In the world of cyber threats, Mount Locker, also known as AstroLocker, has made waves with its sophisticated ransomware operations. Your task is to delve into their methods, focusing on corporate-style negotiations and the intricacies of their builder and affiliate program. This investigation will unravel the complexities of how they gain initial access, execute their payloads, and maintain persistence. Can you piece together the clues and understand their modus operandi?