -70,10 +70,10 @@ func TestComputeMaxHP_MageLevel5(t *testing.T) {
 	// Mage d6, CON +1
 	// L1: 6 + 1 = 7
 	// L2-5: 4 levels × (avg 4 + 1) = 4 × 5 = 20
-	// Raw total: 27; Phase 5-B: 27 × 1.5 = 40.5 → 41 (round half-up).
+	// Raw total: 27; Phase 5-B × casterHPMult: 27 × 1.5 × 1.25 = 50.625 → 51.
 	got := computeMaxHP(ClassMage, 1, 5)
-	if got != 41 {
-		t.Errorf("Mage L5 (CON+1) = %d, want 41 (27 raw × phase5BHPMult)", got)
+	if got != 51 {
+		t.Errorf("Mage L5 (CON+1) = %d, want 51 (27 raw × phase5BHPMult × casterHPMult)", got)
 	}
 }
 
@@ -94,8 +94,12 @@ func TestComputeAC(t *testing.T) {
 		{ClassFighter, 0, 16},  // 10 + 0 + 6
 		{ClassFighter, 2, 18},  // 10 + 2 + 6
 		{ClassRogue, 3, 14},    // 10 + 3 + 1
-		{ClassMage, 0, 10},     // 10 + 0 + 0
-		{ClassCleric, 1, 14},   // 10 + 1 + 3
+		{ClassMage, 0, 12},     // 10 + 0 + 2 (D8-d-fix caster floor)
+		{ClassSorcerer, 1, 13}, // 10 + 1 + 2
+		{ClassCleric, 1, 16},   // 10 + 1 + 5 (D8-d-fix caster floor)
+		{ClassDruid, 0, 15},    // 10 + 0 + 5
+		{ClassBard, 2, 15},     // 10 + 2 + 3 (D8-d-fix caster floor)
+		{ClassWarlock, 0, 13},  // 10 + 0 + 3
 		{ClassRanger, 2, 15},   // 10 + 2 + 3
 	}
 	for _, c := range cases {

internal/plugin/dnd_zone_cmd.go

@@ -380,16 +380,16 @@ func roomGlyph(rt RoomType) string {
 type stopReason int
 
 const (
-	stopOK       stopReason = iota // walked to next room; loop may continue
-	stopFork                       // advanceTransitionGraph returned a forkMsg
-	stopElite                      // standing at an Elite doorway; needs !fight
-	stopBoss                       // standing at a Boss doorway; needs !fight
-	stopEnded                      // patrol or room resolution killed the player
-	stopComplete                   // run cleared (boss down, no outgoing edges)
-	stopBlocked                    // an active CombatSession blocks the advance
-	stopHarvestCombat              // auto-harvest pulled into combat that resolved short of death
-	stopPreflight                  // pre-iteration preflight tripped (low HP / low SU)
-	stopBossSafety                 // compact autopilot bailed before boss (HP/SU/exhaustion gate) — caller pitches a rest camp
+	stopOK            stopReason = iota // walked to next room; loop may continue
+	stopFork                            // advanceTransitionGraph returned a forkMsg
+	stopElite                           // standing at an Elite doorway; needs !fight
+	stopBoss                            // standing at a Boss doorway; needs !fight
+	stopEnded                           // patrol or room resolution killed the player
+	stopComplete                        // run cleared (boss down, no outgoing edges)
+	stopBlocked                         // an active CombatSession blocks the advance
+	stopHarvestCombat                   // auto-harvest pulled into combat that resolved short of death
+	stopPreflight                       // pre-iteration preflight tripped (low HP / low SU)
+	stopBossSafety                      // compact autopilot bailed before boss (HP/SU/exhaustion gate) — caller pitches a rest camp
 )
 
 // bossSafetyHPPct — compact-autopilot won't engage a boss while current HP
@@ -477,11 +477,13 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) advanceOnce(ctx MessageContext) (advanceResult, error)
 
