docs: clarify opencode install caveats

getBootstrapContent() called fs.existsSync + fs.readFileSync + regex
frontmatter parsing on every agent step with zero caching.  The
experimental.chat.messages.transform hook fires every step in opencode's
agent loop (messages are reloaded from DB each step via
filterCompactedEffect).  A 10-step turn triggered 10 redundant file
reads + 10 regex parses for content that never changes during a session.

Changes:
- Add module-level _bootstrapCache (undefined = not loaded, null = file
  missing) so the first call reads and parses SKILL.md, all subsequent
  calls return the cached string with zero filesystem access
- Cache the null sentinel when SKILL.md is missing, preventing repeated
  fs.existsSync probes
- Add _testing export (resetCache/getCache) for test infrastructure
- Clarify the injection guard comment explaining how it interacts with
  opencode's per-step message reloading
- Add 15 regression tests covering cache behavior, fs call counts,
  injection guard, missing file sentinel, cache reset, and source audit

Fixes #1202

.codex-plugin/plugin.json

@@ -0,0 +1,44 @@
+{
+  "name": "superpowers",
+  "version": "5.0.7",
+  "description": "An agentic skills framework & software development methodology that works: planning, TDD, debugging, and collaboration workflows.",
+  "author": {
+    "name": "Jesse Vincent",
+    "email": "jesse@fsck.com",
+    "url": "https://github.com/obra"
+  },
+  "homepage": "https://github.com/obra/superpowers",
+  "repository": "https://github.com/obra/superpowers",
+  "license": "MIT",
+  "keywords": [
+    "brainstorming",
+    "subagent-driven-development",
+    "skills",
+    "planning",
+    "tdd",
+    "debugging",
+    "code-review",
+    "workflow"
+  ],
+  "skills": "./skills/",
+  "interface": {
+    "displayName": "Superpowers",
+    "shortDescription": "Planning, TDD, debugging, and delivery workflows for coding agents",
+    "longDescription": "Use Superpowers to guide agent work through brainstorming, implementation planning, test-driven development, systematic debugging, parallel execution, code review, and finish-the-branch workflows.",
+    "developerName": "Jesse Vincent",
+    "category": "Coding",
+    "capabilities": [
+      "Interactive",
+      "Read",
+      "Write"
+    ],
+    "defaultPrompt": [
+      "I've got an idea for something I'd like to build.",
+      "Let's add a feature to this project."
+    ],
+    "brandColor": "#F59E0B",
+    "composerIcon": "./assets/superpowers-small.svg",
+    "logo": "./assets/app-icon.png",
+    "screenshots": []
+  }
+}

.opencode/INSTALL.md

@@ -14,10 +14,14 @@ Add superpowers to the `plugin` array in your `opencode.json` (global or project
 }
 ```
 
-Restart OpenCode. That's it — the plugin auto-installs and registers all skills.
+Restart OpenCode. The plugin installs through OpenCode's plugin manager and
+registers all skills.
 
 Verify by asking: "Tell me about your superpowers"
 
+OpenCode uses its own plugin install. If you also use Claude Code, Codex, or
+another harness, install Superpowers separately for each one.
+
 ## Migrating from the old symlink-based install
 
 If you previously installed superpowers using `git clone` and symlinks, remove the old setup:
@@ -46,7 +50,10 @@ use skill tool to load superpowers/brainstorming
 
 ## Updating
 
-Superpowers updates automatically when you restart OpenCode.
+OpenCode installs Superpowers through a git-backed package spec. Some OpenCode
+and Bun versions pin that resolved git dependency in a lockfile or cache, so a
+restart may not pick up the newest Superpowers commit. If updates do not appear,
+clear OpenCode's package cache or reinstall the plugin.
 
 To pin a specific version:
 
@@ -64,6 +71,26 @@ To pin a specific version:
 2. Verify the plugin line in your `opencode.json`
 3. Make sure you're running a recent version of OpenCode
 
+### Windows install issues
+
+Some Windows OpenCode builds have upstream installer issues with git-backed
+plugin specs, including cache paths for `git+https` URLs and Bun not finding
+`git.exe` even when it works in a normal terminal. If OpenCode cannot install
+the plugin, try installing with system npm and pointing OpenCode at the local
+package:
+
+```powershell
+npm install superpowers@git+https://github.com/obra/superpowers.git --prefix "$HOME\.config\opencode"
+```
+
+Then use the installed package path in `opencode.json`:
+
+```json
+{
+  "plugin": ["~/.config/opencode/node_modules/superpowers"]
+}
+```
+
 ### Skills not found
 
 1. Use `skill` tool to list what's discovered

.opencode/plugins/superpowers.js

@@ -46,17 +46,29 @@ const normalizePath = (p, homeDir) => {
   return path.resolve(normalized);
 };
 
+// Module-level cache for bootstrap content.
+// The SKILL.md file does not change during a session, so reading + parsing it
+// once eliminates redundant fs.existsSync + fs.readFileSync + regex work on
+// every agent step.  See #1202 for the full analysis.
+let _bootstrapCache = undefined; // undefined = not yet loaded, null = file missing
+
 export const SuperpowersPlugin = async ({ client, directory }) => {
   const homeDir = os.homedir();
   const superpowersSkillsDir = path.resolve(__dirname, '../../skills');
   const envConfigDir = normalizePath(process.env.OPENCODE_CONFIG_DIR, homeDir);
   const configDir = envConfigDir || path.join(homeDir, '.config/opencode');
 
-  // Helper to generate bootstrap content
+  // Helper to generate bootstrap content (cached after first call)
   const getBootstrapContent = () => {
+    // Return cached result on subsequent calls
+    if (_bootstrapCache !== undefined) return _bootstrapCache;
+
     // Try to load using-superpowers skill
     const skillPath = path.join(superpowersSkillsDir, 'using-superpowers', 'SKILL.md');
-    if (!fs.existsSync(skillPath)) return null;
+    if (!fs.existsSync(skillPath)) {
+      _bootstrapCache = null;
+      return null;
+    }
 
     const fullContent = fs.readFileSync(skillPath, 'utf8');
     const { content } = extractAndStripFrontmatter(fullContent);
@@ -70,7 +82,7 @@ When skills reference tools you don't have, substitute OpenCode equivalents:
 
 Use OpenCode's native \`skill\` tool to list and load skills.`;
 
-    return `<EXTREMELY_IMPORTANT>
+    _bootstrapCache = `<EXTREMELY_IMPORTANT>
 You have superpowers.
 
 **IMPORTANT: The using-superpowers skill content is included below. It is ALREADY LOADED - you are currently following it. Do NOT use the skill tool to load "using-superpowers" again - that would be redundant.**
@@ -79,6 +91,8 @@ ${content}
 
 ${toolMapping}
 </EXTREMELY_IMPORTANT>`;
+
+    return _bootstrapCache;
   };
 
   return {
@@ -98,13 +112,22 @@ ${toolMapping}
     // Using a user message instead of a system message avoids:
     //   1. Token bloat from system messages repeated every turn (#750)
     //   2. Multiple system messages breaking Qwen and other models (#894)
+    //
+    // The hook fires on every agent step (not just every turn) because
+    // opencode's prompt.ts reloads messages from DB each step.  Fresh message
+    // arrays may need injection again, so getBootstrapContent() must not do
+    // repeated disk work.
     'experimental.chat.messages.transform': async (_input, output) => {
       const bootstrap = getBootstrapContent();
       if (!bootstrap || !output.messages.length) return;
       const firstUser = output.messages.find(m => m.info.role === 'user');
       if (!firstUser || !firstUser.parts.length) return;
-      // Only inject once
+
+      // Guard: skip if first user message already contains bootstrap.
+      // This prevents double injection when OpenCode passes an already
+      // transformed in-memory message array through the hook again.
       if (firstUser.parts.some(p => p.type === 'text' && p.text.includes('EXTREMELY_IMPORTANT'))) return;
+
       const ref = firstUser.parts[0];
       firstUser.parts.unshift({ ...ref, type: 'text', text: bootstrap });
     }

.version-bump.json

@@ -3,6 +3,7 @@
     { "path": "package.json", "field": "version" },
     { "path": ".claude-plugin/plugin.json", "field": "version" },
     { "path": ".cursor-plugin/plugin.json", "field": "version" },
+    { "path": ".codex-plugin/plugin.json", "field": "version" },
     { "path": ".claude-plugin/marketplace.json", "field": "plugins.0.version" },
     { "path": "gemini-extension.json", "field": "version" }
   ],

README.md

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 # Superpowers
 
-Superpowers is a complete software development workflow for your coding agents, built on top of a set of composable "skills" and some initial instructions that make sure your agent uses them.
+Superpowers is a complete software development methodology for your coding agents, built on top of a set of composable skills and some initial instructions that make sure your agent uses them.
 
 ## How it works
 
@@ -26,19 +26,21 @@ Thanks!
 
 ## Installation
 
-**Note:** Installation differs by platform. Claude Code or Cursor have built-in plugin marketplaces. Codex and OpenCode require manual setup.
+**Note:** Installation differs by platform. 
 
 ### Claude Code Official Marketplace
 
 Superpowers is available via the [official Claude plugin marketplace](https://claude.com/plugins/superpowers)
 
-Install the plugin from Claude marketplace:
+Install the plugin from Anthropic's official marketplace:
 
 ```bash
 /plugin install superpowers@claude-plugins-official
 ```
 
-### Claude Code (via Plugin Marketplace)
+### Claude Code (Superpowers Marketplace)
+
+The Superpowers marketplace provides Superpowers and some other related plugins for Claude Code.
 
 In Claude Code, register the marketplace first:
 
@@ -52,6 +54,29 @@ Then install the plugin from this marketplace:
 /plugin install superpowers@superpowers-marketplace
 ```
 
+### OpenAI Codex CLI
+
+- Open plugin search interface
+
+```bash
+/plugins
+```
+
+Search for Superpowers
+
+```bash
+superpowers
+```
+
+Select `Install Plugin`
+
+### OpenAI Codex App
+
+- In the Codex app, click on Plugins in the sidebar.
+- You should see `Superpowers` in the Coding section. 
+- Click the `+` next to Superpowers and follow the prompts.
+
+
 ### Cursor (via Plugin Marketplace)
 
 In Cursor Agent chat, install from marketplace:
@@ -62,18 +87,11 @@ In Cursor Agent chat, install from marketplace:
 
 or search for "superpowers" in the plugin marketplace.
 
-### Codex
-
-Tell Codex:
-
-```
-Fetch and follow instructions from https://raw.githubusercontent.com/obra/superpowers/refs/heads/main/.codex/INSTALL.md
-```
-
-**Detailed docs:** [docs/README.codex.md](docs/README.codex.md)
-
 ### OpenCode
 
+OpenCode uses its own plugin install; install Superpowers separately even if you
+already use it in another harness.
+
 Tell OpenCode:
 
 ```
@@ -101,10 +119,6 @@ To update:
 gemini extensions update superpowers
 ```
 
-### Verify Installation
-
-Start a new session in your chosen platform and ask for something that should trigger a skill (for example, "help me plan this feature" or "let's debug this issue"). The agent should automatically invoke the relevant superpowers skill.
-
 ## The Basic Workflow
 
 1. **brainstorming** - Activates before writing code. Refines rough ideas through questions, explores alternatives, presents design in sections for validation. Saves design document.
@@ -156,26 +170,23 @@ Start a new session in your chosen platform and ask for something that should tr
 - **Complexity reduction** - Simplicity as primary goal
 - **Evidence over claims** - Verify before declaring success
 
-Read more: [Superpowers for Claude Code](https://blog.fsck.com/2025/10/09/superpowers/)
+Read [the original release announcement](https://blog.fsck.com/2025/10/09/superpowers/).
 
 ## Contributing
 
-Skills live directly in this repository. To contribute:
+The general contribution process for Superpowers is below. Keep in mind that we don't generally accept contributions of new skills and that any updates to skills must work across all of the coding agents we support.
 
 1. Fork the repository
-2. Create a branch for your skill
-3. Follow the `writing-skills` skill for creating and testing new skills
-4. Submit a PR
+2. Switch to the 'dev' branch
+3. Create a branch for your work
+4. Follow the `writing-skills` skill for creating and testing new and modified skills
+5. Submit a PR, being sure to fill in the pull request template.
 
 See `skills/writing-skills/SKILL.md` for the complete guide.
 
 ## Updating
 
-Skills update automatically when you update the plugin:
-
-```bash
-/plugin update superpowers
-```
+Superpowers updates are somewhat coding-agent dependent, but are often automatic.
 
 ## License
 

assets/superpowers-small.svg

@@ -0,0 +1 @@
+<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><svg id="Calque_1" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"><path d="M394.28,207.8c.81,2.41,1.39,4.78,1.8,7.07,1.61,9.03-.93,17.78-5.99,21.74-22.6,17.7-49.85,29.35-75.34,38.6-.59.22-1.09.28-1.4.34-2.22.47-4.95,1.04-7.25,0-1.46-.66-2.25-1.74-2.66-2.3-1.56-2.1-1.59-4.31-1.56-5.13.1-2.67-.01-4.69,0-4.82.45-3.52.91-10.66,1.41-21.28.6-3.87,2.16-9.63,6.94-13.96,4.01-3.62,8.33-4.6,14.59-5.87,10.76-2.19,37.21-8.22,47.42-16.56,1.63-1.33,2.97-2.65,4.19-3.96,3.72-3.99,6.39-7.92,7.93-10.36,3.22,3.22,7.25,8.48,9.92,16.47Z"/><path d="M428.67,185.28c-2.33,11.99-8.91,22.32-15.88,30.38.27-5.5-.05-12.11-1.86-19.08-5.04-19.36-19.74-34.7-37.78-37.78-32.21-9.74-70.59,3.79-99.08,18.29-3.87,1.95-9.52-2.77-11.84-8.16-3.32-7.71-1.63-6.28,2.61-8.49,38.31-20.03,82.01-39.61,123.91-29.7,8.26,1.95,15.96,5.26,23.48,10.54,11.32,7.96,20.21,24.74,16.44,44Z"/><path d="M117.72,304.2c-.81-2.41-1.39-4.78-1.8-7.07-1.61-9.03.93-17.78,5.99-21.74,22.6-17.7,49.85-29.35,75.34-38.6.59-.22,1.09-.28,1.4-.34,2.22-.47,4.95-1.04,7.25,0,1.46.66,2.25,1.74,2.66,2.3,1.56,2.1,1.59,4.31,1.56,5.13-.1,2.67.01,4.69,0,4.82-.45,3.52-.91,10.66-1.41,21.28-.6,3.87-2.16,9.63-6.94,13.96-4.01,3.62-8.33,4.6-14.59,5.87-10.76,2.19-37.21,8.22-47.42,16.56-1.63,1.33-2.97,2.65-4.19,3.96-3.72,3.99-6.39,7.92-7.93,10.36-3.22-3.22-7.25-8.48-9.92-16.47Z"/><path d="M83.33,326.72c2.33-11.99,8.91-22.32,15.88-30.38-.27,5.5.05,12.11,1.86,19.08,5.04,19.36,19.74,34.7,37.78,37.78,32.21,9.74,70.59-3.79,99.08-18.29,3.87-1.95,9.52,2.77,11.84,8.16,3.32,7.71,1.63,6.28-2.61,8.49-38.31,20.03-82.01,39.61-123.91,29.7-8.26-1.95-15.96-5.26-23.48-10.54-11.32-7.96-20.21-24.74-16.44-44Z"/><ellipse cx="255.16" cy="258.86" rx="28.95" ry="28.76"/></svg>

commands/brainstorm.md

@@ -1,5 +0,0 @@
----
-description: "Deprecated - use the superpowers:brainstorming skill instead"
----
-
-Tell your human partner that this command is deprecated and will be removed in the next major release. They should ask you to use the "superpowers brainstorming" skill instead.

commands/execute-plan.md

@@ -1,5 +0,0 @@
----
-description: "Deprecated - use the superpowers:executing-plans skill instead"
----
-
-Tell your human partner that this command is deprecated and will be removed in the next major release. They should ask you to use the "superpowers executing-plans" skill instead.

commands/write-plan.md

@@ -1,5 +0,0 @@
----
-description: "Deprecated - use the superpowers:writing-plans skill instead"
----
-
-Tell your human partner that this command is deprecated and will be removed in the next major release. They should ask you to use the "superpowers writing-plans" skill instead.

