Saint Seiya’s Golden Saints: The Aquarius Gold Cloth
The Legacy of Aquarius in Saint Seiya
Today, we delve deeper into the world of Saint Seiya, focusing on the enigmatic Aquarius Gold Saint. Known for their mastery of ice-based techniques, the Aquarius Saints have left an indelible mark on the series, both in terms of power and narrative depth.
Camus and Hyoga: A Complex Mentor-Student Relationship
The relationship between Camus and Hyoga is one of the most intriguing in the series. Initially, there was some confusion in both the anime and manga regarding their exact relationship—whether Camus was Hyoga’s master or grandmaster. Over time, the narrative settled on the former, solidifying Hyoga’s lineage as a disciple of the Aquarius tradition.
Camus, the Aquarius Gold Saint, is renowned for his “Aurora Execution” technique, which can approach absolute zero (and even surpass it in newer adaptations). Interestingly, this move was mistranslated in early dubs as “Aurora Thunder Attack” or “Diamond Dust,” but fans have grown fond of these names despite their inaccuracies.
The Twelve Houses Arc: A Test of Loyalty
Camus was aware of the false Pope’s identity but initially doubted the Bronze Saints’ potential. During the Twelve Houses arc, he singled out Hyoga for a one-on-one battle, intending to teach him the vast gap between their powers. After defeating Hyoga, Camus sealed him in ice within the Libra Temple, hoping to revive him later without antagonizing the Pope or jeopardizing his legacy.
However, the Bronze Saints’ resilience—and their plot armor—proved too strong. Hyoga was rescued, and the group eventually reached Aquarius Temple. Camus, realizing the futility of his position, hoped Hyoga would defeat him, perhaps even sealing him in ice for a future return. Alas, Hyoga, infamous for his tendency to eliminate those close to him, delivered a fatal blow.
Legacy Across Generations
In Saint Seiya: The Lost Canvas, the Aquarius Saint Deuteros was a scholarly and composed figure, serving as the Pope’s advisor. His sacrifice to freeze Atlantis showcased his immense power, even if he never participated in the Holy War directly.
Conversely, Saint Seiya Ω introduced Tokisada, a lackluster Aquarius Saint who failed to live up to his predecessors’ legacy. His defeat at the hands of Genbu highlighted his inadequacy, cementing his reputation as the weakest Aquarius Saint.
Final Thoughts
The Aquarius Gold Saints embody a unique blend of intellect, power, and tragic nobility. From Camus’ mentorship to Deuteros’ sacrifice, their stories resonate with fans. And while Tokisada may have faltered, the legacy of Aquarius endures—proof that even absolute zero can’t freeze the impact of a true Gold Saint.
