chore: release v1.111.0

Replaces the stateless ask-once backend rule with a 4-step resolution
(current-request override > saved preference > auto-select > ask) and
adds a single `preferred_image_backend` field (auto | ask | <backend-id>)
to every image-consuming skill's EXTEND.md schema. Runtime-native tools
(Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, ...) win by default; absent
field equals `auto` so existing user EXTEND.md files stay valid with no
schema version bump.

Each image-consuming skill also gains a top-level `## Changing
Preferences` section as a first-class surface for pinning a backend and
editing common one-line preferences.

Applies across:
  - baoyu-infographic (reverts in-progress two-field image_backend_mode design)
  - baoyu-comic
  - baoyu-cover-image
  - baoyu-image-cards
  - baoyu-article-illustrator
  - baoyu-slide-deck
  - baoyu-xhs-images
  - docs/image-generation-tools.md (canonical author-side doc)

.claude-plugin/marketplace.json

@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@
   },
   "metadata": {
     "description": "Skills shared by Baoyu for improving daily work efficiency",
-    "version": "1.109.0"
+    "version": "1.111.0"
   },
   "plugins": [
     {

CHANGELOG.md

@@ -2,6 +2,12 @@
 
 English | [中文](./CHANGELOG.zh.md)
 
+## 1.111.0 - 2026-04-21
+
+### Refactor
+- Unify image-backend resolution across all image-consuming skills (`baoyu-infographic`, `baoyu-comic`, `baoyu-cover-image`, `baoyu-image-cards`, `baoyu-article-illustrator`, `baoyu-slide-deck`, `baoyu-xhs-images`): add a single `preferred_image_backend` preference field (`auto | ask | <backend-id>`) and replace the stateless ask-once rule with a 4-step resolution (current-request override → saved preference → auto-select → ask). Runtime-native tools (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`) are preferred by default; existing `EXTEND.md` files without the field are treated as `auto` with no schema bump.
+- Add a top-level `## Changing Preferences` section to each image-consuming skill as a first-class surface for pinning the backend and editing common one-line preferences.
+
 ## 1.110.0 - 2026-04-21
 
 ### Features

CHANGELOG.zh.md

@@ -2,6 +2,12 @@
 
 [English](./CHANGELOG.md) | 中文
 
+## 1.111.0 - 2026-04-21
+
+### 重构
+- 统一所有图片生成类技能（`baoyu-infographic`、`baoyu-comic`、`baoyu-cover-image`、`baoyu-image-cards`、`baoyu-article-illustrator`、`baoyu-slide-deck`、`baoyu-xhs-images`）的后端选择规则：新增单一 `preferred_image_backend` 偏好字段（`auto | ask | <backend-id>`），用 4 步解析规则（当前请求覆盖 → 已保存偏好 → 自动选择 → 询问用户）替换原有的无状态询问规则。默认优先使用运行时原生工具（如 Codex `imagegen`、Hermes `image_generate`）；未设置该字段的现有 `EXTEND.md` 文件视为 `auto`，无需升级 schema 版本。
+- 在每个图片技能中新增顶级 `## Changing Preferences` 章节,作为固定后端和修改常用偏好的一级入口。
+
 ## 1.110.0 - 2026-04-21
 
 ### 新功能

docs/image-generation-tools.md

@@ -4,13 +4,29 @@ Skills in this repo are loaded by multiple agent runtimes (Claude Code, Codex, H
 
 ## The Rule
 
-When a skill needs to render an image:
+When a skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if the skill's `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
 
-No explicit priority between runtime-native tools and repo skills — treat them equivalently and let the user decide when there's a choice. No persisted preference mechanism; the question is cheap, and the rule is stateless.
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends.
+
+## The Preference Field
+
+Each image-consuming skill's `EXTEND.md` carries a single `preferred_image_backend` field:
+
+| Value | Meaning |
+|---|---|
+| `auto` (default) | Apply the auto-select rule — runtime-native preferred, fall back to only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native. |
+| `ask` | Always confirm the backend on every run, even when a runtime-native tool exists. |
+| `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) | Pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` if it isn't. |
+
+The field is **absent-equals-auto**: older `EXTEND.md` files without this field behave exactly as if `preferred_image_backend: auto` were set. No schema version bump is needed to introduce it.
 
