diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract.go
index 61e93a98..bec6846f 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract.go
@@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ const (
 	VerbCurrent = "current"
 	VerbPause   = "pause"
 	VerbResume  = "resume"
+	VerbDrop    = "drop"
 )
 
 const (
@@ -28,7 +29,7 @@ const (
 
 // Verbs is every verb the seat serves, in its definition's order: a new copy each call.
 func Verbs() []string {
-	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume}
+	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume, VerbDrop}
 }
 
 // AcceptSubjectDelivery is where delivery is sent.
@@ -117,6 +118,41 @@ func DecodePausesByPausedNodeValue(raw []byte) (PausesByPausedNodeValue, error)
 	return v, nil
 }
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>".
+func PausesByDroppedIDKey(id string) string { return "dropped." + id }
+
+// ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey reads the parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", in the order of the form; the last result is false for a key of another form.
+func ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey(key string) (string, bool) {
+	rest := key
+	if !strings.HasPrefix(rest, "dropped.") {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	rest = rest[8:]
+	if rest == "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	v1 := rest
+	rest = ""
+	if rest != "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	return v1, true
+}
+
+// DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue reads one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>", refusing a field PausesByDroppedIDValue does not know and any text after the value.
+func DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue(raw []byte) (PausesByDroppedIDValue, error) {
+	var v PausesByDroppedIDValue
+	dec := json.NewDecoder(bytes.NewReader(raw))
+	dec.DisallowUnknownFields()
+	if err := dec.Decode(&v); err != nil {
+		return v, err
+	}
+	if dec.More() {
+		return v, errors.New("text after the value")
+	}
+	return v, nil
+}
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>".
 func PausesByCapacityNodeKey(node string) string { return "capacity." + node }
 
@@ -245,6 +281,16 @@ type ComposeAnswer struct {
 	Verdict any `json:"verdict,omitempty"`
 }
 
+// Drop is an ask a caller no longer waits for.
+type Drop struct {
+	// when (RFC 3339 time)
+	At *time.Time `json:"at,omitempty"`
+	By string     `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the layout version
+	V   int64  `json:"v,omitempty"`
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
 // FetchBesideItem is a type of the contract.
 type FetchBesideItem struct {
 	Commit     string `json:"commit"`
@@ -433,19 +479,25 @@ type RunProgram struct {
 
 // Step is one step a build module runs on a node.
 type Step struct {
+	// when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time)
+	AgainAt *time.Time `json:"again-at,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Ended *time.Time `json:"ended,omitempty"`
 	ID    string     `json:"id"`
 	Node  string     `json:"node"`
 	Owner string     `json:"owner,omitempty"`
-	Phase string     `json:"phase,omitempty"`
+	// true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so
+	Passing bool   `json:"passing,omitempty"`
+	Phase   string `json:"phase,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	PhaseAt *time.Time  `json:"phase-at,omitempty"`
 	Reason  string      `json:"reason,omitempty"`
 	Result  *StepResult `json:"result,omitempty"`
+	// which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first)
+	Run int64 `json:"run,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Started time.Time `json:"started"`
-	// running, passed, failed or refused
+	// running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused
 	State string `json:"state"`
 	Tool  string `json:"tool"`
 	// the layout version
@@ -588,6 +640,19 @@ type ResumeInput struct {
 // ResumeAnswer is what resume answers.
 type ResumeAnswer = map[string]any
 
+// DropInput is what drop takes.
+type DropInput struct {
+	// who drops it
+	By string `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the ask's id
+	ID string `json:"id"`
+	// why the caller no longer waits
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
+// DropAnswer is what drop answers.
+type DropAnswer = map[string]any
+
 // DeliveryAccept is the body of delivery.
 type DeliveryAccept = StepAsk
 