 // inlineBossCombat (only consulted when compact==true) selects between the
 // two background combat paths at a boss/elite doorway. true keeps the
-// long-expedition D3 inline auto-resolve (production autorun). false
-// returns stopBoss/stopElite after the safety gate so a turn-based driver
-// — currently only the headless sim's autoResolveCombat / simPickCombatAction
-// — handles the fight via the regular !fight / !attack engine. The sim
-// uses false so simPickSpell actually fires; D8-prereq re-wired this seam.
+// legacy inline auto-resolve (SimulateCombat — fast, but ignores enemy
+// multiattack). false returns stopBoss/stopElite after the safety gate so
+// a turn-based driver — autoDriveCombat / pickAutoCombatAction — handles
+// the fight via the regular !fight / !attack engine. Both the headless sim
+// and the production autorun (long-expedition D8-f) now pass false so the
+// real engine (with multiattack) resolves the encounter and simPickSpell
+// actually fires; D8-prereq re-wired this seam, D8-f flipped prod onto it.
 func (p *AdventurePlugin) advanceOnceWithOpts(ctx MessageContext, compact, inlineBossCombat bool) (advanceResult, error) {
 	run, err := getActiveZoneRun(ctx.Sender)
 	if err != nil {
@@ -568,10 +570,10 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) advanceOnceWithOpts(ctx MessageContext, compact, inlin
 				}
 			}
 			if !inlineBossCombat {
-				// Background caller wants to drive the fight itself (sim's
-				// autoResolveCombat / simPickCombatAction). Surface the
-				// doorway like the foreground path does, after the safety
-				// gate has had a chance to defer the engagement.
+				// Background caller wants to drive the fight itself via the
+				// turn engine (autoDriveCombat / pickAutoCombatAction).
+				// Surface the doorway like the foreground path does, after
+				// the safety gate has had a chance to defer the engagement.
 				kind := "Elite"
 				r := stopElite
 				if prev == RoomBoss {
@@ -953,6 +955,7 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) resolveRoom(userID id.UserID, run *DungeonRun, zone Zo
 // resolveCombatRoom spawns one roster enemy (elite filter optional),
 // runs combat, persists side effects, fires nat-1/nat-20 mood deltas,
 // and renders the staged narration. Returns:
+//
 //   intro   — pre-combat block (TwinBee combat-start + monster stat block)
 //   phases  — RenderCombatLog output, streamed with delays by the caller
 //   outcome — post-combat block: nat20/nat1 flavor, kill line, loot, d20 summary
@@ -1139,7 +1142,7 @@ type BossOutcomeInputs struct {
 	Result               CombatResult
 	PreHP, PostHP, MaxHP int
 	PhaseTwoAt           float64 // fraction of MaxHP; 0 disables phase-two narration
-	Nat20s, Nat1s        int // pre-counted by scanMoodEventsFromCombat
+	Nat20s, Nat1s        int     // pre-counted by scanMoodEventsFromCombat
 
 	// Caller-supplied headlines so arena and zone read in their own voice.
 	// DefeatHeadline is the full sentence shown after the PlayerDeath
@@ -1287,4 +1290,3 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) zoneCmdAbandon(ctx MessageContext) error {
 		"🚪 Abandoned **%s** at room %d/%d. No rewards.",
 		zone.Display, run.CurrentRoom+1, run.TotalRooms))
 }
-

internal/plugin/expedition_autorun.go

@@ -138,6 +138,84 @@ func loadExpeditionsForAutoRun(runCutoff, ageCutoff time.Time) ([]string, error)
 	return ids, rows.Err()
 }
 