 ## Prompt File Requirement (hard)
 
@@ -20,6 +36,8 @@ Regardless of which backend is chosen, every skill that renders images MUST writ
 
 Each `SKILL.md` that renders images includes **exactly one** `## Image Generation Tools` section (near the top, after `## User Input Tools` and before the main workflow) that **inlines** this rule. Skills are self-contained and cannot link to `docs/` — each skill folder must ship the rule inside its own `SKILL.md`. See [CLAUDE.md → Skill Self-Containment](../CLAUDE.md).
 
+Each skill's `references/config/preferences-schema.md` (and its `EXTEND.md` template in `first-time-setup.md`) lists `preferred_image_backend` alongside other preference fields. First-time setup does NOT ask the user about the backend — `auto` is set silently. Users who want to pin a specific backend edit `EXTEND.md` later, and each skill's `## Changing Preferences` section documents the common one-line edits.
+
 Concrete tool names (`imagegen`, `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`) in this document and in SKILL.md are **examples** — agents in other runtimes apply the rule above and substitute the local equivalent. Skill-specific parameters for these backends are illustrative; runtimes without those knobs can omit them.
 
 ## Backend Skills Are Exempt

skills/baoyu-article-illustrator/SKILL.md

@@ -23,11 +23,17 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The backend receives the prompt file (or its content); the file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
@@ -207,3 +213,17 @@ When input is **pasted content** (no file path), always uses `illustrations/{top
 | [references/style-presets.md](references/style-presets.md) | Preset shortcuts (type + style + palette) |
 | [references/prompt-construction.md](references/prompt-construction.md) | Prompt templates |
 | [references/config/first-time-setup.md](references/config/first-time-setup.md) | First-time setup |
+
+## Changing Preferences
+
+EXTEND.md lives at the first matching path listed in Step 1.5. Three ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-article-illustrator preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `preferred_type: infographic`, `preferred_style: notion`, `preferred_palette: macaron`, `language: zh`.
+  - `default_output_dir: imgs-subdir` — where to write generated images relative to the article.

skills/baoyu-article-illustrator/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -126,13 +126,13 @@ preferred_style:
   description: ""
 default_output_dir: imgs-subdir  # same-dir | imgs-subdir | illustrations-subdir | independent
 language: null
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 custom_styles: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup does not ask about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when available, and falls back to installed backends.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or run setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `config/preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `preferences-schema.md`.

skills/baoyu-article-illustrator/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -26,6 +26,8 @@ language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|auto
 
 default_output_dir: null  # same-dir|illustrations-subdir|independent
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto  # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: my-style
     description: "Style description"
@@ -52,6 +54,7 @@ custom_styles:
 | `preferred_palette` | string | null | Palette override (macaron, warm, neon, or null) |
 | `language` | string | null | Output language (null = auto-detect) |
 | `default_output_dir` | enum | null | Output directory preference (null = ask each time) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 | `custom_styles` | array | [] | User-defined styles |
 
 ## Position Options
@@ -113,6 +116,8 @@ preferred_style:
 
 language: zh
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: corporate
     description: "Professional B2B style"

skills/baoyu-comic/SKILL.md

@@ -27,11 +27,17 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The backend receives the prompt file (or its content); the file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
@@ -295,3 +301,16 @@ If EXTEND.md is not found, first-time setup is **blocking** — complete it befo
 - **Step 7.1 character sheet** - recommended for multi-page comics, optional for simple presets
 - **Step 7.2 character reference** - use `--ref` if sheet exists; compress/convert on failure; fall back to prompt-only
 - Watermark/language configured once in EXTEND.md
+
+## Changing Preferences
+
+EXTEND.md lives at `.baoyu-skills/baoyu-comic/EXTEND.md` (project) or `~/.baoyu-skills/baoyu-comic/EXTEND.md` (user). Three ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-comic preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `watermark.enabled: true`, `preferred_art`, `preferred_tone`, `preferred_layout`, `language` — shift the auto-selection defaults and cosmetic choices.

skills/baoyu-comic/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -142,13 +142,13 @@ preferred_tone: [selected tone or null]
 preferred_layout: null
 preferred_aspect: null
 language: [selected or null]
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 character_presets: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup does not ask about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when available, and falls back to installed backends.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or run setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `config/preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `config/preferences-schema.md`.

