diff --git a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_empty.msgpack b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_empty.msgpack
index d76779755..e87009e6b 100644
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diff --git a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_multi_entity.msgpack b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_multi_entity.msgpack
index 94055d595..edcc2b3b5 100644
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diff --git a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_one_npc.msgpack b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_one_npc.msgpack
index 698b97852..b8edf9b55 100644
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diff --git a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_player.msgpack b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_player.msgpack
index a3be5bea6..e45b6ef57 100644
Binary files a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_player.msgpack and b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_player.msgpack differ
diff --git a/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_v2_full.msgpack b/client/tests/fixtures/msgpack/snapshot_v2_full.msgpack
index 2b830526b..c1488bd9a 100644
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diff --git a/server/src/bridge/types.rs b/server/src/bridge/types.rs
index 3251c94c1..7dbc94bec 100644
--- a/server/src/bridge/types.rs
+++ b/server/src/bridge/types.rs
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ pub use crate::simulation::time::{DayPhase, TickRate};
 /// negotiation is unnecessary. Client should reject snapshots with version !=
 /// PROTOCOL_VERSION. New fields use #[serde(default)] only during the migration
 /// period, then the default is removed once both sides are updated.
-pub const PROTOCOL_VERSION: u8 = 6;
+pub const PROTOCOL_VERSION: u8 = 7;
 
 /// The ONLY data structure crossing the client-server boundary (D-020)
 /// Contains all information visible to the observer at a given tick.
@@ -25,6 +25,7 @@ pub const PROTOCOL_VERSION: u8 = 6;
 /// v4 adds: nearby_interactions (D-060, #404 proximity + verbs[]).
 /// v5 adds: current_monologue (#414 internal monologue pipeline).
 /// v6 adds: player_stance (#449, D-053), player_inventory (#449, D-065).
+/// v7 adds: pending_recognitions (#423, D-060 cognitive delay).
 /// Future fields: ambient sound events, HUD state (D-020 expansion).
 #[derive(Debug, Clone, Serialize, Deserialize)]
 pub struct ObserverSnapshot {
@@ -56,6 +57,11 @@ pub struct ObserverSnapshot {
     /// None when no monologue is triggered. Client shows text and auto-fades.
     #[serde(default)]
     pub current_monologue: Option<MonologueEvent>,
+    /// Entities undergoing cognitive delay recognition (#423, D-060).
+    /// Client renders these as grey blobs at position until recognition completes.
+    /// Empty when no recognitions are pending.
+    #[serde(default)]
+    pub pending_recognitions: Vec<PendingRecognitionWire>,
 }
 
 /// Game time data for client display (D-031)
@@ -382,6 +388,23 @@ pub enum VerbKind {
     ExamineObject,
 }
 
+/// A recognition pending cognitive delay, included in ObserverSnapshot (#423, D-060).
+/// Client renders entity as grey blob at position until recognition completes.
+/// Visual transition: grey blob -> D-033 color + silhouette over ~0.3s.
+#[derive(Debug, Clone, Serialize, Deserialize)]
+pub struct PendingRecognitionWire {
+    /// Wire entity ID (may match entity_id in VisibleEntity if also in entities list)
+    pub entity_id: u64,
+    /// Render position
+    pub x: f32,
+    pub y: f32,
+    pub z: i32,
+    /// Remaining ticks until recognition completes (for progress animation)
+    pub remaining_ticks: u64,
+    /// Total delay for this recognition (for animation timing)
+    pub total_delay_ticks: u64,
+}
+
 /// Internal monologue event sent to the client for display (#414).
 /// Contains the text and display duration. Client auto-fades after duration.
 #[derive(Debug, Clone, Serialize, Deserialize)]
diff --git a/server/src/knowledge/events.rs b/server/src/knowledge/events.rs
index 440ba6564..e97e9bc58 100644
--- a/server/src/knowledge/events.rs
+++ b/server/src/knowledge/events.rs
@@ -79,8 +79,15 @@ pub fn process_knowledge_events(
                 if let Some(stable_id) = registry.to_stable(target) {
                     observer_kg.observe_entity(stable_id, position, event.tick);
                 } else {
-                    debug_assert!(false, "DirectObservation target {:?} not in EntityRegistry", target);
-                    tracing::error!("DirectObservation target {:?} not in EntityRegistry", target);
+                    debug_assert!(
+                        false,
+                        "DirectObservation target {:?} not in EntityRegistry",
+                        target
+                    );
+                    tracing::error!(
+                        "DirectObservation target {:?} not in EntityRegistry",
+                        target
+                    );
                 }
             }
             KnowledgeEventType::LeftLOS { target } => {
@@ -262,7 +269,11 @@ mod tests {
         world.insert_resource(thresholds);
 
         // Tick 7: not a multiple of 10, decay should NOT run
-        world.insert_resource({ let mut t = SimulationTime::default(); t.tick = 7; t });
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 7;
+            t
+        });
         let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
         schedule.add_systems(decay_knowledge);
         schedule.run(&mut world);
@@ -275,7 +286,11 @@ mod tests {
         );
 