docs/README.opencode.md

@@ -12,10 +12,14 @@ Add superpowers to the `plugin` array in your `opencode.json` (global or project
 }
 ```
 
-Restart OpenCode. The plugin auto-installs via Bun and registers all skills automatically.
+Restart OpenCode. The plugin installs through OpenCode's plugin manager and
+registers all skills.
 
 Verify by asking: "Tell me about your superpowers"
 
+OpenCode uses its own plugin install. If you also use Claude Code, Codex, or
+another harness, install Superpowers separately for each one.
+
 ### Migrating from the old symlink-based install
 
 If you previously installed superpowers using `git clone` and symlinks, remove the old setup:
@@ -78,7 +82,10 @@ Create project-specific skills in `.opencode/skills/` within your project.
 
 ## Updating
 
-Superpowers updates automatically when you restart OpenCode. The plugin is re-installed from the git repository on each launch.
+OpenCode installs Superpowers through a git-backed package spec. Some OpenCode
+and Bun versions pin that resolved git dependency in a lockfile or cache, so a
+restart may not pick up the newest Superpowers commit. If updates do not appear,
+clear OpenCode's package cache or reinstall the plugin.
 
 To pin a specific version, use a branch or tag:
 
@@ -112,6 +119,26 @@ Skills written for Claude Code are automatically adapted for OpenCode:
 2. Verify the plugin line in your `opencode.json` is correct
 3. Make sure you're running a recent version of OpenCode
 
+### Windows install issues
+
+Some Windows OpenCode builds have upstream installer issues with git-backed
+plugin specs, including cache paths for `git+https` URLs and Bun not finding
+`git.exe` even when it works in a normal terminal. If OpenCode cannot install
+the plugin, try installing with system npm and pointing OpenCode at the local
+package:
+
+```powershell
+npm install superpowers@git+https://github.com/obra/superpowers.git --prefix "$HOME\.config\opencode"
+```
+
+Then use the installed package path in `opencode.json`:
+
+```json
+{
+  "plugin": ["~/.config/opencode/node_modules/superpowers"]
+}
+```
+
 ### Skills not found
 
 1. Use OpenCode's `skill` tool to list available skills

docs/superpowers/plans/2026-04-06-worktree-rototill.md

@@ -0,0 +1,879 @@
+# Worktree Rototill Implementation Plan
+
+> **For agentic workers:** REQUIRED SUB-SKILL: Use superpowers:subagent-driven-development (recommended) or superpowers:executing-plans to implement this plan task-by-task. Steps use checkbox (`- [ ]`) syntax for tracking.
+
+**Goal:** Make superpowers defer to native harness worktree systems when available, fall back to manual git worktrees when not, and fix three known finishing bugs.
+
+**Architecture:** Two skill files are rewritten (`using-git-worktrees`, `finishing-a-development-branch`), three files get one-line integration updates (`executing-plans`, `subagent-driven-development`, `writing-plans`). The core change is adding detection (`GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`) and a native-tool-first creation path. These are markdown skill instruction files, not application code — "tests" are agent behavior tests using the testing-skills-with-subagents TDD framework.
+
+**Tech Stack:** Markdown (skill files), bash (test scripts), Claude Code CLI (`claude -p` for headless testing)
+
+**Spec:** `docs/superpowers/specs/2026-04-06-worktree-rototill-design.md`
+
+---
+
+### Task 1: GATE — TDD Validation of Step 1a (Native Tool Preference)
+
+Step 1a is the load-bearing assumption of the entire design. If agents don't prefer native worktree tools over `git worktree add`, the spec fails. Validate this FIRST, before touching any skill files.
+
+**Files:**
+- Create: `tests/claude-code/test-worktree-native-preference.sh`
+- Read: `skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md` (current version, for RED baseline)
+- Read: `tests/claude-code/test-helpers.sh` (for `run_claude`, `assert_contains`, etc.)
+- Read: `skills/writing-skills/testing-skills-with-subagents.md` (TDD framework)
+
+**This task is a gate.** If the GREEN phase fails after 2 REFACTOR iterations, STOP. Do not proceed to Task 2. Report back — the creation approach needs redesign.
+
+- [ ] **Step 1: Write the RED baseline test script**
+
+Create the test script that will run scenarios both WITHOUT and WITH the updated skill text. The RED phase runs against the current skill (which has no Step 1a).
+
+```bash
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Test: Does the agent prefer native worktree tools (EnterWorktree) over git worktree add?
+# Framework: RED-GREEN-REFACTOR per testing-skills-with-subagents.md
+#
+# RED:   Current skill has no native tool preference. Agent should use git worktree add.
+# GREEN: Updated skill has Step 1a. Agent should use EnterWorktree on Claude Code.
+
+set -euo pipefail
+SCRIPT_DIR="$(cd "$(dirname "$0")" && pwd)"
+source "$SCRIPT_DIR/test-helpers.sh"
+
+# Pressure scenario: realistic implementation task where agent needs isolation
+SCENARIO='IMPORTANT: This is a real task. Choose and act.
+
+You need to implement a small feature (add a "version" field to package.json).
+This should be done in an isolated workspace to protect the main branch.
+
+You have the using-git-worktrees skill available. Set up the isolated workspace now.
+Do NOT actually implement the feature — just set up the workspace and report what you did.
+
+Respond with EXACTLY what tool/command you used to create the workspace.'
+
+echo "=== Worktree Native Preference Test ==="
+echo ""
+
+# Phase selection
+PHASE="${1:-red}"
+
+if [ "$PHASE" = "red" ]; then
+    echo "--- RED PHASE: Running WITHOUT Step 1a (current skill) ---"
+    echo "Expected: Agent uses 'git worktree add' (no native tool awareness)"
+    echo ""
+
+    test_dir=$(create_test_project)
+    cd "$test_dir"
+    git init && git commit --allow-empty -m "init"
+    mkdir -p .worktrees
+
+    output=$(run_claude "$SCENARIO" 120)
+
+    echo "Agent output:"
+    echo "$output"
+    echo ""
+
+    # RED expectation: agent uses git worktree add (current behavior)
+    if echo "$output" | grep -qi "EnterWorktree"; then
+        echo "[UNEXPECTED] Agent used EnterWorktree WITHOUT Step 1a — skill may not be needed"
+        echo "Investigate: is Claude Code's default behavior already correct?"
+    else
+        echo "[RED CONFIRMED] Agent did NOT use EnterWorktree"
+        assert_contains "$output" "git worktree" "Agent used git worktree (expected in RED)"
+    fi
+
+    cleanup_test_project "$test_dir"
+
+elif [ "$PHASE" = "green" ]; then
+    echo "--- GREEN PHASE: Running WITH Step 1a (updated skill) ---"
+    echo "Expected: Agent uses EnterWorktree instead of git worktree add"
+    echo ""
+
+    test_dir=$(create_test_project)
+    cd "$test_dir"
+    git init && git commit --allow-empty -m "init"
+
+    output=$(run_claude "$SCENARIO" 120)
+
+    echo "Agent output:"
+    echo "$output"
+    echo ""
+
+    # GREEN expectation: agent uses EnterWorktree
+    assert_contains "$output" "EnterWorktree" "Agent used native EnterWorktree tool"
+    assert_not_contains "$output" "git worktree add" "Agent did NOT fall back to git worktree add"
+
+    cleanup_test_project "$test_dir"
+
+elif [ "$PHASE" = "pressure" ]; then
+    echo "--- PRESSURE PHASE: Multiple pressures to skip native tools ---"
+    echo ""
+
+    PRESSURE_SCENARIO='IMPORTANT: This is a real task. Choose and act.
+
+You need to set up an isolated workspace URGENTLY. Production is impacted and
+the fix needs to go in a worktree. You know git worktree add works reliably.
+The .worktrees/ directory already exists and is gitignored.
+
+You have the using-git-worktrees skill. Set up the workspace NOW.
+Speed matters. Report EXACTLY what tool/command you used.'
+
+    test_dir=$(create_test_project)
+    cd "$test_dir"
+    git init && git commit --allow-empty -m "init"
+    mkdir -p .worktrees
+    echo ".worktrees/" >> .gitignore
+
+    output=$(run_claude "$PRESSURE_SCENARIO" 120)
+
+    echo "Agent output:"
+    echo "$output"
+    echo ""
+
+    # Should STILL use EnterWorktree even under pressure
+    assert_contains "$output" "EnterWorktree" "Agent used native tool even under time pressure"
+    assert_not_contains "$output" "git worktree add" "Agent resisted falling back to git despite pressure"
+
+    cleanup_test_project "$test_dir"
+fi
+
+echo ""
+echo "=== Test Complete ==="
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 2: Run RED phase — confirm agent uses git worktree add today**
+
+Run: `cd tests/claude-code && bash test-worktree-native-preference.sh red`
+
+Expected: `[RED CONFIRMED] Agent did NOT use EnterWorktree` — agent uses `git worktree add` because current skill has no native tool preference.
+
+Document the agent's exact output and any rationalizations verbatim. This is the baseline failure the skill must fix.
+
+- [ ] **Step 3: If RED confirmed, proceed. Write the Step 1a skill text.**
+
+Create a temporary test version of the skill with ONLY the Step 1a addition (minimal change to isolate the variable). Add this section to the top of the skill's creation instructions, BEFORE the existing directory selection process:
+
+```markdown
+## Step 1: Create Isolated Workspace
+
+**You have two mechanisms. Try them in this order.**
+
+### 1a. Native Worktree Tools (preferred)
+
+If your platform provides a worktree or workspace-isolation tool, use it. You know your own toolkit — the skill does not need to name specific tools. Native tools handle directory placement, branch creation, and cleanup automatically.
+
+After using a native tool, skip to Step 3 (Project Setup).
+
+### 1b. Git Worktree Fallback
+
+If no native tool is available, create a worktree manually using git.
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 4: Run GREEN phase — confirm agent now uses EnterWorktree**
+
+Run: `cd tests/claude-code && bash test-worktree-native-preference.sh green`
+
+Expected: `[PASS] Agent used native EnterWorktree tool`
+
+If FAIL: Document the agent's exact output and rationalizations. This is a REFACTOR signal — the Step 1a text needs revision. Try up to 2 REFACTOR iterations. If still failing after 2 iterations, STOP and report back.
+
+- [ ] **Step 5: Run PRESSURE phase — confirm agent resists fallback under pressure**
+
+Run: `cd tests/claude-code && bash test-worktree-native-preference.sh pressure`
+
+Expected: `[PASS] Agent used native tool even under time pressure`
+
+If FAIL: Document rationalizations verbatim. Add explicit counters to Step 1a text (e.g., a Red Flag entry: "Never use git worktree add when your platform provides a native worktree tool"). Re-run.
+
+- [ ] **Step 6: Commit test script**
+
+```bash
+git add tests/claude-code/test-worktree-native-preference.sh
+git commit -m "test: add RED/GREEN validation for native worktree preference (PRI-974)
+
+Gate test for Step 1a — validates agents prefer EnterWorktree over
+git worktree add on Claude Code. Must pass before skill rewrite."
+```
+
+---
+
+### Task 2: Rewrite `using-git-worktrees` SKILL.md
+
+Full rewrite of the creation skill. Replaces the existing file entirely.
+
+**Files:**
+- Modify: `skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md` (full rewrite, 219 lines → ~210 lines)
+
+**Depends on:** Task 1 GREEN passing.
+
+- [ ] **Step 1: Write the complete new SKILL.md**
+
+Replace the entire contents of `skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md` with:
+
+```markdown
+---
+name: using-git-worktrees
+description: Use when starting feature work that needs isolation from current workspace or before executing implementation plans - ensures an isolated workspace exists via native tools or git worktree fallback
+---
+
+# Using Git Worktrees
+
+## Overview
+
+Ensure work happens in an isolated workspace. Prefer your platform's native worktree tools. Fall back to manual git worktrees only when no native tool is available.
+
+**Core principle:** Detect existing isolation first. Then use native tools. Then fall back to git. Never fight the harness.
+
+**Announce at start:** "I'm using the using-git-worktrees skill to set up an isolated workspace."
+
+## Step 0: Detect Existing Isolation
+
+**Before creating anything, check if you are already in an isolated workspace.**
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+BRANCH=$(git branch --show-current)
+```
+
+**Submodule guard:** `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` is also true inside git submodules. Before concluding "already in a worktree," verify you are not in a submodule:
+
+```bash
+# If this returns a path, you're in a submodule, not a worktree — proceed to Step 1
+git rev-parse --show-superproject-working-tree 2>/dev/null
+```
+
+**If `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` (and not a submodule):** You are already in a linked worktree. Skip to Step 3 (Project Setup). Do NOT create another worktree.
+
+Report with branch state:
+- On a branch: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` on branch `<name>`."
+- Detached HEAD: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` (detached HEAD, externally managed). Branch creation needed at finish time."
+
+**If `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (or in a submodule):** You are in a normal repo checkout.
+
+Has the user already indicated their worktree preference in your instructions? If not, ask for consent before creating a worktree:
+
+> "Would you like me to set up an isolated worktree? It protects your current branch from changes."
+
+Honor any existing declared preference without asking. If the user declines consent, work in place and skip to Step 3.
+
+## Step 1: Create Isolated Workspace
+
+**You have two mechanisms. Try them in this order.**
+
+### 1a. Native Worktree Tools (preferred)
+
+If your platform provides a worktree or workspace-isolation tool, use it. You know your own toolkit — the skill does not need to name specific tools. Native tools handle directory placement, branch creation, and cleanup automatically.
+
+After using a native tool, skip to Step 3 (Project Setup).
+
+### 1b. Git Worktree Fallback
+
+If no native tool is available, create a worktree manually using git.
+
+#### Directory Selection
+
+Follow this priority order:
+
+1. **Check existing directories:**
+   ```bash
+   ls -d .worktrees 2>/dev/null     # Preferred (hidden)
+   ls -d worktrees 2>/dev/null      # Alternative
+   ```
+   If found, use that directory. If both exist, `.worktrees` wins.
+
+2. **Check for existing global directory:**
+   ```bash
+   project=$(basename "$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)")
+   ls -d ~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/$project 2>/dev/null
+   ```
+   If found, use it (backward compatibility with legacy global path).
+
+3. **Check your instructions for a worktree directory preference.** If specified, use it without asking.
+
+4. **Default to `.worktrees/`.**
+
+#### Safety Verification (project-local directories only)
+
+**MUST verify directory is ignored before creating worktree:**
+
+```bash
+git check-ignore -q .worktrees 2>/dev/null || git check-ignore -q worktrees 2>/dev/null
+```
+
+**If NOT ignored:** Add to .gitignore, commit the change, then proceed.
+
+**Why critical:** Prevents accidentally committing worktree contents to repository.
+
+Global directories (`~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`) need no verification.
+
+#### Create the Worktree
+
+```bash
+project=$(basename "$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)")
+
+# Determine path based on chosen location
+# For project-local: path="$LOCATION/$BRANCH_NAME"
+# For global: path="~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/$project/$BRANCH_NAME"
+
+git worktree add "$path" -b "$BRANCH_NAME"
+cd "$path"
+```
+
+#### Hooks Awareness
+
+Git worktrees do not inherit the parent repo's hooks directory. After creating the worktree, symlink hooks from the main repo if they exist:
+
+```bash
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+if [ -d "$MAIN_ROOT/.git/hooks" ]; then
+    ln -sf "$MAIN_ROOT/.git/hooks" "$path/.git/hooks"
+fi
+```
+
+This prevents pre-commit checks, linters, and other hooks from silently stopping when work moves to a worktree.
+
+**Sandbox fallback:** If `git worktree add` fails with a permission error (sandbox denial), treat this as a restricted environment. Skip creation, run setup and baseline tests in the current directory, report accordingly.
+
+## Step 3: Project Setup
+
+Auto-detect and run appropriate setup:
+
+```bash
+# Node.js
+if [ -f package.json ]; then npm install; fi
+
+# Rust
+if [ -f Cargo.toml ]; then cargo build; fi
+
+# Python
+if [ -f requirements.txt ]; then pip install -r requirements.txt; fi
+if [ -f pyproject.toml ]; then poetry install; fi
+
+# Go
+if [ -f go.mod ]; then go mod download; fi
+```
+
+## Step 4: Verify Clean Baseline
+
+Run tests to ensure workspace starts clean:
+
+```bash
+# Use project-appropriate command
+npm test / cargo test / pytest / go test ./...
+```
+
+**If tests fail:** Report failures, ask whether to proceed or investigate.
+
+**If tests pass:** Report ready.
+
+### Report
+
+```
+Worktree ready at <full-path>
+Tests passing (<N> tests, 0 failures)
+Ready to implement <feature-name>
+```
+
+## Quick Reference
+
+| Situation | Action |
+|-----------|--------|
+| Already in linked worktree | Skip creation (Step 0) |
+| In a submodule | Treat as normal repo (Step 0 guard) |
+| Native worktree tool available | Use it (Step 1a) |
+| No native tool | Git worktree fallback (Step 1b) |
+| `.worktrees/` exists | Use it (verify ignored) |
+| `worktrees/` exists | Use it (verify ignored) |
+| Both exist | Use `.worktrees/` |
+| Neither exists | Check instruction file, then default `.worktrees/` |
+| Global path exists | Use it (backward compat) |
+| Directory not ignored | Add to .gitignore + commit |
+| Permission error on create | Sandbox fallback, work in place |
+| Tests fail during baseline | Report failures + ask |
+| No package.json/Cargo.toml | Skip dependency install |
+
+## Common Mistakes
+
+### Fighting the harness
+
+- **Problem:** Using `git worktree add` when the platform already provides isolation
+- **Fix:** Step 0 detects existing isolation. Step 1a defers to native tools.
+
+### Skipping detection
+
+- **Problem:** Creating a nested worktree inside an existing one
+- **Fix:** Always run Step 0 before creating anything
+
+### Skipping ignore verification
+
+- **Problem:** Worktree contents get tracked, pollute git status
+- **Fix:** Always use `git check-ignore` before creating project-local worktree
+
+### Assuming directory location
+
+- **Problem:** Creates inconsistency, violates project conventions
+- **Fix:** Follow priority: existing > instruction file > default
+
+### Proceeding with failing tests
+
+- **Problem:** Can't distinguish new bugs from pre-existing issues
+- **Fix:** Report failures, get explicit permission to proceed
+
+## Red Flags
+
+**Never:**
+- Create a worktree when Step 0 detects existing isolation
+- Use git commands when a native worktree tool is available
+- Create worktree without verifying it's ignored (project-local)
+- Skip baseline test verification
+- Proceed with failing tests without asking
+
+**Always:**
+- Run Step 0 detection first
+- Prefer native tools over git fallback
+- Follow directory priority: existing > instruction file > default
+- Verify directory is ignored for project-local
+- Auto-detect and run project setup
+- Verify clean test baseline
+- Symlink hooks after creating worktree via 1b
+
+## Integration
+
+**Called by:**
+- **subagent-driven-development** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
+- **executing-plans** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
+- Any skill needing isolated workspace
+
+**Pairs with:**
+- **finishing-a-development-branch** - REQUIRED for cleanup after work complete
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 2: Verify the file reads correctly**
+
+Run: `wc -l skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md`
+
+Expected: Approximately 200-220 lines. Scan for any markdown formatting issues.
+
+- [ ] **Step 3: Commit**
+
+```bash
+git add skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md
+git commit -m "feat: rewrite using-git-worktrees with detect-and-defer (PRI-974)
+
+Step 0: GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON detection (skip if already isolated)
+Step 0 consent: opt-in prompt before creating worktree (#991)
+Step 1a: native tool preference (short, first, declarative)
+Step 1b: git worktree fallback with hooks symlink and legacy path compat
+Submodule guard prevents false detection
+Platform-neutral instruction file references (#1049)"
+```
+
+---
+
+### Task 3: Rewrite `finishing-a-development-branch` SKILL.md
+
+Full rewrite of the finishing skill. Adds environment detection, fixes three bugs, adds provenance-based cleanup.
+
+**Files:**
+- Modify: `skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md` (full rewrite, 201 lines → ~220 lines)
+
+- [ ] **Step 1: Write the complete new SKILL.md**
+
+Replace the entire contents of `skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md` with:
+
+```markdown
+---
+name: finishing-a-development-branch
+description: Use when implementation is complete, all tests pass, and you need to decide how to integrate the work - guides completion of development work by presenting structured options for merge, PR, or cleanup
+---
+
+# Finishing a Development Branch
+
+## Overview
+
+Guide completion of development work by presenting clear options and handling chosen workflow.
+
+**Core principle:** Verify tests → Detect environment → Present options → Execute choice → Clean up.
+
+**Announce at start:** "I'm using the finishing-a-development-branch skill to complete this work."
+
+## The Process
+
+### Step 1: Verify Tests
+
+**Before presenting options, verify tests pass:**
+
+```bash
+# Run project's test suite
+npm test / cargo test / pytest / go test ./...
+```
+
+**If tests fail:**
+```
+Tests failing (<N> failures). Must fix before completing:
+
+[Show failures]
+
+Cannot proceed with merge/PR until tests pass.
+```
+
+Stop. Don't proceed to Step 2.
+
+**If tests pass:** Continue to Step 2.
+
+### Step 2: Detect Environment
+
+**Determine workspace state before presenting options:**
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+```
+
+This determines which menu to show and how cleanup works:
+
+| State | Menu | Cleanup |
+|-------|------|---------|
+| `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (normal repo) | Standard 4 options | No worktree to clean up |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, named branch | Standard 4 options | Provenance-based (see Step 6) |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, detached HEAD | Reduced 3 options (no merge) | No cleanup (externally managed) |
+
+### Step 3: Determine Base Branch
+
+```bash
+# Try common base branches
+git merge-base HEAD main 2>/dev/null || git merge-base HEAD master 2>/dev/null
+```
+
+Or ask: "This branch split from main - is that correct?"
+
+### Step 4: Present Options
+
+**Normal repo and named-branch worktree — present exactly these 4 options:**
+
+```
+Implementation complete. What would you like to do?
+
+1. Merge back to <base-branch> locally
+2. Push and create a Pull Request
+3. Keep the branch as-is (I'll handle it later)
+4. Discard this work
+
+Which option?
+```
+
+**Detached HEAD — present exactly these 3 options:**
+
+```
+Implementation complete. You're on a detached HEAD (externally managed workspace).
+
+1. Push as new branch and create a Pull Request
+2. Keep as-is (I'll handle it later)
+3. Discard this work
+
+Which option?
+```
+
+**Don't add explanation** - keep options concise.
+
+### Step 5: Execute Choice
+
+#### Option 1: Merge Locally
+
+```bash
+# Get main repo root for CWD safety
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+
+# Merge first — verify success before removing anything
+git checkout <base-branch>
+git pull
+git merge <feature-branch>
+
+# Verify tests on merged result
+<test command>
+
+# Only after merge succeeds: remove worktree, then delete branch
+# (See Step 6 for worktree cleanup)
+git branch -d <feature-branch>
+```
+
+Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 6)
+
+#### Option 2: Push and Create PR
+
+```bash
+# Push branch
+git push -u origin <feature-branch>
+
+# Create PR
+gh pr create --title "<title>" --body "$(cat <<'EOF'
+## Summary
+<2-3 bullets of what changed>
+
+## Test Plan
+- [ ] <verification steps>
+EOF
+)"
+```
+
+**Do NOT clean up worktree** — user needs it alive to iterate on PR feedback.
+
+#### Option 3: Keep As-Is
+
+Report: "Keeping branch <name>. Worktree preserved at <path>."
+
+**Don't cleanup worktree.**
+
+#### Option 4: Discard
+
+**Confirm first:**
+```
+This will permanently delete:
+- Branch <name>
+- All commits: <commit-list>
+- Worktree at <path>
+
+Type 'discard' to confirm.
+```
+
+Wait for exact confirmation.
+
+If confirmed:
+```bash
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+```
+
+Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 6), then force-delete branch:
+```bash
+git branch -D <feature-branch>
+```
+
+### Step 6: Cleanup Workspace
+
+**Only runs for Options 1 and 4.** Options 2 and 3 always preserve the worktree.
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+WORKTREE_PATH=$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+```
+
+**If `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON`:** Normal repo, no worktree to clean up. Done.
+
+**If worktree path is under `.worktrees/` or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`:** Superpowers created this worktree — we own cleanup.
+
+```bash
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+git worktree remove "$WORKTREE_PATH"
+git worktree prune  # Self-healing: clean up any stale registrations
+```
+
+**Otherwise:** The host environment (harness) owns this workspace. Do NOT remove it. If your platform provides a workspace-exit tool, use it. Otherwise, leave the workspace in place.
+
+## Quick Reference
+
+| Option | Merge | Push | Keep Worktree | Cleanup Branch |
+|--------|-------|------|---------------|----------------|
+| 1. Merge locally | yes | - | - | yes |
+| 2. Create PR | - | yes | yes | - |
+| 3. Keep as-is | - | - | yes | - |
+| 4. Discard | - | - | - | yes (force) |
+
+## Common Mistakes
+
+**Skipping test verification**
+- **Problem:** Merge broken code, create failing PR
+- **Fix:** Always verify tests before offering options
+
+**Open-ended questions**
+- **Problem:** "What should I do next?" is ambiguous
+- **Fix:** Present exactly 4 structured options (or 3 for detached HEAD)
+
+**Cleaning up worktree for Option 2**
+- **Problem:** Remove worktree user needs for PR iteration
+- **Fix:** Only cleanup for Options 1 and 4
+
+**Deleting branch before removing worktree**
+- **Problem:** `git branch -d` fails because worktree still references the branch
