The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
COMPETITION PREP. Cerena Karmaliani, Henry Hilton, Maya Sachs, David Schumacher, and Henry Choi celebrate at the Districts Qualifier tournament in December. SPA Debate earned the top two of three spots for Nationals, which will take place in June in Phoenix, AZ.
Debate pairs win eligibility for Nationals after successful December qualifier
February 6, 2023
VALUES. As the search for a new principal is underway, one of the most important questions is: what is important to SPA community members in the search process?
Fourth principal search in five years begins
February 5, 2023
SHOWING GRATITUDE. Glaser receives one of many thank yous after his presentation.
Son of two Holocaust survivors, Tom Glaser shared history
February 3, 2023
WHERE TO DRAW THE LINE. After a Hamline University professor was dismissed for showing a painting depicting the Muslim prophet Muhammad, some are questioning whether dismissal was the right choice. Flickr CC image: jpellgen
Hamline under fire for dismissing professor
February 2, 2023
Jaffe brings community together mid-quarter to encourage support
Jaffe brings community together mid-quarter to encourage support
January 31, 2023
BIG BLOCK. Senior Solvej Eversoll jumps and blocks a serve from the opposing team. Eversoll plays for the Northern Lights volleyball club when the high-school season is not in session.
Club sports build competitiveness, relationships, athletic success
January 30, 2023
Spartans fail to beat Breck in second match-up, lose in overtime
Spartans fail to beat Breck in second match-up, lose in overtime
January 25, 2023
Metro-South falls to Apple Valley in anticipated rematch
Metro-South falls to Apple Valley in anticipated rematch
January 23, 2023
The Spartans standing for the national anthem pre-game.
Girls basketball dominates Nova 49-25
January 20, 2023
Fencings first tournament leads to SPA dominance
Fencing’s first tournament leads to SPA dominance
January 17, 2023
SPARTAN PRIDE. Captains Maryeva Gonzalez, Heidi Deuel and Lindsay Browne join head coach in Aileen Guiney in displaying the trophy to their fans.
GVS concludes memorable season
November 8, 2022
WE ARE THE (STATE) CHAMPIONS. The team celebrates their accomplishment after captains Nathan Cohen, Cooper Bollinger Danielson and Yash Kshirsagar present the plaque to the group.
BVS makes history with fifth state championship title
November 5, 2022
THE SPARTANS SUCCEED. After the end of the shootout, the team crowds goalie Lindsay Browne in celebration.
It’s not over yet: GVS defeats Breck in state semi-final
November 3, 2022
CHAMPIONSHIP BOUND. Senior Finn Sullivan and captain Nathan Cohen rejoice after a well-deserved win.
Championship bound: BVS advances in state tournament
November 2, 2022
LETs RECAP. With the conclusion of most fall sports, with the exception of teams currently in section or state tournaments, the highlights (and lowlights) of each team are shared with the community.
2022 Fall sports recap: Wins, losses, and teamwork
October 27, 2022
Spartans fail to beat Breck in second match-up, lose in overtime
Spartans fail to beat Breck in second match-up, lose in overtime
January 25, 2023
Metro-South falls to Apple Valley in anticipated rematch
Metro-South falls to Apple Valley in anticipated rematch
January 23, 2023
The Spartans standing for the national anthem pre-game.
Girls basketball dominates Nova 49-25
January 20, 2023
Fencings first tournament leads to SPA dominance
Fencing’s first tournament leads to SPA dominance
January 17, 2023
TAKE THE SHOT. Captain Ethan Carter sets up for a shot after receiving a pass from Captain Tysen Hayes.
[PHOTO STORY] Spartan basketball beats Roosevelt, continues winning streak
January 12, 2023
GO SPARTANS. Spring athletes talk season dynamics as the seasons come to their end.
Spring sports wrap up: The Rubicon recap
May 26, 2022
[STRIKING VOLLEY] Freshman Jacob Colton high-fives sophomore Baasit Mahmood after a strong finish to a point.
[PHOTO GALLERY] With a 4:3 victory against the Panthers, boys Spartan tennis seeds to state
May 26, 2022
RUNNING THE BASES. Georgia Ross surveys the infield as she sprints to second base.