+// autoRunCombatSegmentCap bounds the walk→fight→walk ping-pong inside a
+// single background tick. With autoRunRoomCap == 3 rooms/tick the loop
+// can realistically only hit a couple doorways; the cap is a backstop
+// against a pathological state where a fight wins but the next walk
+// re-presents the same doorway.
+const autoRunCombatSegmentCap = 8
+
+// runAutopilotWalkDriven runs the compact background walk and, when it
+// halts at a boss/elite doorway, drives that fight through the real turn
+// engine (manual `!fight` parity — long-expedition D8-f) before resuming
+// the walk. It loops walk→fight→walk so one tick still covers up to
+// maxRooms rooms, exactly as the old inline-boss path did, but bosses now
+// face the player's full kit against the enemy's full multiattack profile
+// instead of the rosier inline SimulateCombat path.
+//
+// Combat narration is suppressed via a silent ctx — the day digest
+// summarizes the outcome, matching the rest of the compact autopilot
+// surface. The returned result carries the cumulative room count and the
+// reason of whichever non-combat stop ended the loop.
+func (p *AdventurePlugin) runAutopilotWalkDriven(ctx MessageContext, maxRooms int) autopilotWalkResult {
+	silent := ctx
+	silent.Silent = true
+	total := 0
+	for seg := 0; seg < autoRunCombatSegmentCap; seg++ {
+		budget := maxRooms - total
+		if budget <= 0 {
+			return autopilotWalkResult{rooms: total, reason: stopOK, finalMsg: autopilotFooter(stopOK, total)}
+		}
+		r := p.runAutopilotWalk(ctx, budget, true, false)
+		if r.initErr != "" {
+			return r
+		}
+		total += r.rooms
+		r.rooms = total
+		if r.reason != stopBoss && r.reason != stopElite {
+			return r
+		}
+		// Standing at an elite/boss doorway — drive the fight on the turn
+		// engine. handleFightCmd opens the session at the current doorway;
+		// autoDriveCombat loops until it resolves.
+		won, err := p.autoDriveCombat(silent)
+		if err != nil {
+			slog.Warn("expedition: autopilot turn-engine combat", "user", ctx.Sender, "err", err)
+			// Leave the doorway stop in place; the next tick retries the
+			// engagement after the cooldown.
+			return r
+		}
+		if won {
+			// The won session is recorded; the next walk advances the now-
+			// cleared room (a boss win surfaces as stopComplete, an elite as
+			// a normal continue). Loop.
+			continue
+		}
+		// Lost: the turn engine never voluntarily flees, so a non-win means
+		// the party fell. finishCombatSession (CombatStatusLost) already
+		// abandoned the run and force-extracted the expedition; surface it
+		// as a death so the digest + pet-emergence seam fire.
+		if c, _ := LoadDnDCharacter(ctx.Sender); c == nil || c.HPCurrent <= 0 {
+			r.reason = stopEnded
+			r.finalMsg = fmt.Sprintf("💀 The party fell in battle after %s. The expedition is over.", roomsWalkedPhrase(total))
+			return r
+		}
+		// Alive but the session didn't open / resolve to a win (rare —
+		// bestiary miss or stall). Leave the doorway stop; retry next tick.
+		return r
+	}
+	// Segment cap hit — stop cleanly rather than spin.
+	return autopilotWalkResult{rooms: total, reason: stopOK, finalMsg: autopilotFooter(stopOK, total)}
+}
+
+// roomsWalkedPhrase renders "N room(s)" for autopilot footers.
+func roomsWalkedPhrase(rooms int) string {
+	if rooms == 1 {
+		return "1 room"
+	}
+	return fmt.Sprintf("%d rooms", rooms)
+}
+
 // tryAutoRun claims the slot for this expedition, runs one background
 // walk, and DMs the result if the suppression rules say to. The CAS-
 // update is the only persistent side effect on the autorun column —
@@ -170,7 +248,10 @@ func (p *AdventurePlugin) tryAutoRun(e *Expedition, now time.Time) error {
 	}
 
 	uid := id.UserID(e.UserID)
-	r := p.runAutopilotWalk(MessageContext{Sender: uid}, autoRunRoomCap, true, true)
+	// D8-f — boss/elite encounters route through the real turn engine for
+	// manual `!fight` parity (enemy multiattack included). Trash mobs still
+	// auto-resolve on the fast inline path inside the walk.
+	r := p.runAutopilotWalkDriven(MessageContext{Sender: uid}, autoRunRoomCap)
 	if r.initErr != "" {
 		// "no expedition" / "no run" — race with abandon/extract. Silent.
 		return nil

internal/plugin/expedition_sim.go

@@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ package plugin
 import (
 	"encoding/json"
 	"fmt"
+	"os"
 	"sort"
 	"time"
 