+- **Fix:** Merge first, remove worktree, then delete branch
+
+**Running git worktree remove from inside the worktree**
+- **Problem:** Command fails silently when CWD is inside the worktree being removed
+- **Fix:** Always `cd` to main repo root before `git worktree remove`
+
+**Cleaning up harness-owned worktrees**
+- **Problem:** Removing a worktree the harness created causes phantom state
+- **Fix:** Only clean up worktrees under `.worktrees/` or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`
+
+**No confirmation for discard**
+- **Problem:** Accidentally delete work
+- **Fix:** Require typed "discard" confirmation
+
+## Red Flags
+
+**Never:**
+- Proceed with failing tests
+- Merge without verifying tests on result
+- Delete work without confirmation
+- Force-push without explicit request
+- Remove a worktree before confirming merge success
+- Clean up worktrees you didn't create (provenance check)
+- Run `git worktree remove` from inside the worktree
+
+**Always:**
+- Verify tests before offering options
+- Detect environment before presenting menu
+- Present exactly 4 options (or 3 for detached HEAD)
+- Get typed confirmation for Option 4
+- Clean up worktree for Options 1 & 4 only
+- `cd` to main repo root before worktree removal
+- Run `git worktree prune` after removal
+
+## Integration
+
+**Called by:**
+- **subagent-driven-development** (Step 7) - After all tasks complete
+- **executing-plans** (Step 5) - After all batches complete
+
+**Pairs with:**
+- **using-git-worktrees** - Cleans up worktree created by that skill
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 2: Verify the file reads correctly**
+
+Run: `wc -l skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md`
+
+Expected: Approximately 210-230 lines.
+
+- [ ] **Step 3: Commit**
+
+```bash
+git add skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md
+git commit -m "feat: rewrite finishing-a-development-branch with detect-and-defer (PRI-974)
+
+Step 2: environment detection (GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON) before presenting menu
+Detached HEAD: reduced 3-option menu (no merge from detached HEAD)
+Provenance-based cleanup: .worktrees/ = ours, anything else = hands off
+Bug #940: Option 2 no longer cleans up worktree
+Bug #999: merge -> verify -> remove worktree -> delete branch
+Bug #238: cd to main repo root before git worktree remove
+Stale worktree pruning after removal (git worktree prune)"
+```
+
+---
+
+### Task 4: Integration Updates
+
+One-line changes to three files that reference `using-git-worktrees`.
+
+**Files:**
+- Modify: `skills/executing-plans/SKILL.md:68`
+- Modify: `skills/subagent-driven-development/SKILL.md:268`
+- Modify: `skills/writing-plans/SKILL.md:16`
+
+- [ ] **Step 1: Update executing-plans integration line**
+
+In `skills/executing-plans/SKILL.md`, change line 68 from:
+
+```markdown
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - REQUIRED: Set up isolated workspace before starting
+```
+
+to:
+
+```markdown
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 2: Update subagent-driven-development integration line**
+
+In `skills/subagent-driven-development/SKILL.md`, change line 268 from:
+
+```markdown
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - REQUIRED: Set up isolated workspace before starting
+```
+
+to:
+
+```markdown
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 3: Update writing-plans context line**
+
+In `skills/writing-plans/SKILL.md`, change line 16 from:
+
+```markdown
+**Context:** This should be run in a dedicated worktree (created by brainstorming skill).
+```
+
+to:
+
+```markdown
+**Context:** If working in an isolated worktree, it should have been created via the using-git-worktrees skill at execution time.
+```
+
+- [ ] **Step 4: Commit all three**
+
+```bash
+git add skills/executing-plans/SKILL.md skills/subagent-driven-development/SKILL.md skills/writing-plans/SKILL.md
+git commit -m "fix: update worktree integration references across skills (PRI-974)
+
+Remove REQUIRED language from executing-plans and subagent-driven-development.
+Consent and detection now live inside using-git-worktrees itself.
+Fix stale 'created by brainstorming' claim in writing-plans."
+```
+
+---
+
+### Task 5: End-to-End Validation
+
+Verify the full rewritten skills work together. Run the existing test suite plus manual verification.
+
+**Files:**
+- Read: `tests/claude-code/run-skill-tests.sh`
+- Read: `skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md` (verify final state)
+- Read: `skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md` (verify final state)
+
+- [ ] **Step 1: Run existing test suite**
+
+Run: `cd tests/claude-code && bash run-skill-tests.sh`
+
+Expected: All existing tests pass. If any fail, investigate — the integration changes (Task 4) may have broken a content assertion.
+
+- [ ] **Step 2: Re-run Step 1a GREEN test**
+
+Run: `cd tests/claude-code && bash test-worktree-native-preference.sh green`
+
+Expected: PASS — agent still uses EnterWorktree with the final skill text (not just the minimal Step 1a addition from Task 1).
+
+- [ ] **Step 3: Manual verification — read both rewritten skills end-to-end**
+
+Read `skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md` and `skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md` in their entirety. Check:
+
+1. No references to old behavior (hardcoded `CLAUDE.md`, interactive directory prompt, "REQUIRED" language)
+2. Step numbering is consistent within each file
+3. Quick Reference tables match the prose
+4. Integration sections cross-reference correctly
+5. No markdown formatting issues
+
+- [ ] **Step 4: Verify git status is clean**
+
+Run: `git status`
+
+Expected: Clean working tree. All changes committed across Tasks 1-4.
+
+- [ ] **Step 5: Final commit if any fixups needed**
+
+If manual verification found issues, fix them and commit:
+
+```bash
+git add -A
+git commit -m "fix: address review findings in worktree skill rewrite (PRI-974)"
+```
+
+If no issues found, skip this step.

docs/superpowers/specs/2026-04-06-worktree-rototill-design.md

@@ -0,0 +1,342 @@
+# Worktree Rototill: Detect-and-Defer
+
+**Date:** 2026-04-06
+**Status:** Draft
+**Ticket:** PRI-974
+**Subsumes:** PRI-823 (Codex App compatibility)
+
+## Problem
+
+Superpowers is opinionated about worktree management — specific paths (`.worktrees/<branch>`), specific commands (`git worktree add`), specific cleanup (`git worktree remove`). Meanwhile, Claude Code, Codex App, Gemini CLI, and Cursor all provide native worktree support with their own paths, lifecycle management, and cleanup.
+
+This creates three failure modes:
+
+1. **Duplication** — on Claude Code, the skill does what `EnterWorktree`/`ExitWorktree` already does
+2. **Conflict** — on Codex App, the skill tries to create worktrees inside an already-managed worktree
+3. **Phantom state** — skill-created worktrees at `.worktrees/` are invisible to the harness; harness-created worktrees at `.claude/worktrees/` are invisible to the skill
+
+For harnesses without native support (Codex CLI, OpenCode, Copilot standalone), superpowers fills a real gap. The skill shouldn't go away — it should get out of the way when native support exists.
+
+## Goals
+
+1. Defer to native harness worktree systems when they exist
+2. Continue providing worktree support for harnesses that lack it
+3. Fix three known bugs in finishing-a-development-branch (#940, #999, #238)
+4. Make worktree creation opt-in rather than mandatory (#991)
+5. Replace hardcoded `CLAUDE.md` references with platform-neutral language (#1049)
+
+## Non-Goals
+
+- Per-worktree environment conventions (`.worktree-env.sh`, port offsetting) — Phase 4
+- PreToolUse hooks for path enforcement — Phase 4
+- Multi-repo worktree documentation — Phase 4
+- Brainstorming checklist changes for worktrees — Phase 4
+- `.superpowers-session.json` metadata tracking (interesting PR #997 idea, not needed for v1)
+- Hooks symlinking into worktrees (PR #965 idea, separate concern)
+
+## Design Principles
+
+### Detect state, not platform
+
+Use `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` to determine "am I already in a worktree?" rather than sniffing environment variables to identify the harness. This is a stable git primitive (since git 2.5, 2015), works universally across all harnesses, and requires zero maintenance as new harnesses appear.
+
+### Declarative intent, prescriptive fallback
+
+The skill describes the goal ("ensure work happens in an isolated workspace") and defers to native tools when available. It prescribes specific git commands only as a fallback for harnesses without native worktree support. Step 1a comes first and names native tools explicitly (`EnterWorktree`, `WorktreeCreate`, `/worktree`, `--worktree`); Step 1b comes second with the git fallback. The original spec kept Step 1a abstract ("you know your own toolkit"), but TDD proved that agents anchor on Step 1b's concrete commands when Step 1a is too vague. Explicit tool naming and a consent-authorization bridge were required to make the preference reliable.
+
+### Provenance-based ownership
+
+Whoever creates the worktree owns its cleanup. If the harness created it, superpowers doesn't touch it. If superpowers created it (via git fallback), superpowers cleans it up. The heuristic: if the worktree lives under `.worktrees/` or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`, superpowers owns it. Anything else (`.claude/worktrees/`, `~/.codex/worktrees/`, `.gemini/worktrees/`) belongs to the harness.
+
+## Design
+
+### 1. `using-git-worktrees` SKILL.md Rewrite
+
+The skill gains three new steps before creation and simplifies the creation flow.
+
+#### Step 0: Detect Existing Isolation
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+BRANCH=$(git branch --show-current)
+```
+
+Three outcomes:
+
+| Condition | Meaning | Action |
+|-----------|---------|--------|
+| `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` | Normal repo checkout | Proceed to Step 0.5 |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, named branch | Already in a linked worktree | Skip to Step 3 (project setup). Report: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` on branch `<name>`." |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, detached HEAD | Externally managed worktree (e.g., Codex App sandbox) | Skip to Step 3. Report: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` (detached HEAD, externally managed)." |
+
+Step 0 does not care who created the worktree or which harness is running. A worktree is a worktree regardless of origin.
+
+**Submodule guard:** `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` is also true inside git submodules. Before concluding "already in a worktree," check that we're not in a submodule:
+
+```bash
+# If this returns a path, we're in a submodule, not a worktree
+git rev-parse --show-superproject-working-tree 2>/dev/null
+```
+
+If in a submodule, treat as `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (proceed to Step 0.5).
+
+#### Step 0.5: Consent
+
+When Step 0 finds no existing isolation (`GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON`), ask before creating:
+
+> "Would you like me to set up an isolated worktree? This protects your current branch from changes. (y/n)"
+
+If yes, proceed to Step 1. If no, work in place — skip to Step 3 with no worktree.
+
+This step is skipped entirely when Step 0 detects existing isolation (no point asking about what already exists).
+
+#### Step 1a: Native Tools (preferred)
+
+> The user has asked for an isolated workspace (Step 0 consent). Check your available tools — do you have `EnterWorktree`, `WorktreeCreate`, a `/worktree` command, or a `--worktree` flag? If YES: the user's consent to create a worktree is your authorization to use it. Use it now and skip to Step 3.
+
+After using a native tool, skip to Step 3 (project setup).
+
+**Design note — TDD revision:** The original spec used a deliberately short, abstract Step 1a ("You know your own toolkit — the skill does not need to name specific tools"). TDD validation disproved this: agents anchored on Step 1b's concrete git commands and ignored the abstract guidance (2/6 pass rate). Three changes fixed it (50/50 pass rate across GREEN and PRESSURE tests):
+
+1. **Explicit tool naming** — listing `EnterWorktree`, `WorktreeCreate`, `/worktree`, `--worktree` by name transforms the decision from interpretation ("do I have a native tool?") into factual lookup ("is `EnterWorktree` in my tool list?"). Agents on platforms without these tools simply check, find nothing, and fall through to Step 1b. No false positives observed.
+2. **Consent bridge** — "the user's consent to create a worktree is your authorization to use it" directly addresses `EnterWorktree`'s tool-level guardrail ("ONLY when user explicitly asks"). Tool descriptions override skill instructions (Claude Code #29950), so the skill must frame user consent as the authorization the tool requires.
+3. **Red Flag entry** — naming the specific anti-pattern ("Use `git worktree add` when you have a native worktree tool — this is the #1 mistake") in the Red Flags section.
+
+File splitting (Step 1b in a separate skill) was tested and proven unnecessary. The anchoring problem is solved by the quality of Step 1a's text, not by physical separation of git commands. Control tests with the full 240-line skill (all git commands visible) passed 20/20.
+
+#### Step 1b: Git Worktree Fallback
+
+When no native tool is available, create a worktree manually.
+
+**Directory selection** (priority order):
+1. Check for existing `.worktrees/` or `worktrees/` directory — if found, use it. If both exist, `.worktrees/` wins.
+2. Check for existing `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/<project>/` directory — if found, use it (backward compatibility with legacy global path).
+3. Check the project's agent instruction file (CLAUDE.md, GEMINI.md, AGENTS.md, .cursorrules, or equivalent) for a worktree directory preference.
+4. Default to `.worktrees/`.
+
+No interactive directory selection prompt. The global path (`~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`) is no longer offered as a choice to new users, but existing worktrees at that location are detected and used for backward compatibility.
+
+**Safety verification** (project-local directories only):
+
+```bash
+git check-ignore -q .worktrees 2>/dev/null
+```
+
+If not ignored, add to `.gitignore` and commit before proceeding.
+
+**Create:**
+
+```bash
+git worktree add "$path" -b "$BRANCH_NAME"
+cd "$path"
+```
+
+**Hooks awareness:** Git worktrees do not inherit the parent repo's hooks directory. After creating a worktree via 1b, symlink the hooks directory from the main repo if one exists:
+
+```bash
+if [ -d "$MAIN_ROOT/.git/hooks" ]; then
+    ln -sf "$MAIN_ROOT/.git/hooks" "$path/.git/hooks"
+fi
+```
+
+This prevents pre-commit checks, linters, and other hooks from silently stopping when work moves to a worktree. (Idea from PR #965.)
+
+**Sandbox fallback:** If `git worktree add` fails with a permission error, treat as a restricted environment. Skip creation, work in current directory, proceed to Step 3.
+
+**Step numbering note:** The current skill has Steps 1-4 as a flat list. This redesign uses 0, 0.5, 1a, 1b, 3, 4. There is no Step 2 — it was the old monolithic "Create Isolated Workspace" which is now split into the 1a/1b structure. The implementation should renumber cleanly (e.g., 0 → "Step 0: Detect", 0.5 → within Step 0's flow, 1a/1b → "Step 1", 3 → "Step 2", 4 → "Step 3") or keep the current numbering with a note. Implementer's choice.
+
+#### Steps 3-4: Project Setup and Baseline Tests (unchanged)
+
+Regardless of which path created the workspace (Step 0 detected existing, Step 1a native tool, Step 1b git fallback, or no worktree at all), execution converges:
+
+- **Step 3:** Auto-detect and run project setup (`npm install`, `cargo build`, `pip install`, `go mod download`, etc.)
+- **Step 4:** Run the test suite. If tests fail, report failures and ask whether to proceed.
+
+### 2. `finishing-a-development-branch` SKILL.md Rewrite
+
+The finishing skill gains environment detection and fixes three bugs.
+
+#### Step 1: Verify Tests (unchanged)
+
+Run the project's test suite. If tests fail, stop. Don't offer completion options.
+
+#### Step 1.5: Detect Environment (new)
+
+Re-run the same detection as Step 0 in creation:
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+```
+
+Three paths:
+
+| State | Menu | Cleanup |
+|-------|------|---------|
+| `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (normal repo) | Standard 4 options | No worktree to clean up |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, named branch | Standard 4 options | Provenance-based (see Step 5) |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, detached HEAD | Reduced menu: push as new branch + PR, keep as-is, discard | No merge options (can't merge from detached HEAD) |
+
+#### Step 2: Determine Base Branch (unchanged)
+
+#### Step 3: Present Options
+
+**Normal repo and named-branch worktree:**
+
+1. Merge back to `<base-branch>` locally
+2. Push and create a Pull Request
+3. Keep the branch as-is (I'll handle it later)
+4. Discard this work
+
+**Detached HEAD:**
+
+1. Push as new branch and create a Pull Request
+2. Keep as-is (I'll handle it later)
+3. Discard this work
+
+#### Step 4: Execute Choice
+
+**Option 1 (Merge locally):**
+
+```bash
+# Get main repo root for CWD safety (Bug #238 fix)
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+
+# Merge first, verify success before removing anything
+git checkout <base-branch>
+git pull
+git merge <feature-branch>
+<run tests>
+
+# Only after merge succeeds: remove worktree, then delete branch (Bug #999 fix)
+git worktree remove "$WORKTREE_PATH"  # only if superpowers owns it
+git branch -d <feature-branch>
+```
+
+The order is critical: merge → verify → remove worktree → delete branch. The old skill deleted the branch before removing the worktree (which fails because the worktree still references the branch). The naive fix of removing the worktree first is also wrong — if the merge then fails, the working directory is gone and changes are lost.
+
+**Option 2 (Create PR):**
+
+Push branch, create PR. Do NOT clean up worktree — user needs it for PR iteration. (Bug #940 fix: remove contradictory "Then: Cleanup worktree" prose.)
+
+**Option 3 (Keep as-is):** No action.
+
+**Option 4 (Discard):** Require typed "discard" confirmation. Then remove worktree (if superpowers owns it), force-delete branch.
+
+#### Step 5: Cleanup (updated)
+
+```
+if GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON:
+    # Normal repo, no worktree to clean up
+    done
+
+if worktree path is under .worktrees/ or ~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/:
+    # Superpowers created it — we own cleanup
+    cd to main repo root       # Bug #238 fix
+    git worktree remove <path>
+
+else:
+    # Harness created it — hands off
+    # If platform provides a workspace-exit tool, use it
+    # Otherwise, leave the worktree in place
+```
+
+Cleanup only runs for Options 1 and 4. Options 2 and 3 always preserve the worktree. (Bug #940 fix.)
+
+**Stale worktree pruning:** After any `git worktree remove`, run `git worktree prune` as a self-healing step. Worktree directories can get deleted out-of-band (e.g., by harness cleanup, manual `rm`, or `.claude/` cleanup), leaving stale registrations that cause confusing errors. One line, prevents silent rot. (Idea from PR #1072.)
+
+### 3. Integration Updates
+
+#### `subagent-driven-development` and `executing-plans`
+
+Both currently list `using-git-worktrees` as REQUIRED in their integration sections. Change to:
+
+> `using-git-worktrees` — Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
+
+The skill itself now handles consent (Step 0.5) and detection (Step 0), so calling skills don't need to gate or prompt.
+
+#### `writing-plans`
+
+Remove the stale claim "should be run in a dedicated worktree (created by brainstorming skill)." Brainstorming is a design skill and does not create worktrees. The worktree prompt happens at execution time via `using-git-worktrees`.
+
+### 4. Platform-Neutral Instruction File References
+
+All instances of hardcoded `CLAUDE.md` in worktree-related skills are replaced with:
+
+> "your project's agent instruction file (CLAUDE.md, GEMINI.md, AGENTS.md, .cursorrules, or equivalent)"
+
+This applies to directory preference checks in Step 1b.
+
+## Bug Fixes (bundled)
+
+| Bug | Problem | Fix | Location |
+|-----|---------|-----|----------|
+| #940 | Option 2 prose says "Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 5)" but quick reference says keep it. Step 5 says "For Options 1, 2, 4" but Common Mistakes says "Options 1 and 4 only." | Remove cleanup from Option 2. Step 5 applies to Options 1 and 4 only. | finishing SKILL.md |
+| #999 | Option 1 deletes branch before removing worktree. `git branch -d` can fail because worktree still references the branch. | Reorder to: merge → verify tests → remove worktree → delete branch. Merge must succeed before anything is removed. | finishing SKILL.md |
+| #238 | `git worktree remove` fails silently if CWD is inside the worktree being removed. | Add CWD guard: `cd` to main repo root before `git worktree remove`. | finishing SKILL.md |
+
+## Issues Resolved
+
+| Issue | Resolution |
+|-------|-----------|
+| #940 | Direct fix (Bug #940) |
+| #991 | Opt-in consent in Step 0.5 |
+| #918 | Step 0 detection + Step 1.5 finishing detection |
+| #1009 | Resolved by Step 1a — agents use native tools (e.g., `EnterWorktree`) which create at harness-native paths. Depends on Step 1a working; see Risks. |
+| #999 | Direct fix (Bug #999) |
+| #238 | Direct fix (Bug #238) |
+| #1049 | Platform-neutral instruction file references |
+| #279 | Solved by detect-and-defer — native paths respected because we don't override them |
+| #574 | **Deferred.** Nothing in this spec touches the brainstorming skill where the bug lives. Full fix (adding a worktree step to brainstorming's checklist) is Phase 4. |
+
+## Risks
+
+### Step 1a is the load-bearing assumption — RESOLVED
+
+Step 1a — agents preferring native worktree tools over the git fallback — is the foundation the entire design rests on. If agents ignore Step 1a and fall through to Step 1b on harnesses with native support, detect-and-defer fails entirely.
+
+**Status:** This risk materialized during implementation. The original abstract Step 1a ("You know your own toolkit") failed at 2/6 on Claude Code. The TDD gate worked as designed — it caught the failure before any skill files were modified, preventing a broken release. Three REFACTOR iterations identified the root causes (agent anchoring on concrete commands, tool-description guardrail overriding skill instructions) and produced a fix validated at 50/50 across GREEN and PRESSURE tests. See Step 1a design note above for details.
+
+**Cross-platform validation:**
+
+As of 2026-04-06, Claude Code is the only harness with an agent-callable mid-session worktree tool (`EnterWorktree`). All others either create worktrees before the agent starts (Codex App, Gemini CLI, Cursor) or have no native worktree support (Codex CLI, OpenCode). Step 1a is forward-compatible: when other harnesses add agent-callable worktree tools, agents will match them against the named examples and use them without skill changes.
+
+| Harness | Current worktree model | Skill mechanism | Tested |
+|---------|----------------------|-----------------|--------|
+| Claude Code | Agent-callable `EnterWorktree` | Step 1a | 50/50 (GREEN + PRESSURE) |
+| Codex CLI | No native tool (shell only) | Step 1b git fallback | 6/6 (`codex exec`) |
+| Gemini CLI | Launch-time `--worktree` flag, no agent tool | Step 0 if launched with flag, Step 1b if not | Step 0: 1/1, Step 1b: 1/1 (`gemini -p`) |
+| Cursor Agent | User-facing `/worktree`, no agent tool | Step 0 if user activated, Step 1b if not | Step 0: 1/1, Step 1b: 1/1 (`cursor-agent -p`) |
+| Codex App | Platform-managed, detached HEAD, no agent tool | Step 0 detects existing | 1/1 simulated |
+| OpenCode | Detection only (`ctx.worktree`), no agent tool | Step 1b git fallback | Untested (no CLI access) |
+
+**Residual risks:**
+1. If Anthropic changes `EnterWorktree`'s tool description to be more restrictive (e.g., "Do not use based on skill instructions"), the consent bridge breaks. Worth filing an issue requesting that the tool description accommodate skill-driven invocation.
+2. When other harnesses add agent-callable worktree tools, they may use names not in Step 1a's list. The list should be updated as new tools appear. The generic phrasing ("a worktree or workspace-isolation tool") provides some forward coverage.
+
+### Provenance heuristic
+
+The `.worktrees/` or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/` = ours, anything else = hands off` heuristic works for every current harness. If a future harness adopts `.worktrees/` as its convention, we'd have a false positive (superpowers tries to clean up a harness-owned worktree). Similarly, if a user manually runs `git worktree add .worktrees/experiment` without superpowers, we'd incorrectly claim ownership. Both are low risk — every harness uses branded paths, and manual `.worktrees/` creation is unlikely — but worth noting.
+
+### Detached HEAD finishing
+
+The reduced menu for detached HEAD worktrees (no merge option) is correct for Codex App's sandbox model. If a user is in detached HEAD for another reason, the reduced menu still makes sense — you genuinely can't merge from detached HEAD without creating a branch first.
+
+## Implementation Notes
+
+Both skill files contain sections beyond the core steps that need updating during implementation:
+
+- **Frontmatter** (`name`, `description`): Update to reflect detect-and-defer behavior
+- **Quick Reference tables**: Rewrite to match new step structure and bug fixes
+- **Common Mistakes sections**: Update or remove items that reference old behavior (e.g., "Skip CLAUDE.md check" is now wrong)
+- **Red Flags sections**: Update to reflect new priorities (e.g., "Never create a worktree when Step 0 detects existing isolation")
+- **Integration sections**: Update cross-references between skills
+
+The spec describes *what changes*; the implementation plan will specify exact edits to these secondary sections.
+
+## Future Work (not in this spec)
+
+- **Phase 3 remainder:** `$TMPDIR` directory option (#666), setup docs for caching and env inheritance (#299)
+- **Phase 4:** PreToolUse hooks for path enforcement (#1040), per-worktree env conventions (#597), brainstorming checklist worktree step (#574), multi-repo documentation (#710)

docs/testing.md

@@ -149,8 +149,8 @@ python3 tests/claude-code/analyze-token-usage.py ~/.claude/projects/<project-dir
 Session transcripts are stored in `~/.claude/projects/` with the working directory path encoded:
 
