diff --git a/SKILL.md b/SKILL.md
index d63e8a835..09163fa51 100644
--- a/SKILL.md
+++ b/SKILL.md
@@ -93,7 +93,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/autoplan/SKILL.md b/autoplan/SKILL.md
index ba72af72f..8b3224c39 100644
--- a/autoplan/SKILL.md
+++ b/autoplan/SKILL.md
@@ -102,7 +102,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/benchmark/SKILL.md b/benchmark/SKILL.md
index ea0305be3..c6262cdda 100644
--- a/benchmark/SKILL.md
+++ b/benchmark/SKILL.md
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/browse/SKILL.md b/browse/SKILL.md
index f9af93e5e..5aad3e5c4 100644
--- a/browse/SKILL.md
+++ b/browse/SKILL.md
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/canary/SKILL.md b/canary/SKILL.md
index b72a13eb3..425410929 100644
--- a/canary/SKILL.md
+++ b/canary/SKILL.md
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/checkpoint/SKILL.md b/checkpoint/SKILL.md
index baa40e1a0..a21a74e8e 100644
--- a/checkpoint/SKILL.md
+++ b/checkpoint/SKILL.md
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/codex/SKILL.md b/codex/SKILL.md
index 77384bdc5..8c64797d7 100644
--- a/codex/SKILL.md
+++ b/codex/SKILL.md
@@ -96,7 +96,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/connect-chrome/SKILL.md b/connect-chrome/SKILL.md
index 48970f807..0d33c73ec 100644
--- a/connect-chrome/SKILL.md
+++ b/connect-chrome/SKILL.md
@@ -93,7 +93,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/cso/SKILL.md b/cso/SKILL.md
index b4f093ad8..05db60b53 100644
--- a/cso/SKILL.md
+++ b/cso/SKILL.md
@@ -99,7 +99,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/design-consultation/SKILL.md b/design-consultation/SKILL.md
index 7052ba7d9..9516db8b1 100644
--- a/design-consultation/SKILL.md
+++ b/design-consultation/SKILL.md
@@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/design-html/SKILL.md b/design-html/SKILL.md
index 100ed65cc..ce92d643c 100644
--- a/design-html/SKILL.md
+++ b/design-html/SKILL.md
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/design-review/SKILL.md b/design-review/SKILL.md
index b634d1879..1f0d6c6f8 100644
--- a/design-review/SKILL.md
+++ b/design-review/SKILL.md
@@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/design-shotgun/SKILL.md b/design-shotgun/SKILL.md
index 0f8f716e3..59f9befe7 100644
--- a/design-shotgun/SKILL.md
+++ b/design-shotgun/SKILL.md
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/document-release/SKILL.md b/document-release/SKILL.md
index e274cc28d..045222d86 100644
--- a/document-release/SKILL.md
+++ b/document-release/SKILL.md
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md b/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md
new file mode 120000
index 000000000..d69512cfc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md
@@ -0,0 +1 @@
+SKILL.md
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/health/SKILL.md b/health/SKILL.md
index 68ade8e20..d912b8693 100644
--- a/health/SKILL.md
+++ b/health/SKILL.md
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/investigate/SKILL.md b/investigate/SKILL.md
index 3f57ded9b..4cd404857 100644
--- a/investigate/SKILL.md
+++ b/investigate/SKILL.md
@@ -112,7 +112,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/land-and-deploy/SKILL.md b/land-and-deploy/SKILL.md
index 4a13ca100..6382ec462 100644
--- a/land-and-deploy/SKILL.md
+++ b/land-and-deploy/SKILL.md
@@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/learn/SKILL.md b/learn/SKILL.md
index e8f6055c2..fc22963ee 100644
--- a/learn/SKILL.md
+++ b/learn/SKILL.md
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/office-hours/SKILL.md b/office-hours/SKILL.md
index 2fb28fad9..77d88b5f9 100644
--- a/office-hours/SKILL.md
+++ b/office-hours/SKILL.md
@@ -104,7 +104,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/plan-ceo-review/SKILL.md b/plan-ceo-review/SKILL.md
index 2e692ed3c..739dd5eb4 100644
--- a/plan-ceo-review/SKILL.md
+++ b/plan-ceo-review/SKILL.md
@@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/plan-design-review/SKILL.md b/plan-design-review/SKILL.md
index 43c065a9e..a020aac6a 100644
--- a/plan-design-review/SKILL.md
+++ b/plan-design-review/SKILL.md
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/plan-eng-review/SKILL.md b/plan-eng-review/SKILL.md
index bf990f528..d90efa61e 100644
--- a/plan-eng-review/SKILL.md
+++ b/plan-eng-review/SKILL.md
@@ -99,7 +99,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/qa-only/SKILL.md b/qa-only/SKILL.md
index 996b2f364..23e39cd83 100644
--- a/qa-only/SKILL.md
+++ b/qa-only/SKILL.md
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/qa/SKILL.md b/qa/SKILL.md
index 893d04112..85d7375d3 100644
--- a/qa/SKILL.md
+++ b/qa/SKILL.md
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/retro/SKILL.md b/retro/SKILL.md
index bd99a7624..cdf880838 100644
--- a/retro/SKILL.md
+++ b/retro/SKILL.md
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/review/SKILL.md b/review/SKILL.md
index eeb3c2ec1..423ac334a 100644
--- a/review/SKILL.md
+++ b/review/SKILL.md
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/scripts/resolvers/preamble.ts b/scripts/resolvers/preamble.ts
index 49288500c..9c7164ff3 100644
--- a/scripts/resolvers/preamble.ts
+++ b/scripts/resolvers/preamble.ts
@@ -103,7 +103,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the \`/gstack-\` prefix (e.g., \`/gstack-qa
 of \`/qa\`, \`/gstack-ship\` instead of \`/ship\`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 \`${ctx.paths.skillRoot}/[skill-name]/SKILL.md\` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows \`UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>\`: read \`${ctx.paths.skillRoot}/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md\` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If \`JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>\`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.`;
+If output shows \`UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>\`: read \`${ctx.paths.skillRoot}/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md\` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If \`JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>\`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.`;
 }
 