@@ -22,6 +23,12 @@ import (
 	"maunium.net/go/mautrix/id"
 )
 
+// simInlineBossCombat is a D8-e DIAGNOSTIC toggle. When GOGOBEE_SIM_INLINE_BOSS=1
+// the sim routes boss/elite doorways through the inline SimulateCombat path
+// (production autopilot behavior) instead of the turn-based !fight engine.
+// Used to A/B the martial T4/T5 regression. NOT for production.
+func simInlineBossCombat() bool { return os.Getenv("GOGOBEE_SIM_INLINE_BOSS") == "1" }
+
 // SimRunner owns a temp-DB AdventurePlugin + EuroPlugin pair and exposes
 // just enough surface to drive synthetic players end-to-end.
 type SimRunner struct {
@@ -116,7 +123,7 @@ func (s *SimRunner) BuildCharacter(uid id.UserID, class DnDClass, level int) (*D
 // stockSimConsumables drops a small tier-appropriate bundle of potions
 // + a couple offensive items into the synthetic player's inventory so
 // SelectConsumables / setupAutoHealFromInventory have something to fire
-// during autoResolveCombat. Counts are deliberately modest — a real
+// during autoDriveCombat. Counts are deliberately modest — a real
 // L7+ player typically carries 3-6 heals plus a couple of buffs; we
 // mirror that band rather than max-stocking, which would mask class
 // power gaps.
@@ -274,8 +281,8 @@ type SimResult struct {
 	// resource). YieldsByName breaks that total down by resource name
 	// for tier/per-resource calibration. Both are read from
 	// adventure_inventory at end-of-run.
-	YieldCount    int
-	YieldsByName  map[string]int
+	YieldCount   int
+	YieldsByName map[string]int
 	// Combats holds a per-combat trace for every fight the synthetic
 	// player entered during the expedition (boss + elites + patrols).
 	// Used by post-hoc analysis to dig into class-survival walls
@@ -429,7 +436,7 @@ func (s *SimRunner) RunExpedition(uid id.UserID, zoneID ZoneID, walkCap, maxDays
 
 	for i := 0; i < walkCap; i++ {
 		simNow = simNow.Add(simWalkInterval)
-		walk := s.P.runAutopilotWalk(ctx, autopilotRoomCap, true, false)
+		walk := s.P.runAutopilotWalk(ctx, autopilotRoomCap, true, simInlineBossCombat())
 		if walk.initErr != "" {
 			res.Outcome = "halted"
 			res.StopCode = "init:" + walk.initErr
@@ -473,7 +480,7 @@ func (s *SimRunner) RunExpedition(uid id.UserID, zoneID ZoneID, walkCap, maxDays
 		case stopBoss, stopElite:
 			// Auto-resolve the encounter: !fight to open, then !attack
 			// per round until the session resolves (won / lost / fled).
-			killed, err := s.autoResolveCombat(ctx)
+			killed, err := s.P.autoDriveCombat(ctx)
 			if err != nil {
 				res.Outcome = "halted"
 				res.StopCode = "combat:" + err.Error()
@@ -499,9 +506,22 @@ func (s *SimRunner) RunExpedition(uid id.UserID, zoneID ZoneID, walkCap, maxDays
 			// Boss kill closes the run via combat resolution → continue
 			// the loop so the next walk picks up the cleared-run state.
 		case stopFork:
-			// Deterministic sim policy: always take path 1. Real players
-			// pick based on intent; the sim just needs to make progress.
-			if err := s.P.handleDnDExpeditionCmd(ctx, "go 1"); err != nil {
+			// Deterministic sim policy: take the first UNLOCKED path. The
+			// old blind "go 1" stalled forever on all-skill-check forks
+			// (feywild fork1) — resolveForkChoice rejects a locked edge but
+			// zoneCmdGo swallows it as a sent-DM with a nil return, so the
+			// run never advanced and burned every walk at the same node. A
+			// real player reads the menu and picks a passable path; mirror
+			// that. choice==0 means every edge is locked (a graph soft-lock
+			// the author must fix) — halt loudly rather than spin.
+			choice := s.firstUnlockedForkChoice(ctx.Sender)
+			if choice == 0 {
+				res.Outcome = "halted"
+				res.StopCode = "fork_all_locked"
+				i = walkCap
+				break
+			}
+			if err := s.P.handleDnDExpeditionCmd(ctx, fmt.Sprintf("go %d", choice)); err != nil {
 				res.Outcome = "halted"
 				res.StopCode = "fork:" + err.Error()
 				i = walkCap
@@ -619,6 +639,26 @@ func (s *SimRunner) RunExpedition(uid id.UserID, zoneID ZoneID, walkCap, maxDays
 	return res, nil
 }
 