 ```bash
-# Example for /Users/jesse/Documents/GitHub/superpowers/superpowers
-SESSION_DIR="$HOME/.claude/projects/-Users-jesse-Documents-GitHub-superpowers-superpowers"
+# Example for /Users/yourname/Documents/GitHub/superpowers/superpowers
+SESSION_DIR="$HOME/.claude/projects/-Users-yourname-Documents-GitHub-superpowers-superpowers"
 
 # Find recent sessions
 ls -lt "$SESSION_DIR"/*.jsonl | head -5

scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh

@@ -3,9 +3,9 @@
 # sync-to-codex-plugin.sh
 #
 # Sync this superpowers checkout → prime-radiant-inc/openai-codex-plugins.
-# Clones the fork fresh into a temp dir, rsyncs upstream content, regenerates
-# the Codex overlay file (.codex-plugin/plugin.json) inline, commits, pushes a
-# sync branch, and opens a PR.
+# Clones the fork fresh into a temp dir, rsyncs tracked upstream plugin content
+# (including committed Codex files under .codex-plugin/ and assets/), commits,
+# pushes a sync branch, and opens a PR.
 # Path/user agnostic — auto-detects upstream from script location.
 #
 # Deterministic: running twice against the same upstream SHA produces PRs with
@@ -17,13 +17,11 @@
 #   ./scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh -y                           # skip confirm
 #   ./scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --local PATH                 # existing checkout
 #   ./scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --base BRANCH                # default: main
-#   ./scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --bootstrap --assets-src DIR # create initial plugin
+#   ./scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --bootstrap                  # create plugin dir if missing
 #
-# Bootstrap mode: skips the "plugin must exist on base" check and seeds
-# plugins/superpowers/assets/ from --assets-src <dir> which must contain
-# PrimeRadiant_Favicon.svg and PrimeRadiant_Favicon.png. Run once by one
-# team member to create the initial PR; every subsequent run is a normal
-# (non-bootstrap) sync.
+# Bootstrap mode: skips the "plugin must exist on base" requirement and creates
+# plugins/superpowers/ when absent, then copies the tracked plugin files from
+# upstream just like a normal sync.
 #
 # Requires: bash, rsync, git, gh (authenticated), python3.
 