         // Tick 10: multiple of 10, decay SHOULD run (age = 10 > decay_after = 5)
-        world.insert_resource({ let mut t = SimulationTime::default(); t.tick = 10; t });
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 10;
+            t
+        });
         let mut schedule2 = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
         schedule2.add_systems(decay_knowledge);
         schedule2.run(&mut world);
diff --git a/server/src/main.rs b/server/src/main.rs
index 0301e2f61..750312267 100644
--- a/server/src/main.rs
+++ b/server/src/main.rs
@@ -13,9 +13,13 @@ use settled_reach_server::npc::{
     Contentment, DailyRoutine, Npc, NpcPlugin, RelationshipKind, RoutineEntry, ToleranceThreshold,
     Want, WantKind,
 };
+use settled_reach_server::perception::cognitive_delay::CognitiveDelay;
 use settled_reach_server::perception::vision_cone::Facing;
 use settled_reach_server::simulation::interaction::{Interactable, NearbyInteractionBuffer};
-use settled_reach_server::simulation::monologue::{MonologueBuffer, MonologueState, SprintAnomalyQueue};
+use settled_reach_server::simulation::listening::ListeningFocus;
+use settled_reach_server::simulation::monologue::{
+    MonologueBuffer, MonologueState, SprintAnomalyQueue,
+};
 use settled_reach_server::simulation::movement::{PlayerCharacter, TilePosition, WalkabilityMap};
 use settled_reach_server::simulation::path_follow::MovementSpeed;
 use settled_reach_server::simulation::stance::{MovementProfile, PlayerMoveCooldown};
@@ -77,6 +81,8 @@ fn main() {
             MonologueState::default(),
             MonologueBuffer::default(),
             SprintAnomalyQueue::default(),
+            CognitiveDelay::default(),
+            ListeningFocus::new(TilePosition::new(16, 16, 0)),
             profile,
             profile.initial_stance(),
             PlayerMoveCooldown::default(),
diff --git a/server/src/perception/cognitive_delay.rs b/server/src/perception/cognitive_delay.rs
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..35977aca2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/server/src/perception/cognitive_delay.rs
@@ -0,0 +1,509 @@
+//! Cognitive delay system for fog recognition (#423, D-060).
+//!
+//! Recognition is NOT instant. When the observer first perceives an entity
+//! not yet in their knowledge graph, recognition is buffered through a
+//! cognitive delay: 0.6s (6 ticks) normal, 0.3s (3 ticks) urgent.
+//!
+//! Flow: observation.rs detects new entity -> CognitiveDelay buffers ->
+//! process_cognitive_delay drains on expiry -> KnowledgeEvent emitted.
+//!
+//! Client-facing: ObserverSnapshot.pending_recognitions lists entities
+//! undergoing recognition (grey blobs with no identity until delay expires).
+
+use bevy_ecs::prelude::*;
+
+use crate::knowledge::types::StableId;
+use crate::knowledge::{KnowledgeEvent, KnowledgeEventQueue, KnowledgeEventType};
+use crate::simulation::movement::TilePosition;
+use crate::simulation::time::SimulationTime;
+
+/// Base cognitive delay: 0.6 seconds = 6 ticks at 10 tps (D-031, D-060).
+/// Tunable: expect playtesting adjustments.
+pub const NORMAL_DELAY_TICKS: u64 = 6;
+
+/// Urgent cognitive delay: 0.3 seconds = 3 ticks at 10 tps (D-031, D-060).
+/// Triggered when observe_anomaly context is active.
+pub const URGENT_DELAY_TICKS: u64 = 3;
+
+/// How the recognition was triggered, determines delay duration.
+#[derive(Debug, Clone, Copy, PartialEq, Eq)]
+pub enum RecognitionTrigger {
+    /// Standard perception event. 0.6s = 6 ticks.
+    Normal,
+    /// Urgent context (observe_anomaly). 0.3s = 3 ticks.
+    Urgent,
+}
+
+impl RecognitionTrigger {
+    /// Delay in simulation ticks for this trigger type.
+    pub fn delay_ticks(self) -> u64 {
+        match self {
+            Self::Normal => NORMAL_DELAY_TICKS,
+            Self::Urgent => URGENT_DELAY_TICKS,
+        }
+    }
+}
+
+/// A single pending recognition in the cognitive delay pipeline.
+#[derive(Debug, Clone)]
+pub struct PendingRecognition {
+    /// Bevy entity being recognized.
+    pub target: Entity,
+    /// Stable entity ID (for KG and wire format).
+    pub stable_id: StableId,
+    /// Position where the entity was perceived.
+    pub position: TilePosition,
+    /// Tick when recognition will complete.
+    pub delay_until_tick: u64,
+    /// What triggered this recognition.
+    pub trigger: RecognitionTrigger,
+}
+
+/// Component: cognitive delay buffer for entity recognition (D-060).
+///
+/// Attached to entities with a KnowledgeGraph (player character, NPCs in future).
+/// Tracks pending recognitions -- entities that have been perceived but not yet
+/// identified. Drained by `process_cognitive_delay` each tick.
+#[derive(Component, Debug, Default)]
+pub struct CognitiveDelay {
+    pending: Vec<PendingRecognition>,
+}
+
+impl CognitiveDelay {
+    /// Queue a new pending recognition.
+    pub fn push(&mut self, recognition: PendingRecognition) {
+        self.pending.push(recognition);
+    }
+
+    /// Check if an entity is already pending recognition.
+    pub fn is_pending(&self, stable_id: &StableId) -> bool {
+        self.pending.iter().any(|p| p.stable_id == *stable_id)
+    }
+
+    /// Cancel a pending recognition (e.g., entity left perception range).
+    /// Returns the cancelled entry if it existed.
+    pub fn cancel(&mut self, stable_id: &StableId) -> Option<PendingRecognition> {
+        if let Some(idx) = self.pending.iter().position(|p| p.stable_id == *stable_id) {
+            Some(self.pending.swap_remove(idx))
+        } else {
+            None
+        }
+    }
+
+    /// Drain all recognitions whose delay has expired (delay_until_tick <= current_tick).
+    pub fn drain_ready(&mut self, current_tick: u64) -> Vec<PendingRecognition> {
+        let mut ready = Vec::new();
+        self.pending.retain(|p| {
+            if current_tick >= p.delay_until_tick {
+                ready.push(p.clone());
+                false
+            } else {
+                true
+            }
+        });
+        ready
+    }
+
+    /// Read-only access to pending recognitions (for snapshot assembly).
+    pub fn pending(&self) -> &[PendingRecognition] {
+        &self.pending
+    }
+
+    /// Number of pending recognitions.
+    pub fn len(&self) -> usize {
+        self.pending.len()
+    }
+
+    /// Whether there are any pending recognitions.
+    pub fn is_empty(&self) -> bool {
+        self.pending.is_empty()
+    }
+}
+
+/// System: drain expired cognitive delays and emit KnowledgeEvents (#423, D-060).
+///
+/// Each tick, checks CognitiveDelay components for expired recognition timers.
+/// Expired recognitions are converted to DirectObservation KnowledgeEvents.
+///
+/// System ordering: after emit_observation_events, before process_knowledge_events.
+pub fn process_cognitive_delay(
+    time: Res<SimulationTime>,
+    mut query: Query<(Entity, &mut CognitiveDelay)>,
+    mut event_queue: ResMut<KnowledgeEventQueue>,
+) {
+    for (observer, mut delay) in query.iter_mut() {
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(time.tick);
+        for recognition in ready {
+            event_queue.push(KnowledgeEvent {
+                observer,
+                tick: time.tick,
+                event_type: KnowledgeEventType::DirectObservation {
+                    target: recognition.target,
+                    position: recognition.position,
+                },
+            });
+            tracing::debug!(
+                "Cognitive delay resolved: target={:?}, stable_id={}, trigger={:?}, tick={}",
+                recognition.target,
+                recognition.stable_id.0,
+                recognition.trigger,
+                time.tick,
+            );
+        }
+    }
+}
+
+#[cfg(test)]
+mod tests {
+    use super::*;
+    use crate::knowledge::registry::EntityRegistry;
+    use crate::knowledge::KnowledgeGraph;
+    use bevy_ecs::world::World;
+
+    // --- RecognitionTrigger ---
+
+    #[test]
+    fn trigger_delay_values() {
+        assert_eq!(RecognitionTrigger::Normal.delay_ticks(), NORMAL_DELAY_TICKS);
+        assert_eq!(RecognitionTrigger::Urgent.delay_ticks(), URGENT_DELAY_TICKS);
+        assert_eq!(NORMAL_DELAY_TICKS, 6);
+        assert_eq!(URGENT_DELAY_TICKS, 3);
+    }
+
+    // --- CognitiveDelay component ---
+
+    #[test]
+    fn default_is_empty() {
+        let delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        assert!(delay.is_empty());
+        assert_eq!(delay.len(), 0);
+        assert!(delay.pending().is_empty());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn push_adds_pending() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        assert_eq!(delay.len(), 1);
+        assert!(delay.is_pending(&StableId(1)));
+        assert!(!delay.is_pending(&StableId(2)));
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn cancel_removes_and_returns_entry() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        let cancelled = delay.cancel(&StableId(1));
+        assert!(cancelled.is_some());
+        assert_eq!(cancelled.unwrap().stable_id, StableId(1));
+        assert!(delay.is_empty());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn cancel_missing_returns_none() {
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        assert!(delay.cancel(&StableId(999)).is_none());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn drain_ready_before_delay() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(105);
+        assert!(ready.is_empty());
+        assert_eq!(delay.len(), 1, "entry should remain pending");
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn drain_ready_at_exact_tick() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(106);
+        assert_eq!(ready.len(), 1);
+        assert_eq!(ready[0].stable_id, StableId(1));
+        assert!(delay.is_empty());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn drain_ready_past_tick() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(200);
+        assert_eq!(ready.len(), 1);
+        assert!(delay.is_empty());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn drain_ready_partial_mixed_triggers() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let t1 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let t2 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t1,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 103, // Urgent: 3 ticks from tick 100
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Urgent,
+        });
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t2,
+            stable_id: StableId(2),
+            position: TilePosition::new(10, 10, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106, // Normal: 6 ticks from tick 100
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        // Tick 103: only urgent should drain
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(103);
+        assert_eq!(ready.len(), 1);
+        assert_eq!(ready[0].stable_id, StableId(1));
+        assert_eq!(delay.len(), 1);
+
+        // Tick 106: normal should drain
+        let ready = delay.drain_ready(106);
+        assert_eq!(ready.len(), 1);
+        assert_eq!(ready[0].stable_id, StableId(2));
+        assert!(delay.is_empty());
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn is_pending_checks_stable_id() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let t1 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let t2 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+
+        let mut delay = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t1,
+            stable_id: StableId(1),
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        assert!(delay.is_pending(&StableId(1)));
+        assert!(!delay.is_pending(&StableId(2)));
+
+        delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t2,
+            stable_id: StableId(2),
+            position: TilePosition::new(10, 10, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+
+        assert!(delay.is_pending(&StableId(1)));
+        assert!(delay.is_pending(&StableId(2)));
+    }
+
+    // --- process_cognitive_delay system ---
+
+    #[test]
+    fn process_emits_knowledge_event_on_expiry() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let mut registry = EntityRegistry::new(0);
+
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let target_sid = registry.register(target);
+
+        let mut cd = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        cd.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: target_sid,
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+        world.spawn((KnowledgeGraph::new(), cd));
+
+        world.insert_resource(registry);
+        world.init_resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 106;
+            t
+        });
+
+        let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
+        schedule.add_systems(process_cognitive_delay);
+        schedule.run(&mut world);
+
+        let queue = world.resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        assert_eq!(queue.len(), 1, "should emit one KnowledgeEvent on expiry");
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn process_does_not_emit_before_delay() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let mut registry = EntityRegistry::new(0);
+
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let target_sid = registry.register(target);
+
+        let mut cd = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        cd.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: target_sid,
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+        world.spawn((KnowledgeGraph::new(), cd));
+
+        world.insert_resource(registry);
+        world.init_resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 105;
+            t
+        });
+
+        let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
+        schedule.add_systems(process_cognitive_delay);
+        schedule.run(&mut world);
+
+        let queue = world.resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        assert!(queue.is_empty(), "should not emit before delay expires");
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn process_urgent_resolves_faster() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let mut registry = EntityRegistry::new(0);
+
+        let t1 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let t1_sid = registry.register(t1);
+        let t2 = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let t2_sid = registry.register(t2);
+
+        let mut cd = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        cd.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t1,
+            stable_id: t1_sid,
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 103, // Urgent
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Urgent,
+        });
+        cd.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target: t2,
+            stable_id: t2_sid,
+            position: TilePosition::new(10, 10, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106, // Normal
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+        world.spawn((KnowledgeGraph::new(), cd));
+
+        world.insert_resource(registry);
+        world.init_resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 103;
+            t
+        });
+
+        let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
+        schedule.add_systems(process_cognitive_delay);
+        schedule.run(&mut world);
+
+        let queue = world.resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        assert_eq!(queue.len(), 1, "only urgent should resolve at tick 103");
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn process_no_crash_without_pending() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        world.spawn((KnowledgeGraph::new(), CognitiveDelay::default()));
+        world.init_resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        world.init_resource::<SimulationTime>();
+
+        let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
+        schedule.add_systems(process_cognitive_delay);
+        schedule.run(&mut world); // Should not panic
+    }
+
+    #[test]
+    fn process_clears_pending_after_drain() {
+        let mut world = World::new();
+        let mut registry = EntityRegistry::new(0);
+
+        let target = world.spawn_empty().id();
+        let target_sid = registry.register(target);
+
+        let mut cd = CognitiveDelay::default();
+        cd.push(PendingRecognition {
+            target,
+            stable_id: target_sid,
+            position: TilePosition::new(5, 5, 0),
+            delay_until_tick: 106,
+            trigger: RecognitionTrigger::Normal,
+        });
+        let observer = world.spawn((KnowledgeGraph::new(), cd)).id();
+
+        world.insert_resource(registry);
+        world.init_resource::<KnowledgeEventQueue>();
+        world.insert_resource({
+            let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+            t.tick = 106;
+            t
+        });
+
+        let mut schedule = bevy_ecs::schedule::Schedule::default();
+        schedule.add_systems(process_cognitive_delay);
+        schedule.run(&mut world);
+
+        let cd = world.entity(observer).get::<CognitiveDelay>().unwrap();
+        assert!(cd.is_empty(), "pending should be cleared after drain");
+    }
+}
diff --git a/server/src/perception/mod.rs b/server/src/perception/mod.rs
index 472b86ae1..b182770f3 100644
--- a/server/src/perception/mod.rs
+++ b/server/src/perception/mod.rs
@@ -5,6 +5,7 @@
 use bevy_app::prelude::*;
 use bevy_ecs::schedule::IntoScheduleConfigs;
 