SPA softball: a Cinderella story for the books
May 22, 2022
Joined golf team? That means early dismissals all spring
Joined golf team? That means early dismissals all spring
May 20, 2022
With spring arriving Glisczinski peddles hard to blaze through the trail near his house.
For Glisczinski biking is more then exercise, it’s a lifestyle
May 19, 2022
MAKING NEWS. Utilizing news sources is a convenient way to make classroom content more relevant and to start conversations about current events. Both teachers and students can contribute to incorporating news media into school spaces by bringing them into classes, clubs and student groups, and daily conversations.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] It is time to learn about current events in school
January 31, 2023
Top 5 Opinion Stories of 2022.
Top 5 opinion stories of 2022
January 8, 2023
DEFICIT SPENDING. Although compulsive shopping is not considered a mental illness, in most cases it is used to mask other types of mental distress.
Retail therapy is a destructive coping mechanism
December 16, 2022
FOR MY FAVORITE TEACHER... While bonding with teachers is important for building a strong school community, students must be wary of crossing the line between being comfortable with teachers and being unintentionally disrespectful. Students must show their appreciation for their teachers through their actions, not only their words.
Find the balance between rapport and respect in the classroom
December 9, 2022
These artists actions are not mistakes that deserve forgiveness
These artist’s actions are not mistakes that deserve forgiveness
December 8, 2022
MAKING NEWS. Utilizing news sources is a convenient way to make classroom content more relevant and to start conversations about current events. Both teachers and students can contribute to incorporating news media into school spaces by bringing them into classes, clubs and student groups, and daily conversations.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] It is time to learn about current events in school
January 31, 2023
HIGHER GROUND. Putting the experiences of visible and invisible diversity on the same level diminishes the oppression that minority groups actually face. Instead of searching for reasons to consider oneself a minority, acknowledge where privilege is held and where it can be used to make a difference.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Oppression is not a competition: recognize privilege to create change
December 7, 2022
STAR OF DAVID. The Star of David is one of the most visible symbols of Judaism and one senior Lillith Greene-Freeman said, in her speech, that she hesitates to wear some days.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Antisemitism is on the rise. Let’s do something about it.
December 1, 2022
BALANCING ACT. As teenagers grow older, it becomes increasingly more difficult to juggle responsibilities and mistakes are taken more seriously. However, parents shouldn’t take this as a reason to restrict their children’s freedom; instead, having more responsibilities is an opportunity to demonstrate independence and self-management skills.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Encourage teenage independence
October 25, 2022
Students do not want to lose what is working for them in the schedule and are hoping to keep aspects that have worked well in the past.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Get your voice in the schedule discussions
October 19, 2022
Two Ferraris showcased at the Esperienza event linger in the driveway. The event, arranged by Jackley and her team, was meant to show off the luxurious lifestyle that Ferrari embodies.
[WORK/LIFE] Kaylee Jackley talks marketing for Twin Cities Ferrari
February 3, 2023
GULP. Junior Leo Benson sips on his favorite water bottle during the school day.
Thirsty? Fill it up.
February 2, 2023
QUICK TIPS. When visiting SPA on Jan. 26, Mark Murray led the Rubicon, RubicOnline and Ibid staffs in a photography workshop to teach them simple ways to elevate their skills and capture images that impact their audience.
Mark Murray inspires publications to paint with light
January 31, 2023
Freshman Fletcher Coblentz calls his grandmother on the phone, finding that eight minutes go by quickly.
8 minutes a day keeps the scaries away
January 23, 2023
Senior Evan Holmes uses his work with the Twin Cities Democratic Socialists of America to address and make progress regarding issues that matter to him like healthcare accessibility and police reform.
Holmes pursues passion for politics and social issues
January 20, 2023
MAKE A NEW PLAYLIST. Music is all around: on the Huss stage, headphones during a study session, and everywhere in between. So, its important to create playlists that suit every mood and environment.
Seven tips for crafting a new playlist
February 3, 2023
AMAZING ARTISTRY. Junior Reilly Ringness applies his love for art to a unique format: tattoo design. Among the designs he has completed for friends and family, one of his favorite designs is the coy fish.
Everlasting art: Ringness crafts tattoo designs
February 3, 2023
(SPA SmugMug)
One Acts bring absurdist comedy to the Huss stage
February