@@ -38,9 +36,6 @@ DEFAULT_BASE="main"
 DEST_REL="plugins/superpowers"
 
 # Paths in upstream that should NOT land in the embedded plugin.
-# The Codex-only paths are here too — they're managed by generate/bootstrap
-# steps, not by rsync.
-#
 # All patterns use a leading "/" to anchor them to the source root.
 # Unanchored patterns like "scripts/" would match any directory named
 # "scripts" at any depth — including legitimate nested dirs like
@@ -78,62 +73,57 @@ EXCLUDES=(
   "/scripts/"
   "/tests/"
   "/tmp/"
-
-  # Codex-only paths — managed outside rsync
-  "/.codex-plugin/"
-  "/assets/"
 )
 
 # =============================================================================
-# Generated overlay file
+# Ignored-path helpers
 # =============================================================================
 
-# Writes the Codex plugin manifest to "$1" with the given upstream version.
-# Args: dest_path, version
-generate_plugin_json() {
-  local dest="$1"
-  local version="$2"
-  mkdir -p "$(dirname "$dest")"
-  cat > "$dest" <<EOF
-{
-  "name": "superpowers",
-  "version": "$version",
-  "description": "Core skills library for Codex: planning, TDD, debugging, and collaboration workflows.",
-  "author": {
-    "name": "Jesse Vincent",
-    "email": "jesse@fsck.com",
-    "url": "https://github.com/obra"
-  },
-  "homepage": "https://github.com/obra/superpowers",
-  "repository": "https://github.com/obra/superpowers",
-  "license": "MIT",
-  "keywords": [
-    "skills",
-    "planning",
-    "tdd",
-    "debugging",
-    "code-review",
-    "workflow"
-  ],
-  "skills": "./skills/",
-  "interface": {
-    "displayName": "Superpowers",
-    "shortDescription": "Planning, TDD, debugging, and delivery workflows for coding agents",
-    "longDescription": "Use Superpowers to guide agent work through brainstorming, implementation planning, test-driven development, systematic debugging, parallel execution, code review, and finish-the-branch workflows adapted for Codex.",
-    "developerName": "Jesse Vincent",
-    "category": "Coding",
-    "capabilities": [
-      "Interactive",
-      "Read",
-      "Write"
-    ],
-    "brandColor": "#F59E0B",
-    "composerIcon": "./assets/superpowers-small.svg",
-    "logo": "./assets/app-icon.png",
-    "screenshots": []
-  }
+IGNORED_DIR_EXCLUDES=()
+
+path_has_directory_exclude() {
+  local path="$1"
+  local dir
+
+  if [[ ${#IGNORED_DIR_EXCLUDES[@]} -eq 0 ]]; then
+    return 1
+  fi
+
+  for dir in "${IGNORED_DIR_EXCLUDES[@]}"; do
+    [[ "$path" == "$dir"* ]] && return 0
+  done
+
+  return 1
 }
-EOF
+
+ignored_directory_has_tracked_descendants() {
+  local path="$1"
+
+  [[ -n "$(git -C "$UPSTREAM" ls-files --cached -- "$path/")" ]]
+}
+
+append_git_ignored_directory_excludes() {
+  local path
+  local lookup_path
+
+  while IFS= read -r -d '' path; do
+    [[ "$path" == */ ]] || continue
+
+    lookup_path="${path%/}"
+    if ! ignored_directory_has_tracked_descendants "$lookup_path"; then
+      IGNORED_DIR_EXCLUDES+=("$path")
+      RSYNC_ARGS+=(--exclude="/$path")
+    fi
+  done < <(git -C "$UPSTREAM" ls-files --others --ignored --exclude-standard --directory -z)
+}
+
+append_git_ignored_file_excludes() {
+  local path
+
+  while IFS= read -r -d '' path; do
+    path_has_directory_exclude "$path" && continue
+    RSYNC_ARGS+=(--exclude="/$path")
+  done < <(git -C "$UPSTREAM" ls-files --others --ignored --exclude-standard -z)
 }
 
 # =============================================================================
@@ -147,10 +137,9 @@ DRY_RUN=0
 YES=0
 LOCAL_CHECKOUT=""
 BOOTSTRAP=0
-ASSETS_SRC=""
 
 usage() {
-  sed -n 's/^# \{0,1\}//;2,27p' "$0"
+  sed -n '/^# Usage:/,/^# Requires:/s/^# \{0,1\}//p' "$0"
   exit "${1:-0}"
 }
 
@@ -161,7 +150,6 @@ while [[ $# -gt 0 ]]; do
     --local)       LOCAL_CHECKOUT="$2"; shift 2 ;;
     --base)        BASE="$2"; shift 2 ;;
     --bootstrap)   BOOTSTRAP=1; shift ;;
-    --assets-src)  ASSETS_SRC="$2"; shift 2 ;;
     -h|--help)     usage 0 ;;
     *)             echo "Unknown arg: $1" >&2; usage 2 ;;
   esac
@@ -181,19 +169,11 @@ command -v python3 >/dev/null || die "python3 not found in PATH"
 gh auth status >/dev/null 2>&1 || die "gh not authenticated — run 'gh auth login'"
 
 [[ -d "$UPSTREAM/.git" ]]         || die "upstream '$UPSTREAM' is not a git checkout"
-[[ -f "$UPSTREAM/package.json" ]] || die "upstream has no package.json — cannot read version"
+[[ -f "$UPSTREAM/.codex-plugin/plugin.json" ]] || die "committed Codex manifest missing at $UPSTREAM/.codex-plugin/plugin.json"
 
-# Bootstrap-mode validation
-if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
-  [[ -n "$ASSETS_SRC" ]] || die "--bootstrap requires --assets-src <path>"
-  ASSETS_SRC="$(cd "$ASSETS_SRC" 2>/dev/null && pwd)" || die "assets source '$ASSETS_SRC' is not a directory"
-  [[ -f "$ASSETS_SRC/PrimeRadiant_Favicon.svg" ]] || die "assets source missing PrimeRadiant_Favicon.svg"
-  [[ -f "$ASSETS_SRC/PrimeRadiant_Favicon.png" ]] || die "assets source missing PrimeRadiant_Favicon.png"
-fi
-
-# Read the upstream version from package.json
-UPSTREAM_VERSION="$(python3 -c 'import json,sys; print(json.load(open(sys.argv[1]))["version"])' "$UPSTREAM/package.json")"
-[[ -n "$UPSTREAM_VERSION" ]] || die "could not read 'version' from upstream package.json"
+# Read the upstream version from the committed Codex manifest.
+UPSTREAM_VERSION="$(python3 -c 'import json,sys; print(json.load(open(sys.argv[1]))["version"])' "$UPSTREAM/.codex-plugin/plugin.json")"
+[[ -n "$UPSTREAM_VERSION" ]] || die "could not read 'version' from committed Codex manifest"
 
 UPSTREAM_BRANCH="$(cd "$UPSTREAM" && git branch --show-current)"
 UPSTREAM_SHA="$(cd "$UPSTREAM" && git rev-parse HEAD)"
@@ -224,7 +204,9 @@ fi
 
 CLEANUP_DIR=""
 cleanup() {
-  [[ -n "$CLEANUP_DIR" ]] && rm -rf "$CLEANUP_DIR"
+  if [[ -n "$CLEANUP_DIR" ]]; then
+    rm -rf "$CLEANUP_DIR"
+  fi
 }
 trap cleanup EXIT
 
@@ -239,22 +221,84 @@ else
 fi
 
 DEST="$DEST_REPO/$DEST_REL"
+PREVIEW_REPO="$DEST_REPO"
+PREVIEW_DEST="$DEST"
 
-# Checkout base branch
-cd "$DEST_REPO"
-git checkout -q "$BASE" 2>/dev/null || die "base branch '$BASE' doesn't exist in $FORK"
+overlay_destination_paths() {
+  local repo="$1"
+  local path
+  local source_path
+  local preview_path
 
-# Plugin-existence check depends on mode
-if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
-  [[ ! -d "$DEST" ]] || die "--bootstrap but base branch '$BASE' already has '$DEST_REL/' — use normal sync instead"
-  mkdir -p "$DEST"
-else
-  [[ -d "$DEST" ]] || die "base branch '$BASE' has no '$DEST_REL/' — use --bootstrap + --assets-src, or pass --base <branch>"
-fi
+  while IFS= read -r -d '' path; do
+    source_path="$repo/$path"
+    preview_path="$PREVIEW_REPO/$path"
 
-# =============================================================================
-# Create sync branch
-# =============================================================================
+    if [[ -e "$source_path" ]]; then
+      mkdir -p "$(dirname "$preview_path")"
+      cp -R "$source_path" "$preview_path"
+    else
+      rm -rf "$preview_path"
+    fi
+  done
+}
+
+copy_local_destination_overlay() {
+  overlay_destination_paths "$DEST_REPO" < <(
+    git -C "$DEST_REPO" diff --name-only -z -- "$DEST_REL"
+  )
+  overlay_destination_paths "$DEST_REPO" < <(
+    git -C "$DEST_REPO" diff --cached --name-only -z -- "$DEST_REL"
+  )
+  overlay_destination_paths "$DEST_REPO" < <(
+    git -C "$DEST_REPO" ls-files --others --exclude-standard -z -- "$DEST_REL"
+  )
+  overlay_destination_paths "$DEST_REPO" < <(
+    git -C "$DEST_REPO" ls-files --others --ignored --exclude-standard -z -- "$DEST_REL"
+  )
+}
+
+local_checkout_has_uncommitted_destination_changes() {
+  [[ -n "$(git -C "$DEST_REPO" status --porcelain=1 --untracked-files=all --ignored=matching -- "$DEST_REL")" ]]
+}
+
+prepare_preview_checkout() {
+  if [[ -n "$LOCAL_CHECKOUT" ]]; then
+    [[ -n "$CLEANUP_DIR" ]] || CLEANUP_DIR="$(mktemp -d)"
+    PREVIEW_REPO="$CLEANUP_DIR/preview"
+    git clone -q --no-local "$DEST_REPO" "$PREVIEW_REPO"
+    PREVIEW_DEST="$PREVIEW_REPO/$DEST_REL"
+  fi
+
+  git -C "$PREVIEW_REPO" checkout -q "$BASE" 2>/dev/null || die "base branch '$BASE' doesn't exist in $FORK"
+  if [[ -n "$LOCAL_CHECKOUT" ]]; then
+    copy_local_destination_overlay
+  fi
+  if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -ne 1 ]]; then
+    [[ -d "$PREVIEW_DEST" ]] || die "base branch '$BASE' has no '$DEST_REL/' — use --bootstrap, or pass --base <branch>"
+  fi
+}
+
+prepare_apply_checkout() {
+  git -C "$DEST_REPO" checkout -q "$BASE" 2>/dev/null || die "base branch '$BASE' doesn't exist in $FORK"
+  if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -ne 1 ]]; then
+    [[ -d "$DEST" ]] || die "base branch '$BASE' has no '$DEST_REL/' — use --bootstrap, or pass --base <branch>"
+  fi
+}
+
+apply_to_preview_checkout() {
+  if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
+    mkdir -p "$PREVIEW_DEST"
+  fi
+
+  rsync "${RSYNC_ARGS[@]}" "$UPSTREAM/" "$PREVIEW_DEST/"
+}
+
+preview_checkout_has_changes() {
+  [[ -n "$(git -C "$PREVIEW_REPO" status --porcelain "$DEST_REL")" ]]
+}
+
+prepare_preview_checkout
 
 TIMESTAMP="$(date -u +%Y%m%d-%H%M%S)"
 if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
@@ -262,14 +306,15 @@ if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
 else
   SYNC_BRANCH="sync/superpowers-${UPSTREAM_SHORT}-${TIMESTAMP}"
 fi
-git checkout -q -b "$SYNC_BRANCH"
 
 # =============================================================================
 # Build rsync args
 # =============================================================================
 
-RSYNC_ARGS=(-av --delete)
+RSYNC_ARGS=(-av --delete --delete-excluded)
 for pat in "${EXCLUDES[@]}"; do RSYNC_ARGS+=(--exclude="$pat"); done
+append_git_ignored_directory_excludes
+append_git_ignored_file_excludes
 
 # =============================================================================
 # Dry run preview (always shown)
@@ -282,20 +327,13 @@ echo "Fork:     $FORK"
 echo "Base:     $BASE"
 echo "Branch:   $SYNC_BRANCH"
 if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
-  echo "Mode:     BOOTSTRAP (creating initial plugin from scratch)"
-  echo "Assets:   $ASSETS_SRC"
+  echo "Mode:     BOOTSTRAP (creating plugins/superpowers/ when absent)"
 fi
 echo ""
 echo "=== Preview (rsync --dry-run) ==="
-rsync "${RSYNC_ARGS[@]}" --dry-run --itemize-changes "$UPSTREAM/" "$DEST/"
+rsync "${RSYNC_ARGS[@]}" --dry-run --itemize-changes "$UPSTREAM/" "$PREVIEW_DEST/"
 echo "=== End preview ==="
 echo ""
-echo "Overlay file (.codex-plugin/plugin.json) will be regenerated with"
-echo "version $UPSTREAM_VERSION regardless of rsync output."
-if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
-  echo "Assets (superpowers-small.svg, app-icon.png) will be seeded from:"
-  echo "  $ASSETS_SRC"
-fi
 
 if [[ $DRY_RUN -eq 1 ]]; then
   echo ""
@@ -311,18 +349,26 @@ echo ""
 confirm "Apply changes, push branch, and open PR?" || { echo "Aborted."; exit 1; }
 
 echo ""
-echo "Syncing upstream content..."
-rsync "${RSYNC_ARGS[@]}" "$UPSTREAM/" "$DEST/"
+if [[ -n "$LOCAL_CHECKOUT" ]]; then
+  if local_checkout_has_uncommitted_destination_changes; then
+    die "local checkout has uncommitted changes under '$DEST_REL' — commit, stash, or discard them before syncing"
+  fi
 
-if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
-  echo "Seeding brand assets..."
-  mkdir -p "$DEST/assets"
-  cp "$ASSETS_SRC/PrimeRadiant_Favicon.svg" "$DEST/assets/superpowers-small.svg"
-  cp "$ASSETS_SRC/PrimeRadiant_Favicon.png" "$DEST/assets/app-icon.png"
+  apply_to_preview_checkout
+  if ! preview_checkout_has_changes; then
+    echo "No changes — embedded plugin was already in sync with upstream $UPSTREAM_SHORT (v$UPSTREAM_VERSION)."
+    exit 0
+  fi
 fi
 
-echo "Regenerating overlay file..."
-generate_plugin_json "$DEST/.codex-plugin/plugin.json" "$UPSTREAM_VERSION"
+prepare_apply_checkout
+cd "$DEST_REPO"
+git checkout -q -b "$SYNC_BRANCH"
+echo "Syncing upstream content..."
+if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
+  mkdir -p "$DEST"
+fi
+rsync "${RSYNC_ARGS[@]}" "$UPSTREAM/" "$DEST/"
 
 # Bail early if nothing actually changed
 cd "$DEST_REPO"
@@ -341,16 +387,18 @@ if [[ $BOOTSTRAP -eq 1 ]]; then
   COMMIT_TITLE="bootstrap superpowers v$UPSTREAM_VERSION from upstream main @ $UPSTREAM_SHORT"
   PR_BODY="Initial bootstrap of the superpowers plugin from upstream \`main\` @ \`$UPSTREAM_SHORT\` (v$UPSTREAM_VERSION).
 
-Creates \`plugins/superpowers/\` from scratch: upstream content via rsync, \`.codex-plugin/plugin.json\` regenerated inline, brand assets seeded from a local Brand Assets directory.
+Creates \`plugins/superpowers/\` by copying the tracked plugin files from upstream, including \`.codex-plugin/plugin.json\` and \`assets/\`.
 
-Run via: \`scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --bootstrap --assets-src <path>\`
+Run via: \`scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh --bootstrap\`
 Upstream commit: https://github.com/obra/superpowers/commit/$UPSTREAM_SHA
 
-This is a one-time bootstrap. Subsequent syncs will be normal (non-bootstrap) runs and will not touch the \`assets/\` directory."
+This is a one-time bootstrap. Subsequent syncs will be normal (non-bootstrap) runs using the same tracked upstream plugin files."
 else
   COMMIT_TITLE="sync superpowers v$UPSTREAM_VERSION from upstream main @ $UPSTREAM_SHORT"
   PR_BODY="Automated sync from superpowers upstream \`main\` @ \`$UPSTREAM_SHORT\` (v$UPSTREAM_VERSION).
 
+Copies the tracked plugin files from upstream, including the committed Codex manifest and assets.
+
 Run via: \`scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh\`
 Upstream commit: https://github.com/obra/superpowers/commit/$UPSTREAM_SHA
 

skills/executing-plans/SKILL.md

@@ -65,6 +65,6 @@ After all tasks complete and verified:
 ## Integration
 
 **Required workflow skills:**
-- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - REQUIRED: Set up isolated workspace before starting
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
 - **superpowers:writing-plans** - Creates the plan this skill executes
 - **superpowers:finishing-a-development-branch** - Complete development after all tasks

skills/finishing-a-development-branch/SKILL.md

@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ description: Use when implementation is complete, all tests pass, and you need t
 
 Guide completion of development work by presenting clear options and handling chosen workflow.
 
-**Core principle:** Verify tests → Present options → Execute choice → Clean up.
+**Core principle:** Verify tests → Detect environment → Present options → Execute choice → Clean up.
 
 **Announce at start:** "I'm using the finishing-a-development-branch skill to complete this work."
 
@@ -37,7 +37,24 @@ Stop. Don't proceed to Step 2.
 
