I don’t know whether this is a hot take or not, but here it is: Spirit Tracks features one of the best Link and Zelda relationships in the whole series. Part of this is likely due to the fact that Zelda plays a consistent, present role in Link’s adventure. Despite being a literal specter after being separated from her body, Zelda repeatedly helps the hero by donning the guise of the hulking Phantom guards. By the time that Malladus is defeated, the pair have been through the trials and terrors of dungeons, puzzles, and beasts, and even though there’s no romance, they are clearly friends. It’s this friendship that Aquanut shows in their art “Watch Over This Land”.
The setting of this piece reveals a lot to the audience. The soft, gentle pinks and purples of the sky convey a feeling of calm. There’s no deep reds heralding the danger of a blood moon or other calamity. The battle has been won, and the use of color shows that. The Tower of Spirits also stretches into the sky, reaching its full height. The fact that this structure is whole reveals the lack of conflict as well as it’s only once Malladus has been defeated and all the land’s dungeons conquered, that the Tower of Spirits sits intact. It’s very existence is a monument to the success of Link and Zelda’s journey.
Looking to the heroic pair, there are many things to analyze. Both Link and Zelda are in regalia similar to their Toon looks. Their backs are also to the audience as they stare at the previously discussed beautiful sky and tower. The sight reminds them of their journey. Every monster they’ve faced, every puzzle they’ve solved, and every moment of peril lies in the past while being brought to mind by the tower in front of them. Most importantly, Link and Zelda’s hands are clasped together. This has been a journey that they could not have done alone. Without Link, Zelda’s spirit would have remained adrift in the ether and her body inhabited by Malladus. Without Zelda, Link would have been stumped by one of the many challenges that required Zelda’s help or slain by a monster needing a Phantom Armored princess’s touch. The hands reveal the intense friendship that has developed over the course of the journey.
“Watch Over This Land” is both the title of this piece and the mandate given to the hero and princess. Having conquered Malladus, peace has been won, but danger always lurks in the future. Thankfully, this pair have built a partnership tested in trials. Whatever threat may arise, they will meet and defeat it.