+// firstUnlockedForkChoice returns the 1-based index of the first
+// traversable option at the pending fork, or 0 if every edge is locked
+// (a graph soft-lock — see feywild fork1, which had no LockNone exit).
+func (s *SimRunner) firstUnlockedForkChoice(uid id.UserID) int {
+	run, err := getActiveZoneRun(uid)
+	if err != nil || run == nil {
+		return 1
+	}
+	pf, err := decodePendingFork(run.NodeChoices)
+	if err != nil || pf == nil {
+		return 1
+	}
+	for _, o := range pf.Options {
+		if o.Unlocked {
+			return o.Index
+		}
+	}
+	return 0
+}
+
 // captureDaySnapshot appends a SimDaySnapshot reflecting current state.
 // HP is read from the live character row; SU/threat/day from the live
 // expedition. Rooms is the running res.Rooms counter.
@@ -735,16 +775,24 @@ func simMaterialYields(uid id.UserID) (int, map[string]int) {
 	return total, out
 }
 
-// autoResolveCombat dispatches !fight at the current elite/boss gate,
-// then loops !attack until the combat session resolves. Returns true
-// when the player won (enemy dead, room cleared), false when the
-// player lost or fled. autoCombatRoundCap is a safety cap against
+// autoDriveCombat dispatches !fight at the current elite/boss gate,
+// then loops !attack/!cast/!consume until the combat session resolves.
+// Returns true when the player won (enemy dead, room cleared), false when
+// the player lost or fled. autoCombatRoundCap is a safety cap against
 // pathological stalemates (shouldn't trigger in practice — combat is
 // strictly monotone in HP).
+//
+// Shared by the headless sim and the production background autopilot
+// (long-expedition D8-f): a silent ctx (ctx.Silent) suppresses the
+// per-round DM narration so the autorun digest can summarize the fight
+// without spamming the player a message per round. Driving the real
+// !fight/!attack engine here is what gives autopilot bosses true parity
+// with manual `!fight` — including enemy multiattack, which the old
+// inline SimulateCombat path ignored.
 const autoCombatRoundCap = 200
 
-func (s *SimRunner) autoResolveCombat(ctx MessageContext) (bool, error) {
-	if err := s.P.handleFightCmd(ctx); err != nil {
+func (p *AdventurePlugin) autoDriveCombat(ctx MessageContext) (bool, error) {
+	if err := p.handleFightCmd(ctx); err != nil {
 		return false, fmt.Errorf("fight: %w", err)
 	}
 	sess, err := getActiveCombatSession(ctx.Sender)
@@ -772,15 +820,15 @@ func (s *SimRunner) autoResolveCombat(ctx MessageContext) (bool, error) {
 		case CombatStatusLost, CombatStatusFled:
 			return false, nil
 		}
-		kind, arg := s.simPickCombatAction(ctx.Sender, cur)
+		kind, arg := p.pickAutoCombatAction(ctx.Sender, cur)
 		var dispatchErr error
 		switch kind {
 		case "consume":
-			dispatchErr = s.P.handleConsumeCmd(ctx, arg)
+			dispatchErr = p.handleConsumeCmd(ctx, arg)
 		case "cast":
-			dispatchErr = s.P.handleCombatCastCmd(ctx, arg)
+			dispatchErr = p.handleCombatCastCmd(ctx, arg)
 		default:
-			dispatchErr = s.P.handleAttackCmd(ctx)
+			dispatchErr = p.handleAttackCmd(ctx)
 		}
 		if dispatchErr != nil {
 			return false, fmt.Errorf("%s iter %d: %w", kind, i, dispatchErr)
@@ -828,7 +876,7 @@ func (s *SimRunner) maybeShortRest(ctx MessageContext, uid id.UserID) {
 // one more big hit, not so early that a 1-HP scratch burns a potion.
 const simHealHPThresholdPct = 40
 