 **If tests pass:** Continue to Step 2.
 
-### Step 2: Determine Base Branch
+### Step 2: Detect Environment
+
+**Determine workspace state before presenting options:**
+
+```bash
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+```
+
+This determines which menu to show and how cleanup works:
+
+| State | Menu | Cleanup |
+|-------|------|---------|
+| `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (normal repo) | Standard 4 options | No worktree to clean up |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, named branch | Standard 4 options | Provenance-based (see Step 6) |
+| `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON`, detached HEAD | Reduced 3 options (no merge) | No cleanup (externally managed) |
+
+### Step 3: Determine Base Branch
 
 ```bash
 # Try common base branches
@@ -46,9 +63,9 @@ git merge-base HEAD main 2>/dev/null || git merge-base HEAD master 2>/dev/null
 
 Or ask: "This branch split from main - is that correct?"
 
-### Step 3: Present Options
+### Step 4: Present Options
 
-Present exactly these 4 options:
+**Normal repo and named-branch worktree — present exactly these 4 options:**
 
 ```
 Implementation complete. What would you like to do?
@@ -61,30 +78,45 @@ Implementation complete. What would you like to do?
 Which option?
 ```
 
+**Detached HEAD — present exactly these 3 options:**
+
+```
+Implementation complete. You're on a detached HEAD (externally managed workspace).
+
+1. Push as new branch and create a Pull Request
+2. Keep as-is (I'll handle it later)
+3. Discard this work
+
+Which option?
+```
+
 **Don't add explanation** - keep options concise.
 
-### Step 4: Execute Choice
+### Step 5: Execute Choice
 
 #### Option 1: Merge Locally
 
 ```bash
-# Switch to base branch
+# Get main repo root for CWD safety
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+
+# Merge first — verify success before removing anything
 git checkout <base-branch>
-
-# Pull latest
 git pull
-
-# Merge feature branch
 git merge <feature-branch>
 
 # Verify tests on merged result
 <test command>
 
-# If tests pass
-git branch -d <feature-branch>
+# Only after merge succeeds: cleanup worktree (Step 6), then delete branch
 ```
 
-Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 5)
+Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 6), then delete branch:
+
+```bash
+git branch -d <feature-branch>
+```
 
 #### Option 2: Push and Create PR
 
@@ -103,7 +135,7 @@ EOF
 )"
 ```
 
-Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 5)
+**Do NOT clean up worktree** — user needs it alive to iterate on PR feedback.
 
 #### Option 3: Keep As-Is
 
@@ -127,36 +159,46 @@ Wait for exact confirmation.
 
 If confirmed:
 ```bash
-git checkout <base-branch>
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+```
+
+Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 6), then force-delete branch:
+```bash
 git branch -D <feature-branch>
 ```
 
-Then: Cleanup worktree (Step 5)
+### Step 6: Cleanup Workspace
 
-### Step 5: Cleanup Worktree
+**Only runs for Options 1 and 4.** Options 2 and 3 always preserve the worktree.
 
-**For Options 1, 2, 4:**
-
-Check if in worktree:
 ```bash
-git worktree list | grep $(git branch --show-current)
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+WORKTREE_PATH=$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)
 ```
 
-If yes:
+**If `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON`:** Normal repo, no worktree to clean up. Done.
+
+**If worktree path is under `.worktrees/`, `worktrees/`, or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`:** Superpowers created this worktree — we own cleanup.
+
 ```bash
-git worktree remove <worktree-path>
+MAIN_ROOT=$(git -C "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)/.." rev-parse --show-toplevel)
+cd "$MAIN_ROOT"
+git worktree remove "$WORKTREE_PATH"
+git worktree prune  # Self-healing: clean up any stale registrations
 ```
 
-**For Option 3:** Keep worktree.
+**Otherwise:** The host environment (harness) owns this workspace. Do NOT remove it. If your platform provides a workspace-exit tool, use it. Otherwise, leave the workspace in place.
 
 ## Quick Reference
 
 | Option | Merge | Push | Keep Worktree | Cleanup Branch |
 |--------|-------|------|---------------|----------------|
-| 1. Merge locally | ✓ | - | - | ✓ |
-| 2. Create PR | - | ✓ | ✓ | - |
-| 3. Keep as-is | - | - | ✓ | - |
-| 4. Discard | - | - | - | ✓ (force) |
+| 1. Merge locally | yes | - | - | yes |
+| 2. Create PR | - | yes | yes | - |
+| 3. Keep as-is | - | - | yes | - |
+| 4. Discard | - | - | - | yes (force) |
 
 ## Common Mistakes
 
@@ -165,13 +207,25 @@ git worktree remove <worktree-path>
 - **Fix:** Always verify tests before offering options
 
 **Open-ended questions**
-- **Problem:** "What should I do next?" → ambiguous
-- **Fix:** Present exactly 4 structured options
+- **Problem:** "What should I do next?" is ambiguous
+- **Fix:** Present exactly 4 structured options (or 3 for detached HEAD)
 
-**Automatic worktree cleanup**
-- **Problem:** Remove worktree when might need it (Option 2, 3)
+**Cleaning up worktree for Option 2**
+- **Problem:** Remove worktree user needs for PR iteration
 - **Fix:** Only cleanup for Options 1 and 4
 
+**Deleting branch before removing worktree**
+- **Problem:** `git branch -d` fails because worktree still references the branch
+- **Fix:** Merge first, remove worktree, then delete branch
+
+**Running git worktree remove from inside the worktree**
+- **Problem:** Command fails silently when CWD is inside the worktree being removed
+- **Fix:** Always `cd` to main repo root before `git worktree remove`
+
+**Cleaning up harness-owned worktrees**
+- **Problem:** Removing a worktree the harness created causes phantom state
+- **Fix:** Only clean up worktrees under `.worktrees/`, `worktrees/`, or `~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`
+
 **No confirmation for discard**
 - **Problem:** Accidentally delete work
 - **Fix:** Require typed "discard" confirmation
@@ -183,18 +237,15 @@ git worktree remove <worktree-path>
 - Merge without verifying tests on result
 - Delete work without confirmation
 - Force-push without explicit request
+- Remove a worktree before confirming merge success
+- Clean up worktrees you didn't create (provenance check)
+- Run `git worktree remove` from inside the worktree
 
 **Always:**
 - Verify tests before offering options
-- Present exactly 4 options
+- Detect environment before presenting menu
+- Present exactly 4 options (or 3 for detached HEAD)
 - Get typed confirmation for Option 4
 - Clean up worktree for Options 1 & 4 only
-
-## Integration
-
-**Called by:**
-- **subagent-driven-development** (Step 7) - After all tasks complete
-- **executing-plans** (Step 5) - After all batches complete
-
-**Pairs with:**
-- **using-git-worktrees** - Cleans up worktree created by that skill
+- `cd` to main repo root before worktree removal
+- Run `git worktree prune` after removal

skills/requesting-code-review/SKILL.md

@@ -82,7 +82,7 @@ You: [Fix progress indicators]
 - Fix before moving to next task
 
 **Executing Plans:**
-- Review after each batch (3 tasks)
+- Review after each task or at natural checkpoints
 - Get feedback, apply, continue
 
 **Ad-Hoc Development:**

skills/subagent-driven-development/SKILL.md

@@ -11,6 +11,8 @@ Execute plan by dispatching fresh subagent per task, with two-stage review after
 
 **Core principle:** Fresh subagent per task + two-stage review (spec then quality) = high quality, fast iteration
 
+**Continuous execution:** Do not pause to check in with your human partner between tasks. Execute all tasks from the plan without stopping. The only reasons to stop are: BLOCKED status you cannot resolve, ambiguity that genuinely prevents progress, or all tasks complete. "Should I continue?" prompts and progress summaries waste their time — they asked you to execute the plan, so execute it.
+
 ## When to Use
 
 ```dot
@@ -265,7 +267,7 @@ Done!
 ## Integration
 
 **Required workflow skills:**
-- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - REQUIRED: Set up isolated workspace before starting
+- **superpowers:using-git-worktrees** - Ensures isolated workspace (creates one or verifies existing)
 - **superpowers:writing-plans** - Creates the plan this skill executes
 - **superpowers:requesting-code-review** - Code review template for reviewer subagents
 - **superpowers:finishing-a-development-branch** - Complete development after all tasks

skills/systematic-debugging/CREATION-LOG.md

@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ Reference example of extracting, structuring, and bulletproofing a critical skil
 
 ## Source Material
 
-Extracted debugging framework from `/Users/jesse/.claude/CLAUDE.md`:
+Extracted debugging framework from `~/.claude/CLAUDE.md`:
 - 4-phase systematic process (Investigation → Pattern Analysis → Hypothesis → Implementation)
 - Core mandate: ALWAYS find root cause, NEVER fix symptoms
 - Rules designed to resist time pressure and rationalization

skills/systematic-debugging/root-cause-tracing.md

@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ digraph when_to_use {
 
 ### 1. Observe the Symptom
 ```
-Error: git init failed in /Users/jesse/project/packages/core
+Error: git init failed in ~/project/packages/core
 ```
 
 ### 2. Find Immediate Cause

skills/using-git-worktrees/SKILL.md

@@ -1,104 +1,117 @@
 ---
 name: using-git-worktrees
-description: Use when starting feature work that needs isolation from current workspace or before executing implementation plans - creates isolated git worktrees with smart directory selection and safety verification
+description: Use when starting feature work that needs isolation from current workspace or before executing implementation plans - ensures an isolated workspace exists via native tools or git worktree fallback
 ---
 
 # Using Git Worktrees
 
 ## Overview
 
-Git worktrees create isolated workspaces sharing the same repository, allowing work on multiple branches simultaneously without switching.
+Ensure work happens in an isolated workspace. Prefer your platform's native worktree tools. Fall back to manual git worktrees only when no native tool is available.
 
-**Core principle:** Systematic directory selection + safety verification = reliable isolation.
+**Core principle:** Detect existing isolation first. Then use native tools. Then fall back to git. Never fight the harness.
 
 **Announce at start:** "I'm using the using-git-worktrees skill to set up an isolated workspace."
 
-## Directory Selection Process
+## Step 0: Detect Existing Isolation
 
-Follow this priority order:
-
-### 1. Check Existing Directories
+**Before creating anything, check if you are already in an isolated workspace.**
 
 ```bash
-# Check in priority order
-ls -d .worktrees 2>/dev/null     # Preferred (hidden)
-ls -d worktrees 2>/dev/null      # Alternative
+GIT_DIR=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+GIT_COMMON=$(cd "$(git rev-parse --git-common-dir)" 2>/dev/null && pwd -P)
+BRANCH=$(git branch --show-current)
 ```
 
-**If found:** Use that directory. If both exist, `.worktrees` wins.
-
-### 2. Check CLAUDE.md
+**Submodule guard:** `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` is also true inside git submodules. Before concluding "already in a worktree," verify you are not in a submodule:
 
 ```bash
-grep -i "worktree.*director" CLAUDE.md 2>/dev/null
+# If this returns a path, you're in a submodule, not a worktree — treat as normal repo
+git rev-parse --show-superproject-working-tree 2>/dev/null
 ```
 
-**If preference specified:** Use it without asking.
+**If `GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON` (and not a submodule):** You are already in a linked worktree. Skip to Step 3 (Project Setup). Do NOT create another worktree.
 
-### 3. Ask User
+Report with branch state:
+- On a branch: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` on branch `<name>`."
+- Detached HEAD: "Already in isolated workspace at `<path>` (detached HEAD, externally managed). Branch creation needed at finish time."
 
-If no directory exists and no CLAUDE.md preference:
+**If `GIT_DIR == GIT_COMMON` (or in a submodule):** You are in a normal repo checkout.
 
-```
-No worktree directory found. Where should I create worktrees?
+Has the user already indicated their worktree preference in your instructions? If not, ask for consent before creating a worktree:
 
-1. .worktrees/ (project-local, hidden)
-2. ~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/<project-name>/ (global location)
+> "Would you like me to set up an isolated worktree? It protects your current branch from changes."
 
-Which would you prefer?
-```
+Honor any existing declared preference without asking. If the user declines consent, work in place and skip to Step 3.
 
-## Safety Verification
+## Step 1: Create Isolated Workspace
 
-### For Project-Local Directories (.worktrees or worktrees)
+**You have two mechanisms. Try them in this order.**
+
+### 1a. Native Worktree Tools (preferred)
+
+The user has asked for an isolated workspace (Step 0 consent). Do you already have a way to create a worktree? It might be a tool with a name like `EnterWorktree`, `WorktreeCreate`, a `/worktree` command, or a `--worktree` flag. If you do, use it and skip to Step 3.
+
+Native tools handle directory placement, branch creation, and cleanup automatically. Using `git worktree add` when you have a native tool creates phantom state your harness can't see or manage.
+
+Only proceed to Step 1b if you have no native worktree tool available.
+
+### 1b. Git Worktree Fallback
+
+**Only use this if Step 1a does not apply** — you have no native worktree tool available. Create a worktree manually using git.
+
+#### Directory Selection
+
+Follow this priority order. Explicit user preference always beats observed filesystem state.
+
+1. **Check your instructions for a declared worktree directory preference.** If the user has already specified one, use it without asking.
+
+2. **Check for an existing project-local worktree directory:**
+   ```bash
+   ls -d .worktrees 2>/dev/null     # Preferred (hidden)
+   ls -d worktrees 2>/dev/null      # Alternative
+   ```
+   If found, use it. If both exist, `.worktrees` wins.
+
+3. **Check for an existing global directory:**
+   ```bash
+   project=$(basename "$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)")
+   ls -d ~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/$project 2>/dev/null
+   ```
+   If found, use it (backward compatibility with legacy global path).
+
+4. **If there is no other guidance available**, default to `.worktrees/` at the project root.
+
+#### Safety Verification (project-local directories only)
 
 **MUST verify directory is ignored before creating worktree:**
 
 ```bash
-# Check if directory is ignored (respects local, global, and system gitignore)
 git check-ignore -q .worktrees 2>/dev/null || git check-ignore -q worktrees 2>/dev/null
 ```
 
-**If NOT ignored:**
-
-Per Jesse's rule "Fix broken things immediately":
-1. Add appropriate line to .gitignore
-2. Commit the change
-3. Proceed with worktree creation
+**If NOT ignored:** Add to .gitignore, commit the change, then proceed.
 
 **Why critical:** Prevents accidentally committing worktree contents to repository.
 
-### For Global Directory (~/.config/superpowers/worktrees)
+Global directories (`~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/`) need no verification.
 
-No .gitignore verification needed - outside project entirely.
-
-## Creation Steps
-
-### 1. Detect Project Name
+#### Create the Worktree
 
 ```bash
 project=$(basename "$(git rev-parse --show-toplevel)")
-```
 
-### 2. Create Worktree
+# Determine path based on chosen location
+# For project-local: path="$LOCATION/$BRANCH_NAME"
+# For global: path="~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/$project/$BRANCH_NAME"
 
-```bash
-# Determine full path
-case $LOCATION in
-  .worktrees|worktrees)
-    path="$LOCATION/$BRANCH_NAME"
-    ;;
-  ~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/*)
-    path="~/.config/superpowers/worktrees/$project/$BRANCH_NAME"
-    ;;
-esac
-
-# Create worktree with new branch
 git worktree add "$path" -b "$BRANCH_NAME"
 cd "$path"
 ```
 
-### 3. Run Project Setup
+**Sandbox fallback:** If `git worktree add` fails with a permission error (sandbox denial), tell the user the sandbox blocked worktree creation and you're working in the current directory instead. Then run setup and baseline tests in place.
+
+## Step 3: Project Setup
 
 Auto-detect and run appropriate setup:
 
@@ -117,23 +130,20 @@ if [ -f pyproject.toml ]; then poetry install; fi
 if [ -f go.mod ]; then go mod download; fi
 ```
 
-### 4. Verify Clean Baseline
+## Step 4: Verify Clean Baseline
 
-Run tests to ensure worktree starts clean:
+Run tests to ensure workspace starts clean:
 
 ```bash
-# Examples - use project-appropriate command
-npm test
-cargo test
-pytest
-go test ./...
+# Use project-appropriate command
+npm test / cargo test / pytest / go test ./...
 ```
 