skills/baoyu-comic/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -23,6 +23,8 @@ preferred_aspect: null    # 3:4|4:3|16:9
 
 language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|auto
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto  # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 character_presets:
   - name: my-characters
     roles:
@@ -46,6 +48,7 @@ character_presets:
 | `preferred_layout` | string | null | Layout preference or null |
 | `preferred_aspect` | string | null | Aspect ratio (3:4, 4:3, 16:9) |
 | `language` | string | null | Output language (null = auto-detect) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 | `character_presets` | array | [] | Preset character roles for styles like ohmsha |
 
 ## Art Style Options
@@ -122,6 +125,8 @@ preferred_aspect: "3:4"
 
 language: zh
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 character_presets:
   - name: tech-tutorial
     roles:

skills/baoyu-cover-image/SKILL.md

@@ -23,11 +23,17 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The backend receives the prompt file (or its content); the file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
@@ -228,13 +234,18 @@ Files:
 - **Characters**: Simplified silhouettes; NO realistic humans
 - **Title**: Use exact title from user/source; never invent
 
-## Extension Support
+## Changing Preferences
 
-Custom configurations via EXTEND.md. See **Step 0** for paths.
+EXTEND.md lives at the path noted in **Step 0**. Three ways to change it:
 
-Supports: Watermark | Preferred dimensions | Default aspect/output | Quick mode | Custom palettes | Language
-
-Schema: [references/config/preferences-schema.md](references/config/preferences-schema.md)
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: [references/config/preferences-schema.md](references/config/preferences-schema.md).
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-cover-image preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `watermark.enabled: true`, `preferred_type`, `preferred_palette`, `preferred_rendering`, `default_aspect`, `quick_mode: true`, `language` — shift the auto-selection defaults and confirmation flow.
 
 ## References
 

skills/baoyu-cover-image/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -188,15 +188,15 @@ default_aspect: [16:9/2.35:1/1:1/3:4]
 default_output_dir: [independent/same-dir/imgs-subdir]
 quick_mode: [true/false]
 language: null
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 custom_palettes: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup does not ask about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when available, and falls back to installed backends.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or run setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `preferences-schema.md`.
 
-**EXTEND.md Supports**: Watermark | Preferred type | Preferred palette | Preferred rendering | Preferred text | Preferred mood | Default aspect ratio | Default output directory | Quick mode | Custom palette definitions | Language preference
+**EXTEND.md Supports**: Watermark | Preferred type | Preferred palette | Preferred rendering | Preferred text | Preferred mood | Default aspect ratio | Default output directory | Quick mode | Image backend preference | Custom palette definitions | Language preference

skills/baoyu-cover-image/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -32,6 +32,8 @@ quick_mode: false         # Skip confirmation when true
 
 language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|auto (null = auto-detect)
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto  # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 custom_palettes:
   - name: my-palette
     description: "Palette description"
@@ -60,6 +62,7 @@ custom_palettes:
 | `default_aspect` | string | "2.35:1" | Default aspect ratio |
 | `quick_mode` | bool | false | Skip confirmation step |
 | `language` | string | null | Output language (null = auto-detect) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 | `custom_palettes` | array | [] | User-defined palettes |
 
 ## Type Options
@@ -187,6 +190,8 @@ quick_mode: true
 
 language: en
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 custom_palettes:
   - name: corporate-tech
     description: "Professional B2B tech palette"

skills/baoyu-image-cards/SKILL.md

@@ -23,14 +23,22 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
+Concrete tool names (`imagegen`, `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`) above are examples — substitute the local equivalents under the same rule.
+
 ## Language
 
 Respond in the user's language across questions, progress, errors, and completion summary. Keep technical tokens (style names, file paths, code) in English.
@@ -417,4 +425,16 @@ Always update the prompt file before regenerating — it's the source of truth a
 - For sensitive public figures, use stylized cartoon alternatives.
 - Smart Confirm (Step 2) is required; Detailed mode adds a second confirmation (2a + 2c).
 
