Cancer, the crab, had a very small role in mythology. After slaying the lion of Nemean, Hercules was ordered to kill the Hydra as his second quest. During Hercules' fight with the multi-headed Hydra, Hera sent down the crab as a distraction. The brave little crab rushed to the aid of the Hydra and dug its claws in the toe of Hercules. Hercules quickly crushed the crab with his foot and then finished off the Hydra. Hera awarded the brave crab a place in heaven despite his failure.