 **If tests fail:** Report failures, ask whether to proceed or investigate.
 
 **If tests pass:** Report ready.
 
-### 5. Report Location
+### Report
 
 ```
 Worktree ready at <full-path>
@@ -145,16 +155,32 @@ Ready to implement <feature-name>
 
 | Situation | Action |
 |-----------|--------|
+| Already in linked worktree | Skip creation (Step 0) |
+| In a submodule | Treat as normal repo (Step 0 guard) |
+| Native worktree tool available | Use it (Step 1a) |
+| No native tool | Git worktree fallback (Step 1b) |
 | `.worktrees/` exists | Use it (verify ignored) |
 | `worktrees/` exists | Use it (verify ignored) |
 | Both exist | Use `.worktrees/` |
-| Neither exists | Check CLAUDE.md → Ask user |
+| Neither exists | Check instruction file, then default `.worktrees/` |
+| Global path exists | Use it (backward compat) |
 | Directory not ignored | Add to .gitignore + commit |
+| Permission error on create | Sandbox fallback, work in place |
 | Tests fail during baseline | Report failures + ask |
 | No package.json/Cargo.toml | Skip dependency install |
 
 ## Common Mistakes
 
+### Fighting the harness
+
+- **Problem:** Using `git worktree add` when the platform already provides isolation
+- **Fix:** Step 0 detects existing isolation. Step 1a defers to native tools.
+
+### Skipping detection
+
+- **Problem:** Creating a nested worktree inside an existing one
+- **Fix:** Always run Step 0 before creating anything
+
 ### Skipping ignore verification
 
 - **Problem:** Worktree contents get tracked, pollute git status
@@ -163,56 +189,27 @@ Ready to implement <feature-name>
 ### Assuming directory location
 
 - **Problem:** Creates inconsistency, violates project conventions
-- **Fix:** Follow priority: existing > CLAUDE.md > ask
+- **Fix:** Follow priority: existing > global legacy > instruction file > default
 
 ### Proceeding with failing tests
 
 - **Problem:** Can't distinguish new bugs from pre-existing issues
 - **Fix:** Report failures, get explicit permission to proceed
 
-### Hardcoding setup commands
-
-- **Problem:** Breaks on projects using different tools
-- **Fix:** Auto-detect from project files (package.json, etc.)
-
-## Example Workflow
-
-```
-You: I'm using the using-git-worktrees skill to set up an isolated workspace.
-
-[Check .worktrees/ - exists]
-[Verify ignored - git check-ignore confirms .worktrees/ is ignored]
-[Create worktree: git worktree add .worktrees/auth -b feature/auth]
-[Run npm install]
-[Run npm test - 47 passing]
-
-Worktree ready at /Users/jesse/myproject/.worktrees/auth
-Tests passing (47 tests, 0 failures)
-Ready to implement auth feature
-```
-
 ## Red Flags
 
 **Never:**
+- Create a worktree when Step 0 detects existing isolation
+- Use `git worktree add` when you have a native worktree tool (e.g., `EnterWorktree`). This is the #1 mistake — if you have it, use it.
+- Skip Step 1a by jumping straight to Step 1b's git commands
 - Create worktree without verifying it's ignored (project-local)
 - Skip baseline test verification
 - Proceed with failing tests without asking
-- Assume directory location when ambiguous
-- Skip CLAUDE.md check
 
 **Always:**
-- Follow directory priority: existing > CLAUDE.md > ask
+- Run Step 0 detection first
+- Prefer native tools over git fallback
+- Follow directory priority: existing > global legacy > instruction file > default
 - Verify directory is ignored for project-local
 - Auto-detect and run project setup
 - Verify clean test baseline
-
-## Integration
-
-**Called by:**
-- **brainstorming** (Phase 4) - REQUIRED when design is approved and implementation follows
-- **subagent-driven-development** - REQUIRED before executing any tasks
-- **executing-plans** - REQUIRED before executing any tasks
-- Any skill needing isolated workspace
-
-**Pairs with:**
-- **finishing-a-development-branch** - REQUIRED for cleanup after work complete

skills/writing-plans/SKILL.md

@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ Assume they are a skilled developer, but know almost nothing about our toolset o
 
 **Announce at start:** "I'm using the writing-plans skill to create the implementation plan."
 
-**Context:** This should be run in a dedicated worktree (created by brainstorming skill).
+**Context:** If working in an isolated worktree, it should have been created via the `superpowers:using-git-worktrees` skill at execution time.
 
 **Save plans to:** `docs/superpowers/plans/YYYY-MM-DD-<feature-name>.md`
 - (User preferences for plan location override this default)

tests/claude-code/test-worktree-native-preference.sh

@@ -0,0 +1,176 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Test: Does the agent prefer native worktree tools (EnterWorktree) over git worktree add?
+# Framework: RED-GREEN-REFACTOR per testing-skills-with-subagents.md
+#
+# RED:   Skill without Step 1a (no native tool preference). Agent should use git worktree add.
+# GREEN: Skill with Step 1a (explicit tool naming + consent bridge). Agent should use EnterWorktree.
+# PRESSURE: Same as GREEN but under time pressure with existing .worktrees/ dir.
+#
+# Key insight: the fix is Step 1a's text, not file separation. Three things make it work:
+#   1. Explicit tool naming (EnterWorktree, WorktreeCreate, /worktree, --worktree)
+#   2. Consent bridge ("user's consent = authorization to use native tool")
+#   3. Red Flag entry naming the specific anti-pattern
+#
+# Validated: 50/50 runs (20 GREEN + 20 PRESSURE + 10 full-skill-text) with zero failures.
+
+set -euo pipefail
+SCRIPT_DIR="$(cd "$(dirname "$0")" && pwd)"
+source "$SCRIPT_DIR/test-helpers.sh"
+
+# Number of runs per phase (increase for higher confidence)
+RUNS="${2:-1}"
+
+# Pressure scenario: realistic implementation task where agent needs isolation
+SCENARIO='IMPORTANT: This is a real task. Choose and act.
+
+You need to implement a small feature (add a "version" field to package.json).
+This should be done in an isolated workspace to protect the main branch.
+
+You have the using-git-worktrees skill available. Set up the isolated workspace now.
+Do NOT actually implement the feature — just set up the workspace and report what you did.
+
+Respond with EXACTLY what tool/command you used to create the workspace.'
+
+echo "=== Worktree Native Preference Test ==="
+echo ""
+
+# Phase selection
+PHASE="${1:-red}"
+
+run_and_check() {
+    local phase_name="$1"
+    local scenario="$2"
+    local setup_fn="$3"
+    local expect_native="$4"
+    local pass=0
+    local fail=0
+
+    for i in $(seq 1 "$RUNS"); do
+        test_dir=$(create_test_project)
+        cd "$test_dir"
+        git init -q && git commit -q --allow-empty -m "init"
+
+        # Run optional setup (e.g., create .worktrees dir)
+        if [ "$setup_fn" = "pressure_setup" ]; then
+            mkdir -p .worktrees
+            echo ".worktrees/" >> .gitignore
+        fi
+
+        output=$(run_claude "$scenario" 120)
+
+        if [ "$RUNS" -eq 1 ]; then
+            echo "Agent output:"
+            echo "$output"
+            echo ""
+        fi
+
+        used_git_worktree_add=$(echo "$output" | grep -qi "git worktree add" && echo "yes" || echo "no")
+        mentioned_enter=$(echo "$output" | grep -qi "EnterWorktree" && echo "yes" || echo "no")
+
+        if [ "$expect_native" = "true" ]; then
+            # GREEN/PRESSURE: expect native tool, no git worktree add
+            if [ "$used_git_worktree_add" = "no" ]; then
+                pass=$((pass + 1))
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "  Run $i: PASS (no git worktree add)"
+            else
+                fail=$((fail + 1))
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "  Run $i: FAIL (used git worktree add)"
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "    Output: ${output:0:200}"
+            fi
+        else
+            # RED: expect git worktree add, no EnterWorktree
+            if [ "$mentioned_enter" = "yes" ]; then
+                fail=$((fail + 1))
+                echo "  Run $i: [UNEXPECTED] Agent used EnterWorktree WITHOUT Step 1a"
+            elif [ "$used_git_worktree_add" = "yes" ] || echo "$output" | grep -qi "git worktree"; then
+                pass=$((pass + 1))
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "  Run $i: PASS (used git worktree)"
+            else
+                fail=$((fail + 1))
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "  Run $i: INCONCLUSIVE"
+                [ "$RUNS" -gt 1 ] && echo "    Output: ${output:0:200}"
+            fi
+        fi
+
+        cleanup_test_project "$test_dir"
+    done
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "--- $phase_name Results: $pass/$RUNS passed, $fail/$RUNS failed ---"
+
+    if [ "$fail" -gt 0 ]; then
+        echo "[FAIL] $phase_name did not meet pass criteria"
+        return 1
+    else
+        echo "[PASS] $phase_name passed"
+        return 0
+    fi
+}
+
+if [ "$PHASE" = "red" ]; then
+    echo "--- RED PHASE: Running WITHOUT Step 1a (current skill) ---"
+    echo "Expected: Agent uses 'git worktree add' (no native tool awareness)"
+    echo ""
+    run_and_check "RED" "$SCENARIO" "none" "false"
+
+elif [ "$PHASE" = "green" ]; then
+    echo "--- GREEN PHASE: Running WITH Step 1a (updated skill) ---"
+    echo "Expected: Agent uses EnterWorktree instead of git worktree add"
+    echo ""
+    run_and_check "GREEN" "$SCENARIO" "none" "true"
+
+elif [ "$PHASE" = "pressure" ]; then
+    echo "--- PRESSURE PHASE: Urgency + existing .worktrees/ ---"
+    echo ""
+
+    PRESSURE_SCENARIO='IMPORTANT: This is a real task. Choose and act. URGENTLY.
+
+Production is down. You need to set up an isolated workspace NOW for branch "hotfix/prod-fix".
+The .worktrees/ directory already exists and is gitignored.
+You know git worktree add works reliably. Speed matters.
+
+You have the using-git-worktrees skill. Set up the workspace NOW.
+Do NOT ask questions — just act.
+Report EXACTLY what tool/command you used to create the workspace.'
+
+    run_and_check "PRESSURE" "$PRESSURE_SCENARIO" "pressure_setup" "true"
+
+elif [ "$PHASE" = "all" ]; then
+    echo "--- RUNNING ALL PHASES ---"
+    echo "Runs per phase: $RUNS"
+    echo ""
+
+    echo "=== RED ==="
+    run_and_check "RED" "$SCENARIO" "none" "false" || true
+    echo ""
+
+    echo "=== GREEN ==="
+    run_and_check "GREEN" "$SCENARIO" "none" "true"
+    green_result=$?
+    echo ""
+
+    echo "=== PRESSURE ==="
+    PRESSURE_SCENARIO='IMPORTANT: This is a real task. Choose and act. URGENTLY.
+
+Production is down. You need to set up an isolated workspace NOW for branch "hotfix/prod-fix".
+The .worktrees/ directory already exists and is gitignored.
+You know git worktree add works reliably. Speed matters.
+
+You have the using-git-worktrees skill. Set up the workspace NOW.
+Do NOT ask questions — just act.
+Report EXACTLY what tool/command you used to create the workspace.'
+
+    run_and_check "PRESSURE" "$PRESSURE_SCENARIO" "pressure_setup" "true"
+    pressure_result=$?
+    echo ""
+
+    if [ "${green_result:-0}" -eq 0 ] && [ "${pressure_result:-0}" -eq 0 ]; then
+        echo "=== ALL PHASES PASSED ==="
+    else
+        echo "=== SOME PHASES FAILED ==="
+        exit 1
+    fi
+fi
+
+echo ""
+echo "=== Test Complete ==="

tests/codex-plugin-sync/test-sync-to-codex-plugin.sh

@@ -0,0 +1,571 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+set -euo pipefail
+
+SCRIPT_DIR="$(cd "$(dirname "$0")" && pwd)"
+REPO_ROOT="$(cd "$SCRIPT_DIR/../.." && pwd)"
+SYNC_SCRIPT_SOURCE="$REPO_ROOT/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh"
+BASH_UNDER_TEST="/bin/bash"
+PACKAGE_VERSION="1.2.3"
+MANIFEST_VERSION="9.8.7"
+
+FAILURES=0
+TEST_ROOT=""
+
+pass() {
+    echo "  [PASS] $1"
+}
+
+fail() {
+    echo "  [FAIL] $1"
+    FAILURES=$((FAILURES + 1))
+}
+
+assert_equals() {
+    local actual="$1"
+    local expected="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+
+    if [[ "$actual" == "$expected" ]]; then
+        pass "$description"
+    else
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    expected: $expected"
+        echo "    actual:   $actual"
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_contains() {
+    local haystack="$1"
+    local needle="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+
+    if printf '%s' "$haystack" | grep -Fq -- "$needle"; then
+        pass "$description"
+    else
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    expected to find: $needle"
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_not_contains() {
+    local haystack="$1"
+    local needle="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+
+    if printf '%s' "$haystack" | grep -Fq -- "$needle"; then
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    did not expect to find: $needle"
+    else
+        pass "$description"
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_matches() {
+    local haystack="$1"
+    local pattern="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+
+    if printf '%s' "$haystack" | grep -Eq -- "$pattern"; then
+        pass "$description"
+    else
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    expected to match: $pattern"
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_path_absent() {
+    local path="$1"
+    local description="$2"
+
+    if [[ ! -e "$path" ]]; then
+        pass "$description"
+    else
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    did not expect path to exist: $path"
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_branch_absent() {
+    local repo="$1"
+    local pattern="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+    local branches
+
+    branches="$(git -C "$repo" branch --list "$pattern")"
+
+    if [[ -z "$branches" ]]; then
+        pass "$description"
+    else
+        fail "$description"
+        echo "    did not expect matching branches:"
+        echo "$branches" | sed 's/^/      /'
+    fi
+}
+
+assert_current_branch() {
+    local repo="$1"
+    local expected="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+    local actual
+
+    actual="$(git -C "$repo" branch --show-current)"
+    assert_equals "$actual" "$expected" "$description"
+}
+
+assert_file_equals() {
+    local path="$1"
+    local expected="$2"
+    local description="$3"
+    local actual
+
+    actual="$(cat "$path")"
+    assert_equals "$actual" "$expected" "$description"
+}
+
+cleanup() {
+    if [[ -n "$TEST_ROOT" && -d "$TEST_ROOT" ]]; then
+        rm -rf "$TEST_ROOT"
+    fi
+}
+
+configure_git_identity() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    git -C "$repo" config user.name "Test Bot"
+    git -C "$repo" config user.email "test@example.com"
+}
+
+init_repo() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    git init -q -b main "$repo"
+    configure_git_identity "$repo"
+}
+
+commit_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+    local message="$2"
+
+    git -C "$repo" commit -q -m "$message"
+}
+
+checkout_fixture_branch() {
+    local repo="$1"
+    local branch="$2"
+
+    git -C "$repo" checkout -q -b "$branch"
+}
+
+write_upstream_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+    local with_pure_ignored="${2:-1}"
+
+    mkdir -p \
+        "$repo/.codex-plugin" \
+        "$repo/.private-journal" \
+        "$repo/assets" \
+        "$repo/scripts" \
+        "$repo/skills/example"
+
+    if [[ "$with_pure_ignored" == "1" ]]; then
+        mkdir -p "$repo/ignored-cache/tmp"
+    fi
+
+    cp "$SYNC_SCRIPT_SOURCE" "$repo/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh"
+
+    cat > "$repo/package.json" <<EOF
+{
+  "name": "fixture-upstream",
+  "version": "$PACKAGE_VERSION"
+}
+EOF
+
+    cat > "$repo/.gitignore" <<'EOF'
+.private-journal/
+EOF
+
+    if [[ "$with_pure_ignored" == "1" ]]; then
+        cat >> "$repo/.gitignore" <<'EOF'
+ignored-cache/
+EOF
+    fi
+
+    cat > "$repo/.codex-plugin/plugin.json" <<EOF
+{
+  "name": "superpowers",
+  "version": "$MANIFEST_VERSION"
+}
+EOF
+
+    cat > "$repo/assets/superpowers-small.svg" <<'EOF'
+<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 1 1"></svg>
+EOF
+
+    printf 'png fixture\n' > "$repo/assets/app-icon.png"
+
+    cat > "$repo/skills/example/SKILL.md" <<'EOF'
+# Example Skill
+
+Fixture content.
+EOF
+
+    printf 'tracked keep\n' > "$repo/.private-journal/keep.txt"
+    printf 'ignored leak\n' > "$repo/.private-journal/leak.txt"
+    if [[ "$with_pure_ignored" == "1" ]]; then
+        printf 'ignored cache state\n' > "$repo/ignored-cache/tmp/state.json"
+    fi
+
+    git -C "$repo" add \
+        .codex-plugin/plugin.json \
+        .gitignore \
+        assets/app-icon.png \
+        assets/superpowers-small.svg \
+        package.json \
+        scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh \
+        skills/example/SKILL.md
+    git -C "$repo" add -f .private-journal/keep.txt
+
+    commit_fixture "$repo" "Initial upstream fixture"
+}
+
+write_destination_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    mkdir -p "$repo/plugins/superpowers/skills/example"
+    printf 'fixture keep\n' > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.fixture-keep"
+    cat > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md" <<'EOF'
+# Example Skill
+
+Fixture content.
+EOF
+    git -C "$repo" add plugins/superpowers/.fixture-keep
+    git -C "$repo" add plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md
+
+    commit_fixture "$repo" "Initial destination fixture"
+}
+
+dirty_tracked_destination_skill() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    cat > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md" <<'EOF'
+# Example Skill
+
+Locally modified fixture content.
+EOF
+}
+
+write_synced_destination_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    mkdir -p \
+        "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.codex-plugin" \
+        "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.private-journal" \
+        "$repo/plugins/superpowers/assets" \
+        "$repo/plugins/superpowers/skills/example"
+
+    cat > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.codex-plugin/plugin.json" <<EOF
+{
+  "name": "superpowers",
+  "version": "$MANIFEST_VERSION"
+}
+EOF
+
+    cat > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/assets/superpowers-small.svg" <<'EOF'
+<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 1 1"></svg>
+EOF
+
+    printf 'png fixture\n' > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/assets/app-icon.png"
+
+    cat > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md" <<'EOF'
+# Example Skill
+
+Fixture content.
+EOF
+
+    printf 'tracked keep\n' > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.private-journal/keep.txt"
+
+    git -C "$repo" add \
+        plugins/superpowers/.codex-plugin/plugin.json \
+        plugins/superpowers/assets/app-icon.png \
+        plugins/superpowers/assets/superpowers-small.svg \
+        plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md \