-// simPickCombatAction is the sim's per-turn decision tree, mirroring
+// pickAutoCombatAction is the per-turn decision tree, mirroring
 // what a competent prod player would type:
 //
 //  1. If HP is below simHealHPThresholdPct and the inventory has a heal
@@ -847,14 +895,14 @@ const simHealHPThresholdPct = 40
 //
 // Pre-J2a the sim looped !attack only, which underweighted every caster
 // class — see sim_results/j2_findings.md for the trace evidence.
-func (s *SimRunner) simPickCombatAction(uid id.UserID, sess *CombatSession) (kind, arg string) {
+func (p *AdventurePlugin) pickAutoCombatAction(uid id.UserID, sess *CombatSession) (kind, arg string) {
 	c, _ := LoadDnDCharacter(uid)
 	if c == nil || sess == nil {
 		return "attack", ""
 	}
 	lowHP := sess.PlayerHPMax > 0 && sess.PlayerHP*100 < sess.PlayerHPMax*simHealHPThresholdPct
 	if lowHP {
-		inv := s.P.loadConsumableInventory(uid)
+		inv := p.loadConsumableInventory(uid)
 		for _, it := range inv {
 			if it.Def.Effect == EffectHeal {
 				return "consume", it.Def.Name

internal/plugin/plugin.go

@@ -41,6 +41,13 @@ type MessageContext struct {
 	// routes DM commands to the player's game room). When set, sender-private
 	// replies should go here instead of the rewritten RoomID.
 	OriginRoomID id.RoomID
+	// Silent suppresses player-facing replies for handlers that honor it
+	// (currently the turn-engine combat commands via replyDM). Set by the
+	// background autopilot when it drives a boss/elite fight through the
+	// real !fight/!attack engine for manual parity (long-expedition D8-f) —
+	// the day digest summarizes the outcome, so the per-round narration is
+	// dropped rather than DM'd round-by-round.
+	Silent bool
 }
 
 // ReactionContext holds the context for a reaction event.

internal/plugin/zone_graph_feywild_crossing.go

@@ -23,9 +23,9 @@ package plugin
 //     cursed_thicket (TRAP) → revel_road → moonshadow_bridge →
 //     bargain_walk → fey_market → fork1
 //
-//   Fork1 → both options locked (CHA vs Perception, no free choice):
+//   Fork1 → marsh (free default) | grove (CHA DC 14 bonus — the bargain):
 //
-//   Grove approach (8 nodes, CHA DC 14):
+//   Grove approach (8 nodes, CHA DC 14 bonus):
 //     grove_threshold → starlight_path → singing_orchard → mirror_pond
 //     → prismatic_arbor → moonpetal_clearing → dawnglow_walk →
 //     glamoured_grove (fork2a)
@@ -203,13 +203,19 @@ func zoneFeywildCrossingGraph() ZoneGraph {
 		{From: "feywild_crossing.bargain_walk", To: "feywild_crossing.fey_market", Lock: LockNone},
 		{From: "feywild_crossing.fey_market", To: "feywild_crossing.fork1", Lock: LockNone},
 