@@ -603,6 +668,9 @@ type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step
 // PausesByPausedNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>.
 type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDValue is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>.
+type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>.
 type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity
 
diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract_test.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract_test.go
index f120459d..2750cb84 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract_test.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildgo/contract_test.go
@@ -53,6 +53,12 @@ func TestFixtures(t *testing.T) {
 			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v CheckAccept; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: regexp.MustCompile("^mesh\\.seat\\.node-build-go\\.accept\\.check$")},
 		{name: "a finished run step whose program exited non-zero", subject: "", given: "{\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:00Z\",\"id\":\"r5e6\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"result\":{\"built\":true,\"exit\":2,\"key\":\"program-0123456789abcdef\",\"said\":\"the facts name no head\"},\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"failed\",\"tool\":\"check\",\"v\":1}", wire: "{\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:00Z\",\"id\":\"r5e6\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"result\":{\"built\":true,\"exit\":2,\"key\":\"program-0123456789abcdef\",\"said\":\"the facts name no head\"},\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"failed\",\"tool\":\"check\",\"v\":1}",
 			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v StepsByNodeIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus", subject: "", given: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}", wire: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v StepsByNodeIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits", subject: "", given: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v PausesByDroppedIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "drop names the ask and why", subject: "", given: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v DropInput; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
 	}
 	for _, c := range cases {
 		v, err := c.decode([]byte(c.given))
diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract.go
index 8ea6e02f..11c36d89 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract.go
@@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ const (
 	VerbCurrent = "current"
 	VerbPause   = "pause"
 	VerbResume  = "resume"
+	VerbDrop    = "drop"
 )
 
 const (
@@ -28,7 +29,7 @@ const (
 
 // Verbs is every verb the seat serves, in its definition's order: a new copy each call.
 func Verbs() []string {
-	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume}
+	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume, VerbDrop}
 }
 
 // AcceptSubjectDelivery is where delivery is sent.
@@ -117,6 +118,41 @@ func DecodePausesByPausedNodeValue(raw []byte) (PausesByPausedNodeValue, error)
 	return v, nil
 }
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>".
+func PausesByDroppedIDKey(id string) string { return "dropped." + id }
+
+// ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey reads the parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", in the order of the form; the last result is false for a key of another form.
+func ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey(key string) (string, bool) {
+	rest := key
+	if !strings.HasPrefix(rest, "dropped.") {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	rest = rest[8:]
+	if rest == "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	v1 := rest
+	rest = ""
+	if rest != "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	return v1, true
+}
+
+// DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue reads one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>", refusing a field PausesByDroppedIDValue does not know and any text after the value.
+func DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue(raw []byte) (PausesByDroppedIDValue, error) {
+	var v PausesByDroppedIDValue
+	dec := json.NewDecoder(bytes.NewReader(raw))
+	dec.DisallowUnknownFields()
+	if err := dec.Decode(&v); err != nil {
+		return v, err
+	}
+	if dec.More() {
+		return v, errors.New("text after the value")
+	}
+	return v, nil
+}
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>".
 func PausesByCapacityNodeKey(node string) string { return "capacity." + node }
 
@@ -245,6 +281,16 @@ type ComposeAnswer struct {
 	Verdict any `json:"verdict,omitempty"`
 }
 
+// Drop is an ask a caller no longer waits for.
+type Drop struct {
+	// when (RFC 3339 time)
+	At *time.Time `json:"at,omitempty"`
+	By string     `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the layout version
+	V   int64  `json:"v,omitempty"`
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
 // FetchBesideItem is a type of the contract.
 type FetchBesideItem struct {
 	Commit     string `json:"commit"`
@@ -433,19 +479,25 @@ type RunProgram struct {
 
 // Step is one step a build module runs on a node.
 type Step struct {
+	// when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time)
+	AgainAt *time.Time `json:"again-at,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Ended *time.Time `json:"ended,omitempty"`
 	ID    string     `json:"id"`
 	Node  string     `json:"node"`
 	Owner string     `json:"owner,omitempty"`
-	Phase string     `json:"phase,omitempty"`
+	// true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so
+	Passing bool   `json:"passing,omitempty"`
+	Phase   string `json:"phase,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	PhaseAt *time.Time  `json:"phase-at,omitempty"`
 	Reason  string      `json:"reason,omitempty"`
 	Result  *StepResult `json:"result,omitempty"`
+	// which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first)
+	Run int64 `json:"run,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Started time.Time `json:"started"`
-	// running, passed, failed or refused
+	// running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused
 	State string `json:"state"`
 	Tool  string `json:"tool"`
 	// the layout version
@@ -588,6 +640,19 @@ type ResumeInput struct {
 // ResumeAnswer is what resume answers.
 type ResumeAnswer = map[string]any
 