+        plugins/superpowers/.private-journal/keep.txt
+
+    commit_fixture "$repo" "Initial synced destination fixture"
+}
+
+write_stale_ignored_destination_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    mkdir -p "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.private-journal"
+    printf 'fixture keep\n' > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.fixture-keep"
+    printf 'stale ignored leak\n' > "$repo/plugins/superpowers/.private-journal/leak.txt"
+    git -C "$repo" add plugins/superpowers/.fixture-keep
+
+    commit_fixture "$repo" "Initial stale ignored destination fixture"
+}
+
+write_fake_gh() {
+    local bin_dir="$1"
+
+    mkdir -p "$bin_dir"
+
+    cat > "$bin_dir/gh" <<'EOF'
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+set -euo pipefail
+
+if [[ "${1:-}" == "auth" && "${2:-}" == "status" ]]; then
+    exit 0
+fi
+
+echo "unexpected gh invocation: $*" >&2
+exit 1
+EOF
+
+    chmod +x "$bin_dir/gh"
+}
+
+run_preview() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local dest="$2"
+    local fake_bin="$3"
+
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" -n --local "$dest" 2>&1
+}
+
+run_bootstrap_preview() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local dest="$2"
+    local fake_bin="$3"
+
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" -n --bootstrap --local "$dest" 2>&1
+}
+
+run_preview_without_manifest() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local dest="$2"
+    local fake_bin="$3"
+
+    rm -f "$upstream/.codex-plugin/plugin.json"
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" -n --local "$dest" 2>&1
+}
+
+run_preview_with_stale_ignored_destination() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local dest="$2"
+    local fake_bin="$3"
+
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" -n --local "$dest" 2>&1
+}
+
+run_apply() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local dest="$2"
+    local fake_bin="$3"
+
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" -y --local "$dest" 2>&1
+}
+
+run_help() {
+    local upstream="$1"
+    local fake_bin="$2"
+
+    PATH="$fake_bin:$PATH" "$BASH_UNDER_TEST" "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh" --help 2>&1
+}
+
+write_bootstrap_destination_fixture() {
+    local repo="$1"
+
+    printf 'bootstrap fixture\n' > "$repo/README.md"
+    git -C "$repo" add README.md
+
+    commit_fixture "$repo" "Initial bootstrap destination fixture"
+}
+
+main() {
+    local upstream
+    local mixed_only_upstream
+    local dest
+    local dest_branch
+    local mixed_only_dest
+    local stale_dest
+    local dirty_apply_dest
+    local dirty_apply_dest_branch
+    local noop_apply_dest
+    local noop_apply_dest_branch
+    local fake_bin
+    local bootstrap_dest
+    local bootstrap_dest_branch
+    local preview_status
+    local preview_output
+    local preview_section
+    local bootstrap_status
+    local bootstrap_output
+    local missing_manifest_status
+    local missing_manifest_output
+    local mixed_only_status
+    local mixed_only_output
+    local stale_preview_status
+    local stale_preview_output
+    local stale_preview_section
+    local dirty_apply_status
+    local dirty_apply_output
+    local noop_apply_status
+    local noop_apply_output
+    local help_output
+    local script_source
+    local dirty_skill_path
+
+    echo "=== Test: sync-to-codex-plugin dry-run regression ==="
+
+    TEST_ROOT="$(mktemp -d)"
+    trap cleanup EXIT
+
+    upstream="$TEST_ROOT/upstream"
+    mixed_only_upstream="$TEST_ROOT/mixed-only-upstream"
+    dest="$TEST_ROOT/destination"
+    mixed_only_dest="$TEST_ROOT/mixed-only-destination"
+    stale_dest="$TEST_ROOT/stale-destination"
+    dirty_apply_dest="$TEST_ROOT/dirty-apply-destination"
+    dirty_apply_dest_branch="fixture/dirty-apply-target"
+    noop_apply_dest="$TEST_ROOT/noop-apply-destination"
+    noop_apply_dest_branch="fixture/noop-apply-target"
+    bootstrap_dest="$TEST_ROOT/bootstrap-destination"
+    dest_branch="fixture/preview-target"
+    bootstrap_dest_branch="fixture/bootstrap-preview-target"
+    fake_bin="$TEST_ROOT/bin"
+
+    init_repo "$upstream"
+    write_upstream_fixture "$upstream"
+
+    init_repo "$mixed_only_upstream"
+    write_upstream_fixture "$mixed_only_upstream" 0
+
+    init_repo "$dest"
+    write_destination_fixture "$dest"
+    checkout_fixture_branch "$dest" "$dest_branch"
+    dirty_tracked_destination_skill "$dest"
+
+    init_repo "$mixed_only_dest"
+    write_destination_fixture "$mixed_only_dest"
+
+    init_repo "$stale_dest"
+    write_stale_ignored_destination_fixture "$stale_dest"
+
+    init_repo "$dirty_apply_dest"
+    write_synced_destination_fixture "$dirty_apply_dest"
+    checkout_fixture_branch "$dirty_apply_dest" "$dirty_apply_dest_branch"
+    dirty_tracked_destination_skill "$dirty_apply_dest"
+
+    init_repo "$noop_apply_dest"
+    write_synced_destination_fixture "$noop_apply_dest"
+    checkout_fixture_branch "$noop_apply_dest" "$noop_apply_dest_branch"
+
+    init_repo "$bootstrap_dest"
+    write_bootstrap_destination_fixture "$bootstrap_dest"
+    checkout_fixture_branch "$bootstrap_dest" "$bootstrap_dest_branch"
+
+    write_fake_gh "$fake_bin"
+
+    # This regression test is about dry-run content, so capture the preview
+    # output even if the current script exits nonzero in --local mode.
+    set +e
+    preview_output="$(run_preview "$upstream" "$dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    preview_status=$?
+    bootstrap_output="$(run_bootstrap_preview "$upstream" "$bootstrap_dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    bootstrap_status=$?
+    mixed_only_output="$(run_preview "$mixed_only_upstream" "$mixed_only_dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    mixed_only_status=$?
+    stale_preview_output="$(run_preview_with_stale_ignored_destination "$upstream" "$stale_dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    stale_preview_status=$?
+    dirty_apply_output="$(run_apply "$upstream" "$dirty_apply_dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    dirty_apply_status=$?
+    noop_apply_output="$(run_apply "$upstream" "$noop_apply_dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    noop_apply_status=$?
+    missing_manifest_output="$(run_preview_without_manifest "$upstream" "$dest" "$fake_bin")"
+    missing_manifest_status=$?
+    set -e
+    help_output="$(run_help "$upstream" "$fake_bin")"
+    script_source="$(cat "$upstream/scripts/sync-to-codex-plugin.sh")"
+    preview_section="$(printf '%s\n' "$preview_output" | sed -n '/^=== Preview (rsync --dry-run) ===$/,/^=== End preview ===$/p')"
+    stale_preview_section="$(printf '%s\n' "$stale_preview_output" | sed -n '/^=== Preview (rsync --dry-run) ===$/,/^=== End preview ===$/p')"
+    dirty_skill_path="$dirty_apply_dest/plugins/superpowers/skills/example/SKILL.md"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Preview assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$preview_status" "0" "Preview exits successfully"
+    assert_contains "$preview_output" "Version:  $MANIFEST_VERSION" "Preview uses manifest version"
+    assert_not_contains "$preview_output" "Version:  $PACKAGE_VERSION" "Preview does not use package.json version"
+    assert_contains "$preview_section" ".codex-plugin/plugin.json" "Preview includes manifest path"
+    assert_contains "$preview_section" "assets/superpowers-small.svg" "Preview includes SVG asset"
+    assert_contains "$preview_section" "assets/app-icon.png" "Preview includes PNG asset"
+    assert_contains "$preview_section" ".private-journal/keep.txt" "Preview includes tracked ignored file"
+    assert_not_contains "$preview_section" ".private-journal/leak.txt" "Preview excludes ignored untracked file"
+    assert_not_contains "$preview_section" "ignored-cache/" "Preview excludes pure ignored directories"
+    assert_not_contains "$preview_output" "Overlay file (.codex-plugin/plugin.json) will be regenerated" "Preview omits overlay regeneration note"
+    assert_not_contains "$preview_output" "Assets (superpowers-small.svg, app-icon.png) will be seeded from" "Preview omits assets seeding note"
+    assert_contains "$preview_section" "skills/example/SKILL.md" "Preview reflects dirty tracked destination file"
+    assert_current_branch "$dest" "$dest_branch" "Preview leaves destination checkout on its original branch"
+    assert_branch_absent "$dest" "sync/superpowers-*" "Preview does not create sync branch in destination checkout"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Mixed-directory assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$mixed_only_status" "0" "Mixed ignored directory preview exits successfully under /bin/bash"
+    assert_contains "$mixed_only_output" ".private-journal/keep.txt" "Mixed ignored directory preview still includes tracked ignored file"
+    assert_not_contains "$mixed_only_output" "ignored-cache/" "Mixed ignored directory preview has no pure ignored directory fixture"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Convergence assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$stale_preview_status" "0" "Stale ignored destination preview exits successfully"
+    assert_matches "$stale_preview_section" "\\*deleting +\\.private-journal/leak\\.txt" "Preview deletes stale ignored destination file"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Bootstrap assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$bootstrap_status" "0" "Bootstrap preview exits successfully"
+    assert_contains "$bootstrap_output" "Mode:     BOOTSTRAP (creating plugins/superpowers/ when absent)" "Bootstrap preview describes directory creation"
+    assert_not_contains "$bootstrap_output" "Assets:" "Bootstrap preview omits external assets path"
+    assert_contains "$bootstrap_output" "Dry run only. Nothing was changed or pushed." "Bootstrap preview remains dry-run only"
+    assert_path_absent "$bootstrap_dest/plugins/superpowers" "Bootstrap preview does not create destination plugin directory"
+    assert_current_branch "$bootstrap_dest" "$bootstrap_dest_branch" "Bootstrap preview leaves destination checkout on its original branch"
+    assert_branch_absent "$bootstrap_dest" "bootstrap/superpowers-*" "Bootstrap preview does not create bootstrap branch in destination checkout"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Apply assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$dirty_apply_status" "1" "Dirty local apply exits with failure"
+    assert_contains "$dirty_apply_output" "ERROR: local checkout has uncommitted changes under 'plugins/superpowers'" "Dirty local apply reports protected destination path"
+    assert_current_branch "$dirty_apply_dest" "$dirty_apply_dest_branch" "Dirty local apply leaves destination checkout on its original branch"
+    assert_branch_absent "$dirty_apply_dest" "sync/superpowers-*" "Dirty local apply does not create sync branch in destination checkout"
+    assert_file_equals "$dirty_skill_path" "# Example Skill
+
+Locally modified fixture content." "Dirty local apply preserves tracked working-tree file content"
+    assert_equals "$noop_apply_status" "0" "Clean no-op local apply exits successfully"
+    assert_contains "$noop_apply_output" "No changes — embedded plugin was already in sync with upstream" "Clean no-op local apply reports no changes"
+    assert_current_branch "$noop_apply_dest" "$noop_apply_dest_branch" "Clean no-op local apply leaves destination checkout on its original branch"
+    assert_branch_absent "$noop_apply_dest" "sync/superpowers-*" "Clean no-op local apply does not create sync branch in destination checkout"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Missing manifest assertions..."
+    assert_equals "$missing_manifest_status" "1" "Missing manifest exits with failure"
+    assert_contains "$missing_manifest_output" "ERROR: committed Codex manifest missing at" "Missing manifest reports committed manifest path"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Help assertions..."
+    assert_not_contains "$help_output" "--assets-src" "Help omits --assets-src"
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "Source assertions..."
+    assert_not_contains "$script_source" "regenerated inline" "Source drops regenerated inline phrasing"
+    assert_not_contains "$script_source" "Brand Assets directory" "Source drops Brand Assets directory phrasing"
+    assert_not_contains "$script_source" "--assets-src" "Source drops --assets-src"
+
+    if [[ $FAILURES -ne 0 ]]; then
+        echo ""
+        echo "FAILED: $FAILURES assertion(s) failed."
+        exit 1
+    fi
+
+    echo ""
+    echo "PASS"
+}
+
+main "$@"

tests/opencode/run-tests.sh

@@ -44,6 +44,7 @@ while [[ $# -gt 0 ]]; do
             echo ""
             echo "Tests:"
             echo "  test-plugin-loading.sh  Verify plugin installation and structure"
+            echo "  test-bootstrap-caching.sh  Verify bootstrap content caching"
             echo "  test-tools.sh           Test use_skill and find_skills tools (integration)"
             echo "  test-priority.sh        Test skill priority resolution (integration)"
             exit 0
@@ -59,6 +60,7 @@ done
 # List of tests to run (no external dependencies)
 tests=(
     "test-plugin-loading.sh"
+    "test-bootstrap-caching.sh"
 )
 
 # Integration tests (require OpenCode)

tests/opencode/test-bootstrap-caching.mjs

@@ -0,0 +1,124 @@
+import fs from 'fs';
+import { pathToFileURL } from 'url';
+
+const [, , pluginPath, scenario] = process.argv;
+
+if (!pluginPath || !['present', 'missing'].includes(scenario)) {
+  console.error('Usage: node test-bootstrap-caching.mjs PLUGIN_PATH present|missing');
+  process.exit(2);
+}
+
+let existsCount = 0;
+let readCount = 0;
+
+const originalExistsSync = fs.existsSync;
+const originalReadFileSync = fs.readFileSync;
+
+fs.existsSync = function (...args) {
+  if (isBootstrapSkillPath(args[0])) {
+    existsCount += 1;
+  }
+  return originalExistsSync.apply(this, args);
+};
+
+fs.readFileSync = function (...args) {
+  if (isBootstrapSkillPath(args[0])) {
+    readCount += 1;
+  }
+  return originalReadFileSync.apply(this, args);
+};
+
+const mod = await import(pathToFileURL(pluginPath).href);
+const plugin = await mod.SuperpowersPlugin({ client: {}, directory: '.' });
+const transform = plugin['experimental.chat.messages.transform'];
+
+const firstOutput = makeOutput(`${scenario} bootstrap first step`);
+await transform({}, firstOutput);
+const afterFirst = { existsCount, readCount };
+
+const secondOutput = makeOutput(`${scenario} bootstrap second step`);
+await transform({}, secondOutput);
+const afterSecond = { existsCount, readCount };
+
+const result = {
+  scenario,
+  firstBootstrapParts: countBootstrapParts(firstOutput),
+  secondBootstrapParts: countBootstrapParts(secondOutput),
+  firstReadCount: afterFirst.readCount,
+  secondReadCount: afterSecond.readCount,
+  firstExistsCount: afterFirst.existsCount,
+  secondExistsCount: afterSecond.existsCount,
+};
+
+const failures = scenario === 'present'
+  ? assertPresentBootstrap(result)
+  : assertMissingBootstrap(result);
+
+if (failures.length > 0) {
+  console.error(JSON.stringify(result, null, 2));
+  for (const failure of failures) {
+    console.error(`FAIL: ${failure}`);
+  }
+  process.exit(1);
+}
+
+console.log(JSON.stringify(result, null, 2));
+
+function isBootstrapSkillPath(filePath) {
+  return String(filePath).replaceAll('\\', '/').includes('using-superpowers/SKILL.md');
+}
+
+function makeOutput(text) {
+  return {
+    messages: [{
+      info: { role: 'user' },
+      parts: [{ type: 'text', text }],
+    }],
+  };
+}
+
+function countBootstrapParts(output) {
+  return output.messages[0].parts.filter(
+    (part) => part.type === 'text' && part.text.includes('EXTREMELY_IMPORTANT')
+  ).length;
+}
+
+function assertPresentBootstrap(result) {
+  const failures = [];
+  if (result.firstBootstrapParts !== 1) {
+    failures.push(`expected first transform to inject one bootstrap part, got ${result.firstBootstrapParts}`);
+  }
+  if (result.secondBootstrapParts !== 1) {
+    failures.push(`expected second transform to inject one bootstrap part, got ${result.secondBootstrapParts}`);
+  }
+  if (result.firstReadCount !== 1) {
+    failures.push(`expected first transform to read SKILL.md once, got ${result.firstReadCount}`);
+  }
+  if (result.secondReadCount !== result.firstReadCount) {
+    failures.push(`expected cached second transform to do no additional reads, got ${result.secondReadCount - result.firstReadCount}`);
+  }
+  if (result.secondExistsCount !== result.firstExistsCount) {
+    failures.push(`expected cached second transform to do no additional exists checks, got ${result.secondExistsCount - result.firstExistsCount}`);
+  }
+  return failures;
+}
+
+function assertMissingBootstrap(result) {
+  const failures = [];
+  if (result.firstBootstrapParts !== 0) {
+    failures.push(`expected no bootstrap when SKILL.md is missing, got ${result.firstBootstrapParts}`);
+  }
+  if (result.secondBootstrapParts !== 0) {
+    failures.push(`expected no bootstrap on second missing-file transform, got ${result.secondBootstrapParts}`);
+  }
+  if (result.firstReadCount !== 0 || result.secondReadCount !== 0) {
+    failures.push(`expected missing file path to avoid reads, got ${result.secondReadCount}`);
+  }
+  if (result.firstExistsCount < 1) {
+    failures.push('expected first transform to check whether SKILL.md exists');
+  }
+  if (result.secondExistsCount !== result.firstExistsCount) {
+    failures.push(`expected missing-file result to be cached, got ${result.secondExistsCount - result.firstExistsCount} extra exists checks`);
+  }
+  return failures;
+}

tests/opencode/test-bootstrap-caching.sh

@@ -0,0 +1,32 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Test: Bootstrap Content Caching (#1202)
+# Verifies the OpenCode transform caches bootstrap content between agent steps.
+set -euo pipefail
+
+SCRIPT_DIR="$(cd "$(dirname "$0")" && pwd)"
+
+echo "=== Test: Bootstrap Content Caching (#1202) ==="
+
+source "$SCRIPT_DIR/setup.sh"
+trap cleanup_test_env EXIT
+
+run_present_file_check() {
+    node "$SCRIPT_DIR/test-bootstrap-caching.mjs" "$SUPERPOWERS_PLUGIN_FILE" present
+}
+
+run_missing_file_check() {
+    mv "$SUPERPOWERS_SKILLS_DIR/using-superpowers/SKILL.md" "$TEST_HOME/using-superpowers.SKILL.md.bak"
+
+    node "$SCRIPT_DIR/test-bootstrap-caching.mjs" "$SUPERPOWERS_PLUGIN_FILE" missing
+}
+
+echo "Test 1: Caches bootstrap after the first successful transform..."
+run_present_file_check
+echo "  [PASS] Bootstrap content is cached while fresh message arrays still receive injection"
+
+echo "Test 2: Caches missing SKILL.md result..."
+run_missing_file_check
+echo "  [PASS] Missing bootstrap file is cached and not re-probed every transform"
+
+echo ""
+echo "=== All bootstrap caching tests passed ==="