Ashlesha is the star of the Nagas (Serpent Deities). It is located at the very end of Cancer, the watery sign of emotion. The symbol is a Coiled Serpent, representing potential energy (Kundalini), secrecy, and the power to constrict or "cling." The Nagas are semi-divine beings who live in the underworld (Patala) and guard vast treasures. They are wise, mystical, and dangerous if provoked. The mythology of the Nagas tells us they are the keepers of the "Amrita" (nectar of immortality) and hold the secrets of the earth. This makes Ashlesha natives natural guardians of secrets and occult knowledge. They have a penetrating gaze that can see through lies. Like a snake, they are sensitive to vibrations and can sense danger long before it arrives. The "clinging" aspect (Ashlesha means "The Entwiner") refers to the snake wrapping around its prey, but also to the ivy wrapping around a tree. Ashlesha natives have a hard time letting go. They attach deeply to people, ideas, or places. This can manifest as possessiveness or immense loyalty. There is a story of the churning of the ocean, where the serpent Vasuki was used as the rope. This shows that Ashlesha energy is often used as a tool for great cosmic processes, enduring friction to produce nectar. However, the poison (Halahala) also came out of the serpent's mouth. This duality of Poison and Nectar is central to Ashlesha. They can be healers (using venom as medicine) or they can be toxic. Ashlesha is ruled by Mercury, the planet of intellect. This creates a "Thinking Feeler." Their emotions are processed through a sharp, calculating mind. They are the master manipulators, not necessarily for evil, but because they understand human psychology better than anyone else.