+pub mod cognitive_delay;
 pub mod interpretation;
 pub mod observation;
 pub mod observer;
@@ -23,9 +24,14 @@ impl Plugin for PerceptionPlugin {
             .init_resource::<query::ActivePerceptionMode>()
             .add_systems(
                 Update,
-                interpretation::generate_observation_events
-                    .after(observation::emit_observation_events)
-                    .before(crate::knowledge::events::process_knowledge_events),
+                (
+                    cognitive_delay::process_cognitive_delay
+                        .after(observation::emit_observation_events)
+                        .before(crate::knowledge::events::process_knowledge_events),
+                    interpretation::generate_observation_events
+                        .after(observation::emit_observation_events)
+                        .before(crate::knowledge::events::process_knowledge_events),
+                ),
             );
         tracing::debug!("PerceptionPlugin initialized");
     }
diff --git a/server/src/perception/observation.rs b/server/src/perception/observation.rs
index 35a480100..a2bdd9902 100644
--- a/server/src/perception/observation.rs
+++ b/server/src/perception/observation.rs
@@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ use crate::bridge::types::*;
 use crate::knowledge::{
     EntityRegistry, KnowledgeEvent, KnowledgeEventQueue, KnowledgeEventType, KnowledgeGraph,
 };
+use crate::perception::cognitive_delay::{CognitiveDelay, PendingRecognition, RecognitionTrigger};
 use crate::simulation::movement::{PlayerCharacter, TilePosition};
 use crate::simulation::time::SimulationTime;
 
