- Always bump `VERSION` unless the only changed files are `Dockerfile`, `*.md`, or `VERSION` itself.
- Always document code and behavior changes in `CHANGELOG.md` unless the only changed files are `Dockerfile`, `*.md`, or `VERSION` itself.
- Update `README.md` whenever user-facing behavior, setup, runtime requirements, Docker usage, or provider state changes.
- Commit changes with a clear commit message and push them after verification.
- Preserve data from existing Kaizoku instances. Updates must not wipe `.kaizoku/` state, configuration, queue history, watchlists, thumbnails, downloads, or Jellyfin library content.
- When needed, install project tools with `pip` or the platform package manager.
- LAN URLs and `github.com` URLs may be accessed when needed for this project.