How to Read This Book
There are three reading paths.
The Linear Path. If you have not yet decided to build an agent farm, read straight through. Part I gives you the conceptual scaffolding; Part II the component vocabulary; Part III the vendor map; Part IV the decision lenses; Part V the worked example. Estimated reading time: three to four hours.
The Decision Path. If you have already decided to build and just need the framework call, skip Part I, skim §2.1, read Part III for the candidates on your shortlist, then jump to Part IV (decision frameworks) and Part V (the Hestiia recommendation as a worked template). Ninety minutes.
The Audit Path. If you have a stack already and want to pressure-test it, read Part IV — especially the disaster catalog and early-warning signs — and Appendix A (vendor pricing index). Use the disaster scenarios as a quarterly audit. Thirty minutes.