-Custom configurations via EXTEND.md. See Step 0 for paths and schema.
+## Changing Preferences
+
+EXTEND.md lives at the first matching path listed in Step 0. Three ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-image-cards preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `preferred_style: notion`, `preferred_layout: dense`, `preferred_palette: macaron`, `language: zh`.
+  - `watermark.enabled: true` + `watermark.content: "@handle"` — add a watermark.

skills/baoyu-image-cards/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -110,13 +110,13 @@ preferred_style:
   description: ""
 preferred_layout: null
 language: null
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 custom_styles: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup does not ask about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when available, and falls back to installed backends.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or run setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `config/preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `preferences-schema.md`.

skills/baoyu-image-cards/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -24,6 +24,8 @@ preferred_layout: null    # sparse|balanced|dense|list|comparison|flow
 
 language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|auto
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto  # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: my-style
     description: "Style description"
@@ -49,6 +51,7 @@ custom_styles:
 | `preferred_style.description` | string | "" | Custom notes/override |
 | `preferred_layout` | string | null | Layout preference or null |
 | `language` | string | null | Output language (null = auto-detect) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 | `custom_styles` | array | [] | User-defined styles |
 
 ## Position Options
@@ -104,6 +107,8 @@ preferred_layout: dense
 
 language: zh
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: corporate
     description: "Professional B2B style"

skills/baoyu-infographic/SKILL.md

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 ---
 name: baoyu-infographic
 description: Generate professional infographics with 21 layout types and 21 visual styles. Analyzes content, recommends layout×style combinations, and generates publication-ready infographics. Use when user asks to create "infographic", "信息图", "visual summary", "可视化", or "高密度信息大图".
-version: 1.56.1
+version: 1.57.0
 metadata:
   openclaw:
     homepage: https://github.com/JimLiu/baoyu-skills#baoyu-infographic
@@ -23,11 +23,17 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The backend receives the prompt file (or its content); the file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
@@ -201,7 +207,7 @@ Check EXTEND.md in priority order — the first one found wins:
 | Found | Read, parse, display a one-line summary |
 | Not found | Ask the user with `AskUserQuestion` (see `references/config/first-time-setup.md`) |
 
-**EXTEND.md supports**: preferred layout/style, default aspect ratio, custom style definitions, language preference.
+**EXTEND.md supports**: preferred layout/style, default aspect ratio, language preference, preferred image backend, custom style definitions.
 
 Schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`
 
@@ -248,6 +254,7 @@ Ask the user to confirm the questions below following the [User Input Tools](#us
 | 1 | **Combination** | Always | 3+ layout×style combos with rationale |
 | 2 | **Aspect** | Always | Named presets (landscape/portrait/square) or custom W:H ratio (e.g., 3:4, 4:3, 2.35:1) |
 | 3 | **Language** | Only if source ≠ user language | Language for text content |
+| 4 | **Image Backend** | Only if step 3 of the `## Image Generation Tools` rule needs to ask (no runtime-native tool AND multiple non-native backends, OR `preferred_image_backend: ask`) | Available backends |
 
 ### Step 5: Generate Prompt → `prompts/infographic.md`
 
@@ -266,7 +273,7 @@ Combine:
 
 ### Step 6: Generate Image
 
-1. Select the backend via the `## Image Generation Tools` rule at the top: use whatever is available; if multiple, ask the user once. Do this once per session.
+1. Resolve the backend per the `## Image Generation Tools` rule at the top of this file.
 2. Ensure the full final prompt is persisted at `prompts/infographic.md` (already written in Step 5) BEFORE invoking the backend — the file is the reproducibility record.
 3. **Check for existing file**: Before generating, check if `infographic.png` exists
    - If exists: Rename to `infographic-backup-YYYYMMDD-HHMMSS.png`
@@ -275,7 +282,7 @@ Combine:
 
 ### Step 7: Output Summary
 
-Report: topic, layout, style, aspect, language, output path, files created.
+Report: topic, layout, style, aspect, language, image backend, output path, files created.
 
 ## References
 
@@ -285,6 +292,15 @@ Report: topic, layout, style, aspect, language, output path, files created.
 - `references/layouts/<layout>.md` - 21 layout definitions
 - `references/styles/<style>.md` - 21 style definitions
 
-## Extension Support
+## Changing Preferences
 
-Custom configurations via EXTEND.md. See **Step 1.1** for paths and supported options.
+EXTEND.md lives at the first matching path in Step 1.1. Three ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-infographic preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `preferred_layout: dense-modules`, `preferred_style: morandi-journal`, `preferred_aspect: portrait`, `language: zh` — shift the Step-3 recommendations and Step-4 defaults.

skills/baoyu-infographic/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -141,13 +141,13 @@ preferred_layout: [selected layout or null]
 preferred_style: [selected style or null]
 preferred_aspect: [landscape|portrait|square|null]
 language: [selected language or null]
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 custom_styles: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup never asks about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when one is available, and falls back to installed backends like `baoyu-imagine`.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or trigger setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to re-trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change layout/style defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.