+// DropInput is what drop takes.
+type DropInput struct {
+	// who drops it
+	By string `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the ask's id
+	ID string `json:"id"`
+	// why the caller no longer waits
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
+// DropAnswer is what drop answers.
+type DropAnswer = map[string]any
+
 // DeliveryAccept is the body of delivery.
 type DeliveryAccept = StepAsk
 
@@ -603,6 +668,9 @@ type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step
 // PausesByPausedNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>.
 type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDValue is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>.
+type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>.
 type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity
 
diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract_test.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract_test.go
index 75649a4a..2926f492 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract_test.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildimage/contract_test.go
@@ -39,6 +39,12 @@ func TestFixtures(t *testing.T) {
 			}, subjectIs: nil},
 		{name: "a build ask", subject: "mesh.seat.node-build-image.accept.delivery", given: "{\"asker\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"build\":{\"artifacts\":[{\"artifact\":\"go\"}],\"module\":\"nats\"},\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"kind\":\"build\",\"language\":\"go\"}", wire: "{\"asker\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"build\":{\"artifacts\":[{\"artifact\":\"go\"}],\"module\":\"nats\"},\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"kind\":\"build\",\"language\":\"go\"}",
 			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v DeliveryAccept; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: regexp.MustCompile("^mesh\\.seat\\.node-build-image\\.accept\\.delivery$")},
+		{name: "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus", subject: "", given: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}", wire: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v StepsByNodeIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits", subject: "", given: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v PausesByDroppedIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "drop names the ask and why", subject: "", given: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v DropInput; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
 	}
 	for _, c := range cases {
 		v, err := c.decode([]byte(c.given))
diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract.go
index b12f7595..07404adf 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract.go
@@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ const (
 	VerbCurrent = "current"
 	VerbPause   = "pause"
 	VerbResume  = "resume"
+	VerbDrop    = "drop"
 )
 
 const (
@@ -28,7 +29,7 @@ const (
 
 // Verbs is every verb the seat serves, in its definition's order: a new copy each call.
 func Verbs() []string {
-	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume}
+	return []string{VerbCurrent, VerbPause, VerbResume, VerbDrop}
 }
 
 // AcceptSubjectDelivery is where delivery is sent.
@@ -117,6 +118,41 @@ func DecodePausesByPausedNodeValue(raw []byte) (PausesByPausedNodeValue, error)
 	return v, nil
 }
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>".
+func PausesByDroppedIDKey(id string) string { return "dropped." + id }
+
+// ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey reads the parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", in the order of the form; the last result is false for a key of another form.
+func ParsePausesByDroppedIDKey(key string) (string, bool) {
+	rest := key
+	if !strings.HasPrefix(rest, "dropped.") {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	rest = rest[8:]
+	if rest == "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	v1 := rest
+	rest = ""
+	if rest != "" {
+		return "", false
+	}
+	return v1, true
+}
+
+// DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue reads one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>", refusing a field PausesByDroppedIDValue does not know and any text after the value.
+func DecodePausesByDroppedIDValue(raw []byte) (PausesByDroppedIDValue, error) {
+	var v PausesByDroppedIDValue
+	dec := json.NewDecoder(bytes.NewReader(raw))
+	dec.DisallowUnknownFields()
+	if err := dec.Decode(&v); err != nil {
+		return v, err
+	}
+	if dec.More() {
+		return v, errors.New("text after the value")
+	}
+	return v, nil
+}
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeKey is the key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>".
 func PausesByCapacityNodeKey(node string) string { return "capacity." + node }
 
@@ -245,6 +281,16 @@ type ComposeAnswer struct {
 	Verdict any `json:"verdict,omitempty"`
 }
 
+// Drop is an ask a caller no longer waits for.
+type Drop struct {
+	// when (RFC 3339 time)
+	At *time.Time `json:"at,omitempty"`
+	By string     `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the layout version
+	V   int64  `json:"v,omitempty"`
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
 // FetchBesideItem is a type of the contract.
 type FetchBesideItem struct {
 	Commit     string `json:"commit"`
@@ -433,19 +479,25 @@ type RunProgram struct {
 
