One of the cutest creatures in Skyward Sword is the little cat-like creatures of Skyloft: Remlits. At night, they may be a ferocious little beast that hinders Link’s journey, but in the day they are adorable bundles of fur that mew and look up at Link with eyes that are hard to ignore. One cry from the little daylight Remlits and you almost forget they were monsters the night before. The only failing of the game is that you can’t pet them. Sure you can pick them up, start a choir with them with your harp, and even throw them off the cliff if you desire, but there is no animation for Link to kneel down and give the little Remlits a pet.
Our desires are answered by artist CaptainNutmeg in their perfectly named piece: “Remlit pettin’”. In this traditionally crafted artwork, Link kneels on a soft patch of grass with a little Remlit at his feet. The Remlit’s eyes are closed, paired with a soft blissful smile as Link pets its head. Though most of Link’s face is covered by the golden locks of his hair, a little smile breaks free. No matter the hardships, the pain, or the stress of his adventure, these little creatures always greet with a smile and a sound of pure joy…at least during the day.
A moment of appreciation has to go to CaptainNutmeg’s use of the medium. This piece was crafted with markers during a time they were still testing and practicing different techniques. They had limited color options, but that didn’t stop them from shading and creating dynamic tones. The piece might not have the bright watercolor aesthetic of Skyward Sword, instead we have a washed out palette akin to a memory. The little snapshot is as if someone took a photo or painted a piece and it has now faded over time, a distant memory amongst the chaos of adventure. Even so, the small expressions found within and the smiles that look upon each other capture a brightness within.
And just like that, you’re smiling too and desire to launch your copy of Skyward Sword, so you can hear that little Remlit mew. Maybe pick them up, and watch their adorable faces. Maybe get out your harp and watch a group of them sing along. They may seem small and insignificant, but those little passing by moments are what makes the world come to life. You’re not just saving Zelda. You’re saving them too.