@@ -21,7 +22,10 @@ pub fn emit_observation_events(
     time: Res<SimulationTime>,
     buffer: Res<SnapshotBuffer>,
     registry: Res<EntityRegistry>,
-    observer_query: Query<(Entity, &KnowledgeGraph), With<PlayerCharacter>>,
+    mut observer_query: Query<
+        (Entity, &KnowledgeGraph, Option<&mut CognitiveDelay>),
+        With<PlayerCharacter>,
+    >,
     mut event_queue: ResMut<KnowledgeEventQueue>,
     entity_positions: Query<&TilePosition>,
 ) {
@@ -29,7 +33,8 @@ pub fn emit_observation_events(
         return;
     };
 
-    let Ok((observer_entity, observer_kg)) = observer_query.single() else {
+    let Ok((observer_entity, observer_kg, mut cognitive_delay)) = observer_query.single_mut()
+    else {
         return;
     };
 
@@ -41,7 +46,9 @@ pub fn emit_observation_events(
         .map(|e| e.entity_id)
         .collect();
 
-    // Emit DirectObservation for each visible non-player entity
+    // Emit DirectObservation for each visible non-player entity.
+    // NEW entities (not in observer's KG) are routed through cognitive delay
+    // when the CognitiveDelay component is present (#423, D-060).
     for visible in &snapshot.entities {
         if matches!(visible.kind, EntityKind::Player) {
             continue;
@@ -54,7 +61,43 @@ pub fn emit_observation_events(
         };
 
         // Get tile position for knowledge tracking
-        if let Ok(pos) = entity_positions.get(entity) {
+        let Ok(pos) = entity_positions.get(entity) else {
+            continue;
+        };
+
+        if observer_kg.knows_entity(&stable_id) {
+            // Known entity: immediate DirectObservation (position update)
+            event_queue.push(KnowledgeEvent {
+                observer: observer_entity,
+                tick: time.tick,
+                event_type: KnowledgeEventType::DirectObservation {
+                    target: entity,
+                    position: *pos,
+                },
+            });
+        } else if let Some(ref mut delay) = cognitive_delay {
+            // New entity + cognitive delay available: buffer recognition
+            if !delay.is_pending(&stable_id) {
+                // TODO: wire RecognitionTrigger::Urgent for observe_anomaly triggers
+                let trigger = RecognitionTrigger::Normal;
+                delay.push(PendingRecognition {
+                    target: entity,
+                    stable_id,
+                    position: *pos,
+                    delay_until_tick: time.tick + trigger.delay_ticks(),
+                    trigger,
+                });
+                tracing::debug!(
+                    "Cognitive delay queued: stable_id={}, position=({},{},{}), delay_until={}",
+                    stable_id.0,
+                    pos.x,
+                    pos.y,
+                    pos.z,
+                    time.tick + trigger.delay_ticks(),
+                );
+            }
+        } else {
+            // No CognitiveDelay component: immediate (backward compat)
             event_queue.push(KnowledgeEvent {
                 observer: observer_entity,
                 tick: time.tick,
@@ -83,6 +126,20 @@ pub fn emit_observation_events(
             }
         }
     }
+
+    // Cancel pending cognitive delays for entities that left perception range.
+    // Without this, a delay could expire and emit a DirectObservation for an
+    // entity that is no longer visible (stale position, 1-tick flash).
+    if let Some(ref mut delay) = cognitive_delay {
+        let pending_ids: Vec<crate::knowledge::types::StableId> =
+            delay.pending().iter().map(|p| p.stable_id).collect();
+        for sid in pending_ids {
+            if !visible_stable_ids.contains(&sid.0) {
+                delay.cancel(&sid);
+                tracing::debug!("Cognitive delay cancelled: stable_id={} left LOS", sid.0);
+            }
+        }
+    }
 }
 
 #[cfg(test)]
@@ -124,9 +181,7 @@ mod tests {
             .id();
         registry.register(player);
 
-        let npc = world
-            .spawn((Npc, TilePosition::new(16, 14, 0)))
-            .id();
+        let npc = world.spawn((Npc, TilePosition::new(16, 14, 0))).id();
         registry.register(npc);
 
         world.insert_resource(registry);
@@ -152,9 +207,7 @@ mod tests {
         let mut world = setup_world(32, 32);
         let mut registry = EntityRegistry::new(0);
 
-        let npc = world
-            .spawn((Npc, TilePosition::new(16, 14, 0)))
-            .id();
+        let npc = world.spawn((Npc, TilePosition::new(16, 14, 0))).id();
         let npc_sid = registry.register(npc);
 
         // Player with pre-existing Direct knowledge of NPC
@@ -195,7 +248,10 @@ mod tests {
                 KnowledgeEventType::LeftLOS { target } if target == npc
             )
         });
-        assert!(has_left_los, "should emit LeftLOS when NPC is no longer visible");
+        assert!(
+            has_left_los,
+            "should emit LeftLOS when NPC is no longer visible"
+        );
     }
 
     #[test]
diff --git a/server/src/perception/observer/mod.rs b/server/src/perception/observer/mod.rs
index cd80ec780..e39429eb2 100644
--- a/server/src/perception/observer/mod.rs
+++ b/server/src/perception/observer/mod.rs
@@ -12,6 +12,7 @@ use std::collections::HashSet;
 use crate::bridge::types::*;
 use crate::knowledge::types::KnowledgeState;
 use crate::knowledge::{EntityRegistry, KnowledgeGraph, StableId};
+use crate::perception::cognitive_delay::CognitiveDelay;
 use crate::perception::query::{ActivePerceptionMode, VisibilityGeometry};
 use crate::perception::vision_cone::Facing;
 use crate::simulation::interaction::NearbyInteractionBuffer;
@@ -53,7 +54,18 @@ pub fn compute_observer_snapshot(
     geometry: Res<VisibilityGeometry>,
     registry: Res<EntityRegistry>,
     mut observer_query: Query<
-        (Entity, &TilePosition, Option<&Facing>, &KnowledgeGraph, &mut NearbyInteractionBuffer, &mut MonologueBuffer, Option<&Stance>, Option<&CharacterArchetype>, Option<&mut SprintAnomalyQueue>),
+        (
+            Entity,
+            &TilePosition,
+            Option<&Facing>,
+            &KnowledgeGraph,
+            &mut NearbyInteractionBuffer,
+            &mut MonologueBuffer,
+            Option<&Stance>,
+            Option<&CharacterArchetype>,
+            Option<&mut SprintAnomalyQueue>,
+            Option<&CognitiveDelay>,
+        ),
         With<PlayerCharacter>,
     >,
     all_entities: Query<(
@@ -65,8 +77,18 @@ pub fn compute_observer_snapshot(
     inventory_items: Query<(Entity, &CarriedBy, &ItemName, &InventorySlot)>,
     mut buffer: ResMut<SnapshotBuffer>,
 ) {
-    let Ok((observer_entity, _observer_pos, facing_opt, observer_kg, mut interaction_buffer, mut monologue_buffer, stance_opt, archetype_opt, mut anomaly_queue_opt)) =
-        observer_query.single_mut()
+    let Ok((
+        observer_entity,
+        _observer_pos,
+        facing_opt,
+        observer_kg,
+        mut interaction_buffer,
+        mut monologue_buffer,
+        stance_opt,
+        archetype_opt,
+        mut anomaly_queue_opt,
+        cognitive_delay_opt,
+    )) = observer_query.single_mut()
     else {
         return;
     };
@@ -141,6 +163,27 @@ pub fn compute_observer_snapshot(
 
     let current_monologue = monologue_buffer.take();
 