 // Step is one step a build module runs on a node.
 type Step struct {
+	// when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time)
+	AgainAt *time.Time `json:"again-at,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Ended *time.Time `json:"ended,omitempty"`
 	ID    string     `json:"id"`
 	Node  string     `json:"node"`
 	Owner string     `json:"owner,omitempty"`
-	Phase string     `json:"phase,omitempty"`
+	// true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so
+	Passing bool   `json:"passing,omitempty"`
+	Phase   string `json:"phase,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	PhaseAt *time.Time  `json:"phase-at,omitempty"`
 	Reason  string      `json:"reason,omitempty"`
 	Result  *StepResult `json:"result,omitempty"`
+	// which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first)
+	Run int64 `json:"run,omitempty"`
 	// when (RFC 3339 time)
 	Started time.Time `json:"started"`
-	// running, passed, failed or refused
+	// running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused
 	State string `json:"state"`
 	Tool  string `json:"tool"`
 	// the layout version
@@ -588,6 +640,19 @@ type ResumeInput struct {
 // ResumeAnswer is what resume answers.
 type ResumeAnswer = map[string]any
 
+// DropInput is what drop takes.
+type DropInput struct {
+	// who drops it
+	By string `json:"by,omitempty"`
+	// the ask's id
+	ID string `json:"id"`
+	// why the caller no longer waits
+	Why string `json:"why"`
+}
+
+// DropAnswer is what drop answers.
+type DropAnswer = map[string]any
+
 // DeliveryAccept is the body of delivery.
 type DeliveryAccept = StepAsk
 
@@ -603,6 +668,9 @@ type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step
 // PausesByPausedNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>.
 type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause
 
+// PausesByDroppedIDValue is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>.
+type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop
+
 // PausesByCapacityNodeValue is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>.
 type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity
 