skills/baoyu-infographic/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -17,6 +17,8 @@ preferred_aspect: null    # landscape|portrait|square|null  (custom W:H also acc
 
 language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|null (null = auto-detect from source)
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto   # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 custom_styles:            # extra style definitions merged with the 21 built-ins
   - name: my-brand
     description: "Short description shown in Step 3 recommendations"
@@ -33,8 +35,19 @@ custom_styles:            # extra style definitions merged with the 21 built-ins
 | `preferred_style` | string\|null | null | Pre-selected style — surfaces as the top recommendation in Step 3 |
 | `preferred_aspect` | string\|null | null | Default aspect for Step 4 (named preset or W:H string) |
 | `language` | string\|null | null | Output language (null = auto-detect from source content) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. |
 | `custom_styles` | array | [] | Additional styles available alongside the 21 built-ins |
 
+Backend resolution logic is documented in the `## Image Generation Tools` section of `SKILL.md`. This doc only defines the field.
+
+Example backend ids:
+
+| Value | Meaning |
+|-------|---------|
+| `codex-imagegen` | Codex built-in `imagegen` tool |
+| `baoyu-imagine` | `baoyu-imagine` skill / script backend |
+| `image_generate` | Generic runtime image tool such as Hermes |
+
 ## Layout Options
 
 See the **Layout Gallery (21)** table in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list. Common picks:
@@ -87,6 +100,8 @@ language: zh
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend` is omitted above; absence is treated as `auto`.
+
 ## Example: Full Preferences
 
 ```yaml
@@ -99,6 +114,8 @@ preferred_aspect: portrait
 
 language: zh
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: my-brand
     description: "Brand-aligned warm pastel infographic"

skills/baoyu-slide-deck/SKILL.md

@@ -27,14 +27,22 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-slide-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
+Concrete tool names (`imagegen`, `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`) above are examples — substitute the local equivalents under the same rule.
+
 ## Language
 
 Respond in the user's language across questions, progress reports, error messages, and the completion summary. Keep technical tokens (style names, file paths, code) in English.
@@ -320,4 +328,14 @@ See `references/modification-guide.md` for full details.
 - For sensitive public figures, prefer stylized alternatives to avoid likeness issues.
 - Maintain visual consistency via the session ID when the backend supports it.
 
-Custom configurations via EXTEND.md. See Step 1.1 for paths and schema.
+## Changing Preferences
+
+EXTEND.md lives at the first matching path listed in Step 1.1. Two ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `preferred_style: blueprint`, `preferred_audience: experts`, `language: zh`.

skills/baoyu-slide-deck/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -12,6 +12,7 @@ style: blueprint              # Preset name OR "custom"
 audience: general             # beginners | intermediate | experts | executives | general
 language: auto                # auto | en | zh | ja | etc.
 review: true                  # true = review outline before generation
+preferred_image_backend: auto # auto | ask | <backend-id>
 
 ## Custom Dimensions (only when style: custom)
 dimensions:
@@ -40,6 +41,7 @@ custom_styles:
 | `audience` | string | `general` | Default target audience |
 | `language` | string | `auto` | Output language (auto = detect from input) |
 | `review` | boolean | `true` | Show outline review before generation |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 
 ### Custom Dimensions
 

skills/baoyu-xhs-images/SKILL.md

@@ -24,14 +24,22 @@ Concrete `AskUserQuestion` references below are examples — substitute the loca
 
 ## Image Generation Tools
 
-When this skill needs to render an image:
+When this skill needs to render an image, resolve the backend in this order:
 
-- **Use whatever image-generation tool or skill is available** in the current runtime — e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`, or any equivalent the user has installed.
-- **If multiple are available**, ask the user **once** at the start which to use (batch with any other initial questions).
-- **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+1. **Current-request override** — if the user names a specific backend in the current message, use it.
+2. **Saved preference** — if `EXTEND.md` sets `preferred_image_backend` to a backend available right now, use it.
+3. **Auto-select** (when the preference is `auto`, unset, or the pinned backend isn't available):
+   - If the current runtime exposes a native image tool (e.g., Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`), use it. Runtime-native tools are preferred by default — agents that know their own tool inventory should surface the native one here.
+   - Otherwise, if exactly one non-native backend is installed (e.g., `baoyu-imagine`), use it.
+   - Otherwise (multiple non-native backends with no runtime-native tool), ask the user once — batch with any other initial questions.
+4. **If none are available**, tell the user and ask how to proceed.
+
+Setting `preferred_image_backend: ask` forces the step-3 prompt every run regardless of available backends. Users change the pinned backend via the `## Changing Preferences` section below.
 
 **Prompt file requirement (hard)**: write each image's full, final prompt to a standalone file under `prompts/` (naming: `NN-{type}-[slug].md`) BEFORE invoking any backend. The file is the reproducibility record and lets you switch backends without regenerating prompts.
 
+Concrete tool names (`imagegen`, `image_generate`, `baoyu-imagine`) above are examples — substitute the local equivalents under the same rule.
+
 ## Language
 
 Respond in the user's language across questions, progress, errors, and completion summary. Keep technical tokens (style names, file paths, code) in English.
@@ -418,4 +426,16 @@ Always update the prompt file before regenerating — it's the source of truth a
 - For sensitive public figures, use stylized cartoon alternatives.
 - Smart Confirm (Step 2) is required; Detailed mode adds a second confirmation (2a + 2c).
 
-Custom configurations via EXTEND.md. See Step 0 for paths and schema.
+## Changing Preferences
+
+EXTEND.md lives at the first matching path listed in Step 0. Three ways to change it:
+
+- **Edit directly** — open EXTEND.md and change fields. Full schema: `references/config/preferences-schema.md`.
+- **Reconfigure interactively** — delete EXTEND.md (or ask "reconfigure baoyu-xhs-images preferences" / "重新配置"). The next run re-triggers first-time setup.
+- **Common one-line edits**:
+  - `preferred_image_backend: auto` — default; runtime-native tool wins, falls back to the only installed backend, asks only if multiple non-native are present.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen` — pin to Codex's built-in.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: baoyu-imagine` — pin to the baoyu-imagine skill.
+  - `preferred_image_backend: ask` — confirm backend every run.
+  - `preferred_style: notion`, `preferred_layout: dense`, `preferred_palette: macaron`, `language: zh`.
+  - `watermark.enabled: true` + `watermark.content: "@handle"` — add a watermark.

skills/baoyu-xhs-images/references/config/first-time-setup.md

@@ -110,13 +110,13 @@ preferred_style:
   description: ""
 preferred_layout: null
 language: null
+preferred_image_backend: auto
 custom_styles: []
 ---
 ```
 