+    // Build pending recognitions from CognitiveDelay (#423, D-060)
+    let pending_recognitions = cognitive_delay_opt
+        .map(|delay| {
+            delay
+                .pending()
+                .iter()
+                .map(|p| {
+                    let (rx, ry, rz) = p.position.to_render_coords();
+                    PendingRecognitionWire {
+                        entity_id: p.stable_id.0,
+                        x: rx,
+                        y: ry,
+                        z: rz,
+                        remaining_ticks: p.delay_until_tick.saturating_sub(time.tick),
+                        total_delay_ticks: p.trigger.delay_ticks(),
+                    }
+                })
+                .collect()
+        })
+        .unwrap_or_default();
+
     buffer.snapshot = Some(ObserverSnapshot {
         version: crate::bridge::types::PROTOCOL_VERSION,
         tick: time.tick,
@@ -152,6 +195,7 @@ pub fn compute_observer_snapshot(
         visible_tiles: geometry.visible_tiles.clone(),
         nearby_interactions,
         current_monologue,
+        pending_recognitions,
     });
 }
 
@@ -360,13 +404,16 @@ fn apply_phase2_verb_filter(
         // This implements D-057: "Character differentiation via Phase 2 observer
         // filter, not separate verb systems."
         for verb in &mut interaction.verbs {
-            if let Some(label) = archetype_verb_label(archetype, interaction.object_type, verb.kind) {
+            if let Some(label) = archetype_verb_label(archetype, interaction.object_type, verb.kind)
+            {
                 verb.label = label.into();
             }
         }
 
         // Re-sort after priority changes and verb additions
-        interaction.verbs.sort_by_key(|v| (v.priority, v.kind as u8));
+        interaction
+            .verbs
+            .sort_by_key(|v| (v.priority, v.kind as u8));
     }
 }
 
@@ -385,11 +432,17 @@ fn archetype_verb_label(
     match (archetype, object_type, kind) {
         // Smuggler: Container verbs — physical manipulation vocabulary
         (CharacterArchetype::Smuggler, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Open) => Some("Move"),
-        (CharacterArchetype::Smuggler, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Search) => Some("Stash"),
+        (CharacterArchetype::Smuggler, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Search) => {
+            Some("Stash")
+        }
 
         // Detective: Container verbs — investigation vocabulary
-        (CharacterArchetype::Detective, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Open) => Some("Scan"),
-        (CharacterArchetype::Detective, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Search) => Some("Flag"),
+        (CharacterArchetype::Detective, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Open) => {
+            Some("Scan")
+        }
+        (CharacterArchetype::Detective, Some(ObjectType::Container), VerbKind::Search) => {
+            Some("Flag")
+        }
 
         // All other combinations: keep Phase 1 default label
         _ => None,
diff --git a/server/src/perception/observer/tests.rs b/server/src/perception/observer/tests.rs
index a84f1b351..6d6ddcea7 100644
--- a/server/src/perception/observer/tests.rs
+++ b/server/src/perception/observer/tests.rs
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ fn player_always_visible_in_snapshot() {
 
     let buffer = world.resource::<SnapshotBuffer>();
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().expect("snapshot should exist");
-    assert_eq!(snapshot.version, 6);
+    assert_eq!(snapshot.version, PROTOCOL_VERSION);
     assert_eq!(snapshot.entities.len(), 1);
     assert!(matches!(snapshot.entities[0].kind, EntityKind::Player));
     assert_eq!(snapshot.entities[0].observation, EntityVisibility::Visible);
@@ -198,7 +198,10 @@ fn game_time_populated() {
         snapshot.game_time.day_phase,
         crate::simulation::time::DayPhase::Evening
     );
-    assert_eq!(snapshot.game_time.tick_rate, crate::simulation::time::TickRate::Paused);
+    assert_eq!(
+        snapshot.game_time.tick_rate,
+        crate::simulation::time::TickRate::Paused
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -298,7 +301,11 @@ fn remembered_entity_appears_as_ghost() {
         .id();
     registry.register(player);
     world.insert_resource(registry);
-    world.insert_resource({ let mut t = SimulationTime::default(); t.tick = 100; t });
+    world.insert_resource({
+        let mut t = SimulationTime::default();
+        t.tick = 100;
+        t
+    });
 
     run_observer_pipeline(&mut world);
 
@@ -312,13 +319,20 @@ fn remembered_entity_appears_as_ghost() {
         .filter(|e| matches!(e.observation, EntityVisibility::Remembered { .. }))
         .collect();
     assert_eq!(remembered.len(), 1, "should have one remembered entity");
-    assert_eq!(remembered[0].relationship, RelationshipState::PersonOfInterest);
+    assert_eq!(
+        remembered[0].relationship,
+        RelationshipState::PersonOfInterest
+    );
 
     // Remembered entity at last_known_position (16, 28), not actual (16, 30)
     assert_eq!(remembered[0].x, 16.5);
     assert_eq!(remembered[0].y, 28.5);
 
-    if let EntityVisibility::Remembered { confidence, age_ticks } = &remembered[0].observation {
+    if let EntityVisibility::Remembered {
+        confidence,
+        age_ticks,
+    } = &remembered[0].observation
+    {
         assert_eq!(*confidence, KnowledgeConfidence::KnowsDetails);
         assert_eq!(*age_ticks, 50); // tick 100 - last_observed 50
     }
@@ -479,16 +493,19 @@ fn knowledge_without_position_not_shown() {
     // Player knows about NPC but has never seen it (no position)
     let mut kg = KnowledgeGraph::new();
     // Insert knowledge manually without a position
-    kg.entities.insert(npc_sid, crate::knowledge::EntityKnowledge {
-        last_known_position: None,
-        last_observed_tick: 0,
-        last_updated_tick: 50,
-        confidence: KnowledgeConfidence::KnowsOf,
-        source: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeSource::Background,
-        state: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeState::Active,
-        relationship: RelationshipState::PersonOfInterest,
-        known_attributes: std::collections::BTreeMap::new(),
-    });
+    kg.entities.insert(
+        npc_sid,
+        crate::knowledge::EntityKnowledge {
+            last_known_position: None,
+            last_observed_tick: 0,
+            last_updated_tick: 50,
+            confidence: KnowledgeConfidence::KnowsOf,
+            source: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeSource::Background,
+            state: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeState::Active,
+            relationship: RelationshipState::PersonOfInterest,
+            known_attributes: std::collections::BTreeMap::new(),
+        },
+    );
 
     let player = world
         .spawn((
@@ -547,7 +564,9 @@ fn multiple_npcs_in_los_all_visible() {
         .filter(|e| matches!(e.kind, EntityKind::Npc))
         .collect();
     assert_eq!(npcs.len(), 3);
-    assert!(npcs.iter().all(|n| n.observation == EntityVisibility::Visible));
+    assert!(npcs
+        .iter()
+        .all(|n| n.observation == EntityVisibility::Visible));
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -657,9 +676,19 @@ fn snapshot_v6_fields_default_through_pipeline() {
     let buffer = world.resource::<SnapshotBuffer>();
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().expect("snapshot should exist");
 