diff --git a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract_test.go b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract_test.go
index fd58eeb3..f8bedce6 100644
--- a/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract_test.go
+++ b/contracts/go/seats/nodebuildnode/contract_test.go
@@ -43,6 +43,12 @@ func TestFixtures(t *testing.T) {
 			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v CheckAccept; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: regexp.MustCompile("^mesh\\.seat\\.node-build-node\\.accept\\.check$")},
 		{name: "a finished check step of a TypeScript merge preview", subject: "", given: "{\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:00Z\",\"id\":\"c3d6\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"result\":{\"fetch\":{\"base\":\"abcdef0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01\",\"changed\":[\"modules/m/package.json\"],\"commit\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\",\"merge\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\",\"modules\":[\"modules/m\"],\"trees\":{\"modules/m\":{\"manifest\":\"0581b699d9d05517e69b21f5cedbeb2eee8aba2b205280b561be731594d7feef\",\"tree\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\"}},\"workspace\":\"mvii1sxt979f67\"}},\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"passed\",\"tool\":\"check\",\"v\":1}", wire: "{\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:00Z\",\"id\":\"c3d6\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"result\":{\"fetch\":{\"base\":\"abcdef0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01\",\"changed\":[\"modules/m/package.json\"],\"commit\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\",\"merge\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\",\"modules\":[\"modules/m\"],\"trees\":{\"modules/m\":{\"manifest\":\"0581b699d9d05517e69b21f5cedbeb2eee8aba2b205280b561be731594d7feef\",\"tree\":\"0123456789abcdef0123456789abcdef01234567\"}},\"workspace\":\"mvii1sxt979f67\"}},\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"passed\",\"tool\":\"check\",\"v\":1}",
 			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v StepsByNodeIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus", subject: "", given: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}", wire: "{\"again-at\":\"2026-11-05T10:01:30Z\",\"ended\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:30Z\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"node\":\"ace\",\"passing\":true,\"reason\":\"fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer\",\"run\":1,\"started\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"state\":\"again\",\"tool\":\"build\",\"v\":1}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v StepsByNodeIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits", subject: "", given: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"at\":\"2026-11-05T10:00:00Z\",\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"v\":1,\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v PausesByDroppedIDValue; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
+		{name: "drop names the ask and why", subject: "", given: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}", wire: "{\"by\":\"mesh-delivery-builder\",\"id\":\"a1b2\",\"why\":\"a newer fingerprint supersedes it\"}",
+			decode: func(b []byte) (any, error) { var v DropInput; err := json.Unmarshal(b, &v); return v, err }, subjectIs: nil},
 	}
 	for _, c := range cases {
 		v, err := c.decode([]byte(c.given))
diff --git a/contracts/parts/build-step.json b/contracts/parts/build-step.json
index 9dc9c2ed..faf2d6a3 100644
--- a/contracts/parts/build-step.json
+++ b/contracts/parts/build-step.json
@@ -38,6 +38,36 @@
         "type": "object",
         "description": "whether the node is paused"
       }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "drop",
+      "description": "End an ask this node holds for a caller that no longer waits for it: a step not yet running is refused when it is pulled, one running is cancelled and ends refused, naming who dropped it and why. Writes dropped.<id> in the pauses state; the build module removes the key when it has acted.",
+      "callers": "the build seats' asker (the builder and the checker)",
+      "input": {
+        "type": "object",
+        "properties": {
+          "id": {
+            "type": "string",
+            "description": "the ask's id"
+          },
+          "by": {
+            "type": "string",
+            "description": "who drops it"
+          },
+          "why": {
+            "type": "string",
+            "description": "why the caller no longer waits"
+          }
+        },
+        "required": [
+          "id",
+          "why"
+        ]
+      },
+      "answer": {
+        "type": "object",
+        "description": "whether the ask was held here"
+      }
     }
   ],
   "defs": {
@@ -404,7 +434,7 @@
         },
         "state": {
           "type": "string",
-          "description": "running, passed, failed or refused"
+          "description": "running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused"
         },
         "started": {
           "type": "string",
@@ -435,6 +465,19 @@
         },
         "owner": {
           "type": "string"
+        },
+        "run": {
+          "type": "integer",
+          "description": "which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first)"
+        },
+        "again-at": {
+          "type": "string",
+          "description": "when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time)",
+          "format": "date-time"
+        },
+        "passing": {
+          "type": "boolean",
+          "description": "true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so"
         }
       },
       "required": [
@@ -476,6 +519,30 @@
       ],
       "description": "the toolchain a node reports"
     },
+    "Drop": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "properties": {
+        "v": {
+          "type": "integer",
+          "description": "the layout version"
+        },
+        "by": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "why": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "at": {
+          "type": "string",
+          "description": "when (RFC 3339 time)",
+          "format": "date-time"
+        }
+      },
+      "required": [
+        "why"
+      ],
+      "description": "an ask a caller no longer waits for"
+    },
     "Pause": {
       "type": "object",
       "properties": {
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/states.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/states.json
index bde9d6d6..9af3c52c 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/states.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/states.json
@@ -312,5 +312,32 @@
         "said": "the facts name no head"
       }
     }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus",
+    "of": "state:steps/<node>.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "tool": "build",
+      "node": "ace",
+      "state": "again",
+      "started": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z",
+      "ended": "2026-11-05T10:00:30Z",
+      "reason": "fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer",
+      "run": 1,
+      "again-at": "2026-11-05T10:01:30Z",
+      "passing": true
+    }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits",
+    "of": "state:pauses/dropped.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it",
+      "at": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z"
+    }
   }
 ]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/verbs.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/verbs.json
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..727e95b6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/fixtures/verbs.json
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+[
+  {
+    "name": "drop names the ask and why",
+    "of": "verb:drop.input",
+    "given": {
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it"
+    }
+  }
+]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-go/seat.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/seat.json
index a810a6bb..ccdd85cd 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-go/seat.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-go/seat.json
@@ -58,6 +58,13 @@
           },
           "description": "whether a node is paused"
         },
+        {
+          "key": "dropped.<id>",
+          "value": {
+            "$ref": "#/defs/Drop"
+          },
+          "description": "an ask its caller no longer waits for"
+        },
         {
           "key": "capacity.<node>",
           "value": {
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/states.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/states.json
index b49e8c53..7e3ef453 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/states.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/states.json
@@ -59,5 +59,32 @@
         ]
       }
     }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus",
+    "of": "state:steps/<node>.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "tool": "build",
+      "node": "ace",
+      "state": "again",
+      "started": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z",
+      "ended": "2026-11-05T10:00:30Z",
+      "reason": "fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer",
+      "run": 1,
+      "again-at": "2026-11-05T10:01:30Z",
+      "passing": true
+    }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits",
+    "of": "state:pauses/dropped.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it",
+      "at": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z"
+    }
   }
 ]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/verbs.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/verbs.json
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..727e95b6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/fixtures/verbs.json
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+[
+  {
+    "name": "drop names the ask and why",
+    "of": "verb:drop.input",
+    "given": {
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it"
+    }
+  }
+]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-image/seat.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/seat.json
index 037a8907..60295d98 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-image/seat.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-image/seat.json
@@ -58,6 +58,13 @@
           },
           "description": "whether a node is paused"
         },
+        {
+          "key": "dropped.<id>",
+          "value": {
+            "$ref": "#/defs/Drop"
+          },
+          "description": "an ask its caller no longer waits for"
+        },
         {
           "key": "capacity.<node>",
           "value": {
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/states.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/states.json
index 125819d0..d8e5ea20 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/states.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/states.json
@@ -131,5 +131,32 @@
         }
       }
     }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "a step ended on a transport fault, given again by the bus",
+    "of": "state:steps/<node>.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "tool": "build",
+      "node": "ace",
+      "state": "again",
+      "started": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z",
+      "ended": "2026-11-05T10:00:30Z",
+      "reason": "fetching the commit: kex_exchange_identification: read: Connection reset by peer",
+      "run": 1,
+      "again-at": "2026-11-05T10:01:30Z",
+      "passing": true
+    }
+  },
+  {
+    "name": "an ask dropped by the caller that no longer waits",
+    "of": "state:pauses/dropped.<id>",
+    "given": {
+      "v": 1,
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it",
+      "at": "2026-11-05T10:00:00Z"
+    }
   }
 ]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/verbs.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/verbs.json
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..727e95b6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/fixtures/verbs.json
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+[
+  {
+    "name": "drop names the ask and why",
+    "of": "verb:drop.input",
+    "given": {
+      "id": "a1b2",
+      "by": "mesh-delivery-builder",
+      "why": "a newer fingerprint supersedes it"
+    }
+  }
+]
diff --git a/contracts/seats/node-build-node/seat.json b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/seat.json
index 6fce1468..74873ba1 100644
--- a/contracts/seats/node-build-node/seat.json
+++ b/contracts/seats/node-build-node/seat.json
@@ -58,6 +58,13 @@
           },
           "description": "whether a node is paused"
         },
+        {
+          "key": "dropped.<id>",
+          "value": {
+            "$ref": "#/defs/Drop"
+          },
+          "description": "an ask its caller no longer waits for"
+        },
         {
           "key": "capacity.<node>",
           "value": {
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/index.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/index.ts
index 0c6834dc..a465a45d 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/index.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/index.ts
@@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 export const accepts = {
@@ -66,6 +67,23 @@ export function parsePausesByPausedNodeKey(_key: string): { node: string } | und
   return { node };
 }
 
