I’ve been doing a lot of studies for the next chapter of Teo’s Journey. Recently, I shared a reflection on whether to revisit and refine previous work or to boldly push ahead. It became clear that my indecision was precisely what held me back, creating an invisible barrier against the very progress I aimed to achieve. Simply questioning my path had inadvertently halted my creative momentum.

With newfound clarity inspired by my own reflections, I’ve decided to fully embrace forward momentum. Over this coming week, my energy will be dedicated entirely to bringing Teo’s next steps to life—ideas that have been carefully fleshed out but sat idle, trapped by my hesitation. This shift toward decisive action feels liberating and energizing.

Ever since the inception of DerryBears, featuring Mik and Nik, my storytelling has been deeply rooted in Slavic and Celtic folklore. One story in particular—the Keeper and the Mollkhata—has persistently intrigued me. In this tale, the Keeper guards a sinister, living shack that moves with octopus-like tentacles, feasting on souls. Bound by duty and survival, the Keeper can only escape if another soul willingly takes his place, perpetuating an endless cycle of captivity and duty. I’ve toned down the Keeper’s design quite a bit so that integrating such folklore into my stories adds depth and darkness that complements the playful innocence at their surface.

Perhaps I ponder too deeply into narratives that, at their core, involve a couple of bears, a vole, shadowy forests, and wispy spirits. Yet, my storytelling naturally gravitates toward exploring profound themes, whether simple childhood fears of the dark or more complex philosophical musings like Nietzsche’s proclamation that “God is dead,” or wisdom from biblical Proverbs. It’s not merely a choice—it’s intrinsic to who I am as a storyteller. Now, equipped with concept art and clarity, I eagerly venture into these next seven days, guiding Teo boldly into the awaiting darkness.