## 1. Backend - Repository Creation

- [x] 1.1 Switch clone-based repository creation from mirror clones to normal working clones
- [x] 1.2 Initialize blank repositories with a default branch name
- [x] 1.3 Preserve remote preflight and clear error handling

## 2. Backend - Git Sync Helpers

- [x] 2.1 Update pull behavior to use the current tracked branch when available
- [x] 2.2 Make branch helpers tolerate unborn HEAD in blank repos

## 3. Tests

- [x] 3.1 Add unit coverage for clone creation and blank repo initialization
- [x] 3.2 Add coverage for pull behavior on working clones and blank repos

## 4. Quality Gates

- [x] 4.1 Run targeted API tests