+/** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>". */
+export function pausesByDroppedIDKey(id: string): string {
+  return "dropped." + id;
+}
+
+/** The parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", or undefined for a key of another form. */
+export function parsePausesByDroppedIDKey(_key: string): { id: string } | undefined {
+  let _rest = _key;
+  if (!_rest.startsWith("dropped.")) return undefined;
+  _rest = _rest.slice(8);
+  if (_rest === "") return undefined;
+  const id = _rest;
+  _rest = "";
+  if (_rest !== "") return undefined;
+  return { id };
+}
+
 /** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>". */
 export function pausesByCapacityNodeKey(node: string): string {
   return "capacity." + node;
@@ -110,6 +128,9 @@ export type CheckAnswer = buildStep.CheckAnswer;
 export type ComposeAnswer = buildStep.ComposeAnswer;
 export type CurrentAnswer = buildStep.CurrentAnswer;
 export type CurrentInput = buildStep.CurrentInput;
+export type Drop = buildStep.Drop;
+export type DropAnswer = buildStep.DropAnswer;
+export type DropInput = buildStep.DropInput;
 export type Fetch = buildStep.Fetch;
 export type FetchAnswer = buildStep.FetchAnswer;
 export type FetchBesideItem = buildStep.FetchBesideItem;
@@ -159,6 +180,9 @@ export type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step;
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>. */
 export type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause;
 
+/** is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>. */
+export type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop;
+
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>. */
 export type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity;
 
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/parts/build-step.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/parts/build-step.ts
index 1aee13ff..c3d1c882 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/parts/build-step.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildgo/src/parts/build-step.ts
@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 /** one artifact of a build ask: built from the fetched tree, or copied from an upstream pin */
@@ -62,6 +63,16 @@ export interface ComposeAnswer {
   "verdict"?: unknown;
 }
 
