Saint Seiya: The True Person Who Turned Ikki into a Demon Was Gemini Saga
When Phoenix Ikki first appeared in Saint Seiya, he was far from a benevolent warrior. Instead, he embodied a deeply malevolent spirit, rivaling even the wickedness of Cancer Deathmask. While Ikki’s dark transformation is often attributed to his mysterious mentor, Guilty, the true architect of his corruption lies elsewhere—with the Gemini Gold Saint, Saga.
The Mystery of Guilty
According to Ikki’s memories, Guilty played a pivotal role in shaping his hatred and ruthlessness. However, Guilty’s identity remains shrouded in mystery. What truly matters is not who he was, but what happened to him. As revealed by his daughter, Esmeralda, Guilty was not always a cruel man. His descent into darkness began after a visit to the Sanctuary, where he met the Pope—who was, unbeknownst to many, the Gemini Gold Saint Saga in disguise, after the assassination of the true Pope, Shion.
Saga’s Manipulation Beyond Mind Control
While Saga possessed the terrifying ability to manipulate minds, as seen with Leo Aiolia—who broke free from control after witnessing a death—Guilty’s case was different. Even when Esmeralda died, Guilty showed no change in behavior. This indicates he was not under Saga’s direct mental influence but was instead a willing follower, carrying out Saga’s orders with unwavering loyalty.
The Puppet Master’s Plan
Guilty was, in essence, a pawn in Saga’s grand scheme. Sent to train Ikki, his mission was to mold the Phoenix Saint into a weapon of hatred and destruction. Guilty understood that success would mean his own death at Ikki’s hands, yet he persisted, driven by fanatical devotion to Saga’s authority. Under this brutal guidance, Ikki’s heart festered with rage, perfectly aligning with Saga’s vision of a ruthless enforcer.
The Power of Redemption
What Saga didn’t anticipate was the unwavering idealism of Pegasus Seiya. With a few heartfelt words, Seiya managed to reawaken Ikki’s buried humanity, challenging the hatred that had been so carefully cultivated. This turnaround highlights a classic theme: even the deepest darkness can be pierced by light. Without Seiya’s intervention, Ikki would have undoubtedly become one of Saga’s most formidable agents. Yet, destiny—and perhaps a touch of “protagonist power”—had other plans.
Ikki’s journey from villain to hero remains one of the most compelling arcs in Saint Seiya, reminding us that our true enemies are often those who pull the strings from the shadows.