-    assert_eq!(snapshot.version, 6, "should be protocol v6");
-    assert_eq!(snapshot.player_stance, MovementStance::Walk, "default stance is Walk");
-    assert!(snapshot.player_inventory.is_empty(), "default inventory is empty");
+    assert_eq!(
+        snapshot.version, PROTOCOL_VERSION,
+        "should be current protocol version"
+    );
+    assert_eq!(
+        snapshot.player_stance,
+        MovementStance::Walk,
+        "default stance is Walk"
+    );
+    assert!(
+        snapshot.player_inventory.is_empty(),
+        "default inventory is empty"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -731,8 +760,14 @@ fn phase2_confront_injected_for_npc_with_knows_details() {
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     // Should have Talk, ExamineNpc, AND Confront (Phase 2 injected)
     assert_eq!(interaction.verbs.len(), 3);
-    let confront = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
-    assert!(confront.is_some(), "Confront should be injected for KnowsDetails+");
+    let confront = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
+    assert!(
+        confront.is_some(),
+        "Confront should be injected for KnowsDetails+"
+    );
     assert_eq!(confront.unwrap().priority, 3);
     assert_eq!(confront.unwrap().label, "Confront");
 }
@@ -753,16 +788,19 @@ fn phase2_no_confront_without_knows_details() {
 
     // Player only Suspects this NPC (below KnowsDetails threshold)
     let mut kg = KnowledgeGraph::new();
-    kg.entities.insert(npc_sid, crate::knowledge::EntityKnowledge {
-        last_known_position: Some(TilePosition::new(16, 15, 0)),
-        last_observed_tick: 50,
-        last_updated_tick: 50,
-        confidence: KnowledgeConfidence::Suspects,
-        source: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeSource::Background,
-        state: KnowledgeState::Active,
-        relationship: RelationshipState::Unknown,
-        known_attributes: std::collections::BTreeMap::new(),
-    });
+    kg.entities.insert(
+        npc_sid,
+        crate::knowledge::EntityKnowledge {
+            last_known_position: Some(TilePosition::new(16, 15, 0)),
+            last_observed_tick: 50,
+            last_updated_tick: 50,
+            confidence: KnowledgeConfidence::Suspects,
+            source: crate::knowledge::KnowledgeSource::Background,
+            state: KnowledgeState::Active,
+            relationship: RelationshipState::Unknown,
+            known_attributes: std::collections::BTreeMap::new(),
+        },
+    );
 
     let player = world
         .spawn((
@@ -783,8 +821,14 @@ fn phase2_no_confront_without_knows_details() {
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().unwrap();
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
-    let confront = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
-    assert!(confront.is_none(), "Confront should NOT appear for Suspects confidence");
+    let confront = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
+    assert!(
+        confront.is_none(),
+        "Confront should NOT appear for Suspects confidence"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -827,7 +871,10 @@ fn phase2_no_confront_at_mid_range() {
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     // Mid range: only ExamineNpc, no Talk, no Confront
-    let confront = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
+    let confront = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Confront);
     assert!(confront.is_none(), "Confront requires close range");
 }
 
@@ -954,8 +1001,14 @@ fn phase2_smuggler_relabels_container_verbs() {
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     // Container at close range: Open→"Move", Search→"Stash", Observe stays "Observe"
     let open_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Open);
-    let search_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Search);
-    let observe_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Observe);
+    let search_verb = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Search);
+    let observe_verb = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Observe);
     assert_eq!(open_verb.unwrap().label, "Move", "smuggler Open→Move");
     assert_eq!(search_verb.unwrap().label, "Stash", "smuggler Search→Stash");
     assert_eq!(observe_verb.unwrap().label, "Observe", "Observe unchanged");
@@ -997,7 +1050,10 @@ fn phase2_detective_relabels_container_verbs() {
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     let open_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Open);
-    let search_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Search);
+    let search_verb = interaction
+        .verbs
+        .iter()
+        .find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Search);
     assert_eq!(open_verb.unwrap().label, "Scan", "detective Open→Scan");
     assert_eq!(search_verb.unwrap().label, "Flag", "detective Search→Flag");
 }
@@ -1039,7 +1095,11 @@ fn phase2_default_archetype_is_detective() {
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     // Default = Detective labels
     let open_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Open);
-    assert_eq!(open_verb.unwrap().label, "Scan", "default archetype should use Detective labels");
+    assert_eq!(
+        open_verb.unwrap().label,
+        "Scan",
+        "default archetype should use Detective labels"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1078,7 +1138,11 @@ fn phase2_non_container_keeps_default_labels() {
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     let interaction = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0];
     let read_verb = interaction.verbs.iter().find(|v| v.kind == VerbKind::Read);
-    assert_eq!(read_verb.unwrap().label, "Read", "Readable labels unchanged for smuggler");
+    assert_eq!(
+        read_verb.unwrap().label,
+        "Read",
+        "Readable labels unchanged for smuggler"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1155,8 +1219,7 @@ fn phase2_npc_object_type_is_none() {
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().unwrap();
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     assert_eq!(
-        snapshot.nearby_interactions[0].object_type,
-        None,
+        snapshot.nearby_interactions[0].object_type, None,
         "NPC should have object_type=None"
     );
 }
@@ -1256,7 +1319,11 @@ fn phase2_poi_with_confront_verb_order() {
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().unwrap();
     assert_eq!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
     let verbs = &snapshot.nearby_interactions[0].verbs;
-    assert_eq!(verbs.len(), 3, "POI+KnowsDetails: ExamineNpc + Talk + Confront");
+    assert_eq!(
+        verbs.len(),
+        3,
+        "POI+KnowsDetails: ExamineNpc + Talk + Confront"
+    );
     // POI flips ExamineNpc to priority 1, Talk to 2, Confront at 3
     assert_eq!(verbs[0].kind, VerbKind::ExamineNpc);
     assert_eq!(verbs[0].priority, 1);
@@ -1306,7 +1373,11 @@ fn carried_item_appears_in_snapshot_inventory() {
 
     let buffer = world.resource::<SnapshotBuffer>();
     let snapshot = buffer.snapshot.as_ref().unwrap();
-    assert_eq!(snapshot.player_inventory.len(), 1, "carried item should appear in snapshot");
+    assert_eq!(
+        snapshot.player_inventory.len(),
+        1,
+        "carried item should appear in snapshot"
+    );
     assert_eq!(snapshot.player_inventory[0].name, "Manifest Copy");
     assert_eq!(snapshot.player_inventory[0].slot, 0);
 }
@@ -1380,7 +1451,11 @@ fn multiple_carried_items_sorted_in_snapshot() {
     let player_sid = registry.register(player);
 