+/** an ask a caller no longer waits for */
+export interface Drop {
+  /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "at"?: string;
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the layout version */
+  "v"?: number;
+  "why": string;
+}
+
 export interface FetchBesideItem {
   "commit": string;
   "repository": string;
@@ -244,19 +255,25 @@ export interface RunProgram {
 
 /** one step a build module runs on a node */
 export interface Step {
+  /** when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "again-at"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "ended"?: string;
   "id": string;
   "node": string;
   "owner"?: string;
+  /** true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so */
+  "passing"?: boolean;
   "phase"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "phase-at"?: string;
   "reason"?: string;
   "result"?: StepResult;
+  /** which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first) */
+  "run"?: number;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "started": string;
-  /** running, passed, failed or refused */
+  /** running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused */
   "state": string;
   "tool": string;
   /** the layout version */
@@ -396,3 +413,16 @@ export interface ResumeInput {
 /** is what resume answers. */
 export type ResumeAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
 
+/** is what drop takes. */
+export interface DropInput {
+  /** who drops it */
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the ask's id */
+  "id": string;
+  /** why the caller no longer waits */
+  "why": string;
+}
+
+/** is what drop answers. */
+export type DropAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
+
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/index.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/index.ts
index 91e5d235..8024a0d0 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/index.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/index.ts
@@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 export const accepts = {
@@ -66,6 +67,23 @@ export function parsePausesByPausedNodeKey(_key: string): { node: string } | und
   return { node };
 }
 
+/** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>". */
+export function pausesByDroppedIDKey(id: string): string {
+  return "dropped." + id;
+}
+
+/** The parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", or undefined for a key of another form. */
+export function parsePausesByDroppedIDKey(_key: string): { id: string } | undefined {
+  let _rest = _key;
+  if (!_rest.startsWith("dropped.")) return undefined;
+  _rest = _rest.slice(8);
+  if (_rest === "") return undefined;
+  const id = _rest;
+  _rest = "";
+  if (_rest !== "") return undefined;
+  return { id };
+}
+
 /** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>". */
 export function pausesByCapacityNodeKey(node: string): string {
   return "capacity." + node;
@@ -110,6 +128,9 @@ export type CheckAnswer = buildStep.CheckAnswer;
 export type ComposeAnswer = buildStep.ComposeAnswer;
 export type CurrentAnswer = buildStep.CurrentAnswer;
 export type CurrentInput = buildStep.CurrentInput;
+export type Drop = buildStep.Drop;
+export type DropAnswer = buildStep.DropAnswer;
+export type DropInput = buildStep.DropInput;
 export type Fetch = buildStep.Fetch;
 export type FetchAnswer = buildStep.FetchAnswer;
 export type FetchBesideItem = buildStep.FetchBesideItem;
@@ -159,6 +180,9 @@ export type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step;
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>. */
 export type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause;
 
+/** is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>. */
+export type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop;
+
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>. */
 export type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity;
 
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/parts/build-step.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/parts/build-step.ts
index 1aee13ff..c3d1c882 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/parts/build-step.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildimage/src/parts/build-step.ts
@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 /** one artifact of a build ask: built from the fetched tree, or copied from an upstream pin */
@@ -62,6 +63,16 @@ export interface ComposeAnswer {
   "verdict"?: unknown;
 }
 
+/** an ask a caller no longer waits for */
+export interface Drop {
+  /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "at"?: string;
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the layout version */
+  "v"?: number;
+  "why": string;
+}
+
 export interface FetchBesideItem {
   "commit": string;
   "repository": string;
@@ -244,19 +255,25 @@ export interface RunProgram {
 
 /** one step a build module runs on a node */
 export interface Step {
+  /** when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "again-at"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "ended"?: string;
   "id": string;
   "node": string;
   "owner"?: string;
+  /** true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so */
+  "passing"?: boolean;
   "phase"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "phase-at"?: string;
   "reason"?: string;
   "result"?: StepResult;
+  /** which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first) */
+  "run"?: number;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "started": string;
-  /** running, passed, failed or refused */
+  /** running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused */
   "state": string;
   "tool": string;
   /** the layout version */
@@ -396,3 +413,16 @@ export interface ResumeInput {
 /** is what resume answers. */
 export type ResumeAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
 