-		// Fork1 — both options locked (CHA vs. Perception, no LockNone).
+		// Fork1 — marsh is the free default path; grove is a CHA-gated
+		// bonus route (the fey bargain). (Both were skill-locked originally,
+		// with no LockNone exit — a soft-lock: any character failing both
+		// the CHA and Perception checks was permanently stranded here, since
+		// fork rolls are deterministic with no retry. Every other zone fork
+		// has a free path; freeing marsh restores that invariant while
+		// keeping the signature CHA fey-bargain route as a bonus.)
 		{From: "feywild_crossing.fork1", To: "feywild_crossing.grove_threshold",
 			Lock: LockStatCheck, LockData: map[string]any{"stat": "CHA", "dc": 14},
 			Hint: "a starlight creature offering a deal — you'd have to play along", Weight: 1},
 		{From: "feywild_crossing.fork1", To: "feywild_crossing.marsh_threshold",
-			Lock: LockPerception, LockData: map[string]any{"dc": 14},
-			Hint: "wisp-light flickering between two trees — they look like the same tree", Weight: 1},
+			Lock: LockNone,
+			Hint: "wisp-light flickering between two trees — pick your way through", Weight: 1},
 
 		// Grove approach.
 		{From: "feywild_crossing.grove_threshold", To: "feywild_crossing.starlight_path", Lock: LockNone},

internal/plugin/zone_graph_feywild_crossing_test.go

@@ -55,16 +55,23 @@ func TestFeywildCrossingGraph_PartialOverlap(t *testing.T) {
 	}
 }
 
-// TestFeywildCrossingGraph_NoFreeChoiceAtFork1 captures the design
-// intent: both fork1 outgoing edges are locked. The player must succeed
-// at CHA or Perception to enter; no LockNone fallback.
-func TestFeywildCrossingGraph_NoFreeChoiceAtFork1(t *testing.T) {
+// TestFeywildCrossingGraph_Fork1HasFreePath guards the no-soft-lock
+// invariant: fork1 must offer at least one LockNone exit. The original
+// design locked BOTH edges (CHA + Perception) with no fallback — fork
+// rolls are deterministic with no retry, so a character failing both was
+// permanently stranded (D8-f part 2 found this stranded ~60% of runs).
+// Every other zone fork has a free path; fork1 must too.
+func TestFeywildCrossingGraph_Fork1HasFreePath(t *testing.T) {
 	g := zoneFeywildCrossingGraph()
+	free := 0
 	for _, e := range g.outgoingEdges("feywild_crossing.fork1") {
-		if e.Lock == LockNone {
-			t.Errorf("fork1 has unlocked edge to %s — expected all locked", e.To)
+		if e.Lock == LockNone || e.Lock == "" {
+			free++
 		}
 	}
+	if free == 0 {
+		t.Error("fork1 has no free (LockNone) exit — soft-lock: a player failing every skill check is permanently stranded")
+	}
 }
 
 // TestFeywildCrossingGraph_FirstCHALock confirms this zone uses

internal/plugin/zone_graph_test.go

@@ -190,6 +190,40 @@ func TestCompileLegacyZoneGraph_AllRegistered(t *testing.T) {
 	}
 }
 
+// TestZoneGraphs_NoSoftLockedFork guards the invariant that every fork
+// node offers at least one traversable (LockNone) exit. A fork whose
+// every edge is skill-locked strands any player who fails all the checks
+// — fork rolls are deterministic with no retry. D8-f part 2 found
+// feywild fork1 violating this (it stranded ~60% of runs). Catch any
+// future author who locks every exit of a fork.
+func TestZoneGraphs_NoSoftLockedFork(t *testing.T) {
+	for _, z := range allZones() {
+		g, ok := loadZoneGraph(z.ID)
+		if !ok {
+			continue
+		}
+		for nodeID, node := range g.Nodes {
+			if node.Kind != NodeKindFork {
+				continue
+			}
+			outs := g.outgoingEdges(nodeID)
+			if len(outs) == 0 {
+				continue
+			}
+			free := false
+			for _, e := range outs {
+				if e.Lock == LockNone || e.Lock == "" {
+					free = true
+					break
+				}
+			}
+			if !free {
+				t.Errorf("zone %q fork %q: every exit is locked — soft-lock (a player failing all checks is stranded; add a LockNone fallback)", z.ID, nodeID)
+			}
+		}
+	}
+}
+
 func TestDeriveLegacyNodeID_StableShape(t *testing.T) {
 	got := deriveLegacyNodeID("crypt_valdris", 0)
 	want := "crypt_valdris.r1"