     // Spawn 3 v0.1 items in reverse slot order
-    for (slot, name) in [(2, "Personal Comm Log"), (0, "Manifest Copy"), (1, "Corridor Access Token")] {
+    for (slot, name) in [
+        (2, "Personal Comm Log"),
+        (0, "Manifest Copy"),
+        (1, "Corridor Access Token"),
+    ] {
         let item = world
             .spawn((
                 CarriedBy(player_sid),
@@ -1449,7 +1524,10 @@ fn sprint_past_contradicted_npc_queues_anomaly() {
     // Anomaly should be queued
     let mut query = world.query::<&SprintAnomalyQueue>();
     let queue = query.single(&world).unwrap();
-    assert!(queue.has_pending(), "contradicted NPC while sprinting should queue anomaly");
+    assert!(
+        queue.has_pending(),
+        "contradicted NPC while sprinting should queue anomaly"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1488,7 +1566,10 @@ fn walk_past_contradicted_npc_does_not_queue_anomaly() {
 
     let mut query = world.query::<&SprintAnomalyQueue>();
     let queue = query.single(&world).unwrap();
-    assert!(!queue.has_pending(), "walking past contradicted NPC should NOT queue anomaly");
+    assert!(
+        !queue.has_pending(),
+        "walking past contradicted NPC should NOT queue anomaly"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1527,7 +1608,10 @@ fn sprint_past_active_npc_does_not_queue_anomaly() {
 
     let mut query = world.query::<&SprintAnomalyQueue>();
     let queue = query.single(&world).unwrap();
-    assert!(!queue.has_pending(), "sprint past Active NPC should NOT queue anomaly");
+    assert!(
+        !queue.has_pending(),
+        "sprint past Active NPC should NOT queue anomaly"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1612,7 +1696,10 @@ fn sprint_anomaly_without_queue_component_no_crash() {
     run_observer_pipeline(&mut world);
 
     let buffer = world.resource::<SnapshotBuffer>();
-    assert!(buffer.snapshot.is_some(), "snapshot should still be produced");
+    assert!(
+        buffer.snapshot.is_some(),
+        "snapshot should still be produced"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
@@ -1667,12 +1754,18 @@ fn sprint_anomaly_npc_visible_but_interactions_suppressed() {
     assert_eq!(npcs.len(), 1, "NPC should be visible during sprint");
 
     // Interactions should be empty (sprint suppression)
-    assert!(snapshot.nearby_interactions.is_empty(), "sprint suppresses interactions");
+    assert!(
+        snapshot.nearby_interactions.is_empty(),
+        "sprint suppresses interactions"
+    );
 
     // Anomaly should be queued
     let mut query = world.query::<&SprintAnomalyQueue>();
     let queue = query.single(&world).unwrap();
-    assert!(queue.has_pending(), "anomaly should be queued despite interaction suppression");
+    assert!(
+        queue.has_pending(),
+        "anomaly should be queued despite interaction suppression"
+    );
 }
 
 #[test]
diff --git a/server/tests/bridge_ipc.rs b/server/tests/bridge_ipc.rs
index 69e52ddc5..f1aa4eb18 100644
--- a/server/tests/bridge_ipc.rs
+++ b/server/tests/bridge_ipc.rs
@@ -57,6 +57,7 @@ fn snapshot_roundtrip_over_unix_socket() {
             visible_tiles: vec![],
             nearby_interactions: vec![],
             current_monologue: None,
+            pending_recognitions: vec![],
         };
 
         bridge
@@ -119,7 +120,10 @@ fn input_roundtrip_over_unix_socket() {
         },
         PlayerInput {
             tick: 11,
-            action: PlayerAction::Interact { target_entity_id: None, verb: None },
+            action: PlayerAction::Interact {
+                target_entity_id: None,
+                verb: None,
+            },
         },
     ];
 
diff --git a/server/tests/bridge_tcp.rs b/server/tests/bridge_tcp.rs
index 3e980b3d7..bc30231e7 100644
--- a/server/tests/bridge_tcp.rs
+++ b/server/tests/bridge_tcp.rs
@@ -43,6 +43,7 @@ fn snapshot_roundtrip_over_tcp() {
             visible_tiles: vec![],
             nearby_interactions: vec![],
             current_monologue: None,
+            pending_recognitions: vec![],
         };
 
         bridge
@@ -98,7 +99,10 @@ fn input_roundtrip_over_tcp() {
         },
         PlayerInput {
             tick: 11,
-            action: PlayerAction::Interact { target_entity_id: None, verb: None },
+            action: PlayerAction::Interact {
+                target_entity_id: None,
+                verb: None,
+            },
         },
     ];
 
diff --git a/server/tests/gen_fixtures.rs b/server/tests/gen_fixtures.rs
index af7b8c352..73208deb9 100644
--- a/server/tests/gen_fixtures.rs
+++ b/server/tests/gen_fixtures.rs
@@ -33,6 +33,7 @@ fn fixture_snapshot(tick: u64, entities: Vec<VisibleEntity>) -> ObserverSnapshot
         visible_tiles: vec![],
         nearby_interactions: vec![],
         current_monologue: None,
+        pending_recognitions: vec![],
     }
 }
 
@@ -200,6 +201,7 @@ fn generate_msgpack_fixtures() {
         ],
         nearby_interactions: vec![],
         current_monologue: None,
+        pending_recognitions: vec![],
     };
     write_fixture(
         "snapshot_v2_full",
@@ -214,7 +216,10 @@ fn generate_msgpack_fixtures() {
         },
         PlayerInput {
             tick: 0,
-            action: PlayerAction::Interact { target_entity_id: None, verb: None },
+            action: PlayerAction::Interact {
+                target_entity_id: None,
+                verb: None,
+            },
         },
     ];
     write_fixture(
diff --git a/server/tests/serialization.rs b/server/tests/serialization.rs
index 5b6418ec8..e91583325 100644
--- a/server/tests/serialization.rs
+++ b/server/tests/serialization.rs
@@ -22,6 +22,7 @@ fn test_snapshot(tick: u64, entities: Vec<VisibleEntity>) -> ObserverSnapshot {
         visible_tiles: vec![],
         nearby_interactions: vec![],
         current_monologue: None,
+        pending_recognitions: vec![],
     }
 }
 
@@ -86,7 +87,10 @@ fn all_player_action_variants_roundtrip() {
         PlayerAction::MoveNorthwest,
         PlayerAction::MoveSoutheast,
         PlayerAction::MoveSouthwest,
-        PlayerAction::Interact { target_entity_id: None, verb: None },
+        PlayerAction::Interact {
+            target_entity_id: None,
+            verb: None,
+        },
         PlayerAction::UsePerceptionMode("thermal".to_string()),
         PlayerAction::Pause,
         PlayerAction::Unpause,
@@ -134,7 +138,11 @@ fn all_fixtures_deserialize() {
         if name.starts_with("snapshot") {
             let snap = rmp_serde::from_slice::<ObserverSnapshot>(&bytes)
                 .unwrap_or_else(|e| panic!("deserialize snapshot fixture {}: {}", name, e));
-            assert_eq!(snap.version, PROTOCOL_VERSION, "fixture {} has wrong version", name);
+            assert_eq!(
+                snap.version, PROTOCOL_VERSION,
+                "fixture {} has wrong version",
+                name
+            );
         } else if name.starts_with("input_batch") {
             rmp_serde::from_slice::<Vec<PlayerInput>>(&bytes)
                 .unwrap_or_else(|e| panic!("deserialize batch input fixture {}: {}", name, e));
@@ -225,6 +233,7 @@ fn snapshot_v2_fields_roundtrip() {
         ],
         nearby_interactions: vec![],
         current_monologue: None,
+        pending_recognitions: vec![],
     };
 
     let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&snapshot).expect("serialize");
@@ -237,8 +246,14 @@ fn snapshot_v2_fields_roundtrip() {
     assert_eq!(decoded.game_time.tick_rate, TickRate::Paused);
     assert_eq!(decoded.player_facing, FacingDirection::Southeast);
     assert_eq!(decoded.visible_tiles.len(), 2);
-    assert_eq!(decoded.visible_tiles[0].visibility, VisibilitySector::Forward);
-    assert_eq!(decoded.visible_tiles[1].visibility, VisibilitySector::Peripheral);
+    assert_eq!(
+        decoded.visible_tiles[0].visibility,
+        VisibilitySector::Forward
+    );
+    assert_eq!(
+        decoded.visible_tiles[1].visibility,
+        VisibilitySector::Peripheral
+    );
     assert_eq!(decoded.entities[0].visibility, VisibilitySector::Forward);
 }
 