 function generateLakeIntro(): string {
diff --git a/setup b/setup
index 91f0c9e73..524779458 100755
--- a/setup
+++ b/setup
@@ -465,8 +465,11 @@ create_codex_runtime_root() {
   if [ -d "$gstack_dir/browse/bin" ]; then
     ln -snf "$gstack_dir/browse/bin" "$codex_gstack/browse/bin"
   fi
+  # INLINE.md (not SKILL.md): hosts that scan skills recursively (Cursor/Codex) would
+  # register a second gstack-upgrade next to ~/.codex/skills/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md.
   if [ -f "$agents_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" ]; then
-    ln -snf "$agents_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$codex_gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
+    ln -snf "$agents_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$codex_gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md"
+    rm -f "$codex_gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
   fi
   # Review runtime assets (individual files, NOT the whole review/ dir which has SKILL.md)
   for f in checklist.md design-checklist.md greptile-triage.md TODOS-format.md; do
@@ -506,7 +509,8 @@ create_factory_runtime_root() {
     ln -snf "$gstack_dir/browse/bin" "$factory_gstack/browse/bin"
   fi
   if [ -f "$factory_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" ]; then
-    ln -snf "$factory_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$factory_gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
+    ln -snf "$factory_dir/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$factory_gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md"
+    rm -f "$factory_gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
   fi
   for f in checklist.md design-checklist.md greptile-triage.md TODOS-format.md; do
     if [ -f "$gstack_dir/review/$f" ]; then
@@ -623,9 +627,9 @@ if [ "$INSTALL_KIRO" -eq 1 ]; then
   if [ -f "$SOURCE_GSTACK_DIR/ETHOS.md" ]; then
     ln -snf "$SOURCE_GSTACK_DIR/ETHOS.md" "$KIRO_GSTACK/ETHOS.md"
   fi
-  # gstack-upgrade skill
   if [ -f "$AGENTS_DIR/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" ]; then
-    ln -snf "$AGENTS_DIR/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$KIRO_GSTACK/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
+    ln -snf "$AGENTS_DIR/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md" "$KIRO_GSTACK/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md"
+    rm -f "$KIRO_GSTACK/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md"
   fi
   # Review runtime assets (individual files, not whole dir)
   for f in checklist.md design-checklist.md greptile-triage.md TODOS-format.md; do
diff --git a/setup-browser-cookies/SKILL.md b/setup-browser-cookies/SKILL.md
index 91828dacb..b9360e1b4 100644
--- a/setup-browser-cookies/SKILL.md
+++ b/setup-browser-cookies/SKILL.md
@@ -92,7 +92,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/setup-deploy/SKILL.md b/setup-deploy/SKILL.md
index a186aa339..6c51621af 100644
--- a/setup-deploy/SKILL.md
+++ b/setup-deploy/SKILL.md
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/ship/SKILL.md b/ship/SKILL.md
index 925245824..42c3c99a2 100644
--- a/ship/SKILL.md
+++ b/ship/SKILL.md
@@ -99,7 +99,7 @@ or invoking other gstack skills, use the `/gstack-` prefix (e.g., `/gstack-qa` i
 of `/qa`, `/gstack-ship` instead of `/ship`). Disk paths are unaffected — always use
 `~/.claude/skills/gstack/[skill-name]/SKILL.md` for reading skill files.
 
-If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
+If output shows `UPGRADE_AVAILABLE <old> <new>`: read `~/.claude/skills/gstack/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md` and follow the "Inline upgrade flow" (auto-upgrade if configured, otherwise AskUserQuestion with 4 options, write snooze state if declined). If `JUST_UPGRADED <from> <to>`: tell user "Running gstack v{to} (just updated!)" and continue.
 
 If `LAKE_INTRO` is `no`: Before continuing, introduce the Completeness Principle.
 Tell the user: "gstack follows the **Boil the Lake** principle — always do the complete
diff --git a/test/gen-skill-docs.test.ts b/test/gen-skill-docs.test.ts
index 4a25195de..1bd46be8d 100644
--- a/test/gen-skill-docs.test.ts
+++ b/test/gen-skill-docs.test.ts
@@ -1636,7 +1636,7 @@ describe('Codex generation (--host codex)', () => {
     expect(content).toContain('GSTACK_ROOT');
     expect(content).toContain('$_ROOT/.agents/skills/gstack');
     expect(content).toContain('$GSTACK_BIN/gstack-config');
-    expect(content).toContain('$GSTACK_ROOT/gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md');
+    expect(content).toContain('$GSTACK_ROOT/gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md');
     expect(content).not.toContain('~/.codex/skills/gstack/bin/gstack-config get telemetry');
   });
 
@@ -2032,7 +2032,7 @@ describe('setup script validation', () => {
     expect(fnBody).toContain('gstack/SKILL.md');
     expect(fnBody).toContain('browse/dist');
     expect(fnBody).toContain('browse/bin');
-    expect(fnBody).toContain('gstack-upgrade/SKILL.md');
+    expect(fnBody).toContain('gstack-upgrade/INLINE.md');
     // Review runtime assets (individual files, not the whole dir)
     expect(fnBody).toContain('checklist.md');
     expect(fnBody).toContain('design-checklist.md');