+`preferred_image_backend: auto` is the baked-in default — first-time setup does not ask about it. The `## Image Generation Tools` rule in SKILL.md then picks the runtime-native tool (Codex `imagegen`, Hermes `image_generate`, etc.) when available, and falls back to installed backends.
+
 ## Modifying Preferences Later
 
-Users can edit EXTEND.md directly or run setup again:
-- Delete EXTEND.md to trigger setup
-- Edit YAML frontmatter for quick changes
-- Full schema: `config/preferences-schema.md`
+See the `## Changing Preferences` section in `SKILL.md` for the canonical list of common edits (pin backend, change defaults, retrigger setup). Full schema: `preferences-schema.md`.

skills/baoyu-xhs-images/references/config/preferences-schema.md

@@ -24,6 +24,8 @@ preferred_layout: null    # sparse|balanced|dense|list|comparison|flow
 
 language: null            # zh|en|ja|ko|auto
 
+preferred_image_backend: auto  # auto|ask|<backend-id>
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: my-style
     description: "Style description"
@@ -49,6 +51,7 @@ custom_styles:
 | `preferred_style.description` | string | "" | Custom notes/override |
 | `preferred_layout` | string | null | Layout preference or null |
 | `language` | string | null | Output language (null = auto-detect) |
+| `preferred_image_backend` | string | `auto` | Image backend selection. `auto` = prefer runtime-native tool, fall back to the only installed backend, ask if multiple non-native are present. `ask` = always confirm on every run. `<backend-id>` (e.g., `codex-imagegen`, `baoyu-imagine`, `image_generate`) = pin this backend when available; fall back to `auto` when it isn't. Absent = `auto`. Resolution logic is documented in `SKILL.md`'s `## Image Generation Tools` section. |
 | `custom_styles` | array | [] | User-defined styles |
 
 ## Position Options
@@ -104,6 +107,8 @@ preferred_layout: dense
 
 language: zh
 
+preferred_image_backend: codex-imagegen
+
 custom_styles:
   - name: corporate
     description: "Professional B2B style"