+/** is what drop takes. */
+export interface DropInput {
+  /** who drops it */
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the ask's id */
+  "id": string;
+  /** why the caller no longer waits */
+  "why": string;
+}
+
+/** is what drop answers. */
+export type DropAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
+
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/index.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/index.ts
index faba1e6a..85ec77b6 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/index.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/index.ts
@@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 export const accepts = {
@@ -66,6 +67,23 @@ export function parsePausesByPausedNodeKey(_key: string): { node: string } | und
   return { node };
 }
 
+/** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "dropped.<id>". */
+export function pausesByDroppedIDKey(id: string): string {
+  return "dropped." + id;
+}
+
+/** The parts of a key of the form "dropped.<id>", or undefined for a key of another form. */
+export function parsePausesByDroppedIDKey(_key: string): { id: string } | undefined {
+  let _rest = _key;
+  if (!_rest.startsWith("dropped.")) return undefined;
+  _rest = _rest.slice(8);
+  if (_rest === "") return undefined;
+  const id = _rest;
+  _rest = "";
+  if (_rest !== "") return undefined;
+  return { id };
+}
+
 /** The key of one value of the state pauses under the form "capacity.<node>". */
 export function pausesByCapacityNodeKey(node: string): string {
   return "capacity." + node;
@@ -110,6 +128,9 @@ export type CheckAnswer = buildStep.CheckAnswer;
 export type ComposeAnswer = buildStep.ComposeAnswer;
 export type CurrentAnswer = buildStep.CurrentAnswer;
 export type CurrentInput = buildStep.CurrentInput;
+export type Drop = buildStep.Drop;
+export type DropAnswer = buildStep.DropAnswer;
+export type DropInput = buildStep.DropInput;
 export type Fetch = buildStep.Fetch;
 export type FetchAnswer = buildStep.FetchAnswer;
 export type FetchBesideItem = buildStep.FetchBesideItem;
@@ -159,6 +180,9 @@ export type StepsByNodeIDValue = Step;
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key paused.<node>. */
 export type PausesByPausedNodeValue = Pause;
 
+/** is one value of the state pauses under the key dropped.<id>. */
+export type PausesByDroppedIDValue = Drop;
+
 /** is one value of the state pauses under the key capacity.<node>. */
 export type PausesByCapacityNodeValue = Capacity;
 
diff --git a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/parts/build-step.ts b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/parts/build-step.ts
index 1aee13ff..c3d1c882 100644
--- a/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/parts/build-step.ts
+++ b/contracts/ts/seats/nodebuildnode/src/parts/build-step.ts
@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ export const verbs = {
   current: "current",
   pause: "pause",
   resume: "resume",
+  drop: "drop",
 } as const;
 
 /** one artifact of a build ask: built from the fetched tree, or copied from an upstream pin */
@@ -62,6 +63,16 @@ export interface ComposeAnswer {
   "verdict"?: unknown;
 }
 
+/** an ask a caller no longer waits for */
+export interface Drop {
+  /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "at"?: string;
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the layout version */
+  "v"?: number;
+  "why": string;
+}
+
 export interface FetchBesideItem {
   "commit": string;
   "repository": string;
@@ -244,19 +255,25 @@ export interface RunProgram {
 
 /** one step a build module runs on a node */
 export interface Step {
+  /** when the bus gives the ask again, for the state again (RFC 3339 time) */
+  "again-at"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "ended"?: string;
   "id": string;
   "node": string;
   "owner"?: string;
+  /** true when the step ended on a fault that passes (a transport fault), so a failed end after the last run says so */
+  "passing"?: boolean;
   "phase"?: string;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "phase-at"?: string;
   "reason"?: string;
   "result"?: StepResult;
+  /** which run of the ask this is, counted by the bus's delivery count (1 for the first) */
+  "run"?: number;
   /** when (RFC 3339 time) */
   "started": string;
-  /** running, passed, failed or refused */
+  /** running, again (ended on a transport fault, to be given again by the bus after again-at), passed, failed or refused */
   "state": string;
   "tool": string;
   /** the layout version */
@@ -396,3 +413,16 @@ export interface ResumeInput {
 /** is what resume answers. */
 export type ResumeAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
 
+/** is what drop takes. */
+export interface DropInput {
+  /** who drops it */
+  "by"?: string;
+  /** the ask's id */
+  "id": string;
+  /** why the caller no longer waits */
+  "why": string;
+}
+
+/** is what drop answers. */
+export type DropAnswer = Record<string, unknown>;
+