@@ -259,7 +274,11 @@ fn entity_to_bits_roundtrip() {
     for entity in [e1, e2, e3, e4] {
         let bits = entity.to_bits();
         let restored = Entity::from_bits(bits);
-        assert_eq!(entity, restored, "Entity::to_bits() roundtrip failed for {:?}", entity);
+        assert_eq!(
+            entity, restored,
+            "Entity::to_bits() roundtrip failed for {:?}",
+            entity
+        );
     }
 }
 
@@ -268,7 +287,10 @@ fn entity_to_bits_roundtrip() {
 fn protocol_version_constant_matches_snapshot() {
     let snapshot = test_snapshot(0, vec![]);
     assert_eq!(snapshot.version, PROTOCOL_VERSION);
-    assert_eq!(PROTOCOL_VERSION, 6, "bump this assertion when protocol version changes");
+    assert_eq!(
+        PROTOCOL_VERSION, 7,
+        "bump this assertion when protocol version changes"
+    );
 }
 
 /// All FacingDirection variants round-trip
@@ -302,6 +324,7 @@ fn all_facing_direction_variants_roundtrip() {
             visible_tiles: vec![],
             nearby_interactions: vec![],
             current_monologue: None,
+            pending_recognitions: vec![],
         };
         let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&snapshot).expect("serialize");
         let decoded: ObserverSnapshot = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
@@ -412,19 +435,35 @@ fn v5_payload_deserializes_into_v6_struct() {
     // New fields should get their defaults
     assert_eq!(decoded.version, 5, "version field preserved from v5");
     assert_eq!(decoded.tick, 42);
-    assert_eq!(decoded.player_stance, MovementStance::Walk, "missing stance should default to Walk");
-    assert!(decoded.player_inventory.is_empty(), "missing inventory should default to empty");
-    assert!(decoded.current_monologue.is_none(), "missing monologue should default to None");
+    assert_eq!(
+        decoded.player_stance,
+        MovementStance::Walk,
+        "missing stance should default to Walk"
+    );
+    assert!(
+        decoded.player_inventory.is_empty(),
+        "missing inventory should default to empty"
+    );
+    assert!(
+        decoded.current_monologue.is_none(),
+        "missing monologue should default to None"
+    );
+    assert!(
+        decoded.pending_recognitions.is_empty(),
+        "missing pending_recognitions should default to empty"
+    );
 }
 
 /// Full 9-slot inventory roundtrip (D-065: 3x3 grid = 9 slots universal)
 #[test]
 fn snapshot_v6_full_inventory_roundtrip() {
-    let items: Vec<InventoryItem> = (0..9).map(|i| InventoryItem {
-        item_id: 100 + i as u64,
-        name: format!("Item {}", i),
-        slot: i,
-    }).collect();
+    let items: Vec<InventoryItem> = (0..9)
+        .map(|i| InventoryItem {
+            item_id: 100 + i as u64,
+            name: format!("Item {}", i),
+            slot: i,
+        })
+        .collect();
 
     let mut snapshot = test_snapshot(0, vec![]);
     snapshot.player_inventory = items;
@@ -482,7 +521,8 @@ fn all_verb_kind_variants_roundtrip() {
         assert_eq!(decoded.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
         assert_eq!(
             decoded.nearby_interactions[0].verbs[0].kind, kind,
-            "VerbKind::{:?} did not roundtrip", kind
+            "VerbKind::{:?} did not roundtrip",
+            kind
         );
     }
 }
@@ -506,7 +546,11 @@ fn all_object_type_variants_roundtrip() {
     for obj_type in types {
         let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&obj_type).expect("serialize");
         let decoded: ObjectType = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
-        assert_eq!(decoded, obj_type, "ObjectType::{:?} roundtrip failed", obj_type);
+        assert_eq!(
+            decoded, obj_type,
+            "ObjectType::{:?} roundtrip failed",
+            obj_type
+        );
     }
 }
 
@@ -533,7 +577,10 @@ fn verb_kind_confront_roundtrip() {
     let decoded: ObserverSnapshot = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
 
     assert_eq!(decoded.nearby_interactions.len(), 1);
-    assert_eq!(decoded.nearby_interactions[0].verbs[0].kind, VerbKind::Confront);
+    assert_eq!(
+        decoded.nearby_interactions[0].verbs[0].kind,
+        VerbKind::Confront
+    );
     assert_eq!(decoded.nearby_interactions[0].verbs[0].label, "Confront");
 }
 
@@ -541,15 +588,16 @@ fn verb_kind_confront_roundtrip() {
 /// Used in Phase 2 label relabeling — must survive the wire.
 #[test]
 fn all_character_archetype_variants_roundtrip() {
-    let archetypes = [
-        CharacterArchetype::Smuggler,
-        CharacterArchetype::Detective,
-    ];
+    let archetypes = [CharacterArchetype::Smuggler, CharacterArchetype::Detective];
 
     for archetype in archetypes {
         let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&archetype).expect("serialize");
         let decoded: CharacterArchetype = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
-        assert_eq!(decoded, archetype, "CharacterArchetype::{:?} roundtrip failed", archetype);
+        assert_eq!(
+            decoded, archetype,
+            "CharacterArchetype::{:?} roundtrip failed",
+            archetype
+        );
     }
 }
 
@@ -575,7 +623,10 @@ fn nearby_interaction_contradicted_roundtrip() {
     let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&snapshot).expect("serialize");
     let decoded: ObserverSnapshot = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
 
-    assert!(decoded.nearby_interactions[0].contradicted, "contradicted flag should survive roundtrip");
+    assert!(
+        decoded.nearby_interactions[0].contradicted,
+        "contradicted flag should survive roundtrip"
+    );
 }
 
 /// NearbyInteraction.object_type round-trips through MessagePack (#422).
@@ -600,5 +651,8 @@ fn nearby_interaction_object_type_roundtrip() {
     let bytes = rmp_serde::to_vec_named(&snapshot).expect("serialize");
     let decoded: ObserverSnapshot = rmp_serde::from_slice(&bytes).expect("deserialize");
 
-    assert_eq!(decoded.nearby_interactions[0].object_type, Some(ObjectType::Container));
+    assert_eq!(
+        decoded.nearby_interactions[0].object_type,
+        Some(ObjectType::Container)
+    );
 }