Link and Zelda Reunited Final?

© Copyright Rachel Torres. All rights reserved.
(This specific image only, not original character designs or story.)
Please do not use or alter this image without permission.

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UPDATE 1/20/12: Link and Zelda are finally done! Lighting effects added. I still welcome any critiques/corrections!

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First and foremost, I credit all original character designs and back stories to Nintendo. This is merely fan art. I wanted to pay tribute to the game that inspired me to become a game artist and animator. I am forever thankful that I could always lose myself in the world of Zelda and Link, and feel as if I am a part of their existence.

This picture does not relate to any Zelda game specifically. I mainly wanted to depict the moment in most Zelda games where Link comes to Zelda's aid and rescues her from the grasp of the evil Ganon. Due to Link's heroic efforts, Ganon is defeated and Zelda is free at last. Ganon is slain, and now Link and Zelda are free to love each other in a safe and tame world. This is the moment when Link and Zelda are first reunited and embrace. I wanted a feeling of suspense. I wanted fans to take that deep breath that the couple would take right before their much overdue kiss that they have longed for over a time that seemed like an eternity. I wanted to show their passion, their love. I wanted fans to feel like part of the love story that has provided entertainment and inspiration for so many, many years. Their love is infinite and will always epitomize a true love story.

Thank you, and I welcome any well thought critiques.

PS. I realize that in the games, we never really get to see this moment, but this is how I always imagined it.

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This is the original outline.
fav.me/d3g7x93

Compilation Spread: racheltorres921.deviantart.com…
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I forgot to mention credit for Navi at first. Sorry. Thank you for the brush:
thegeminisage.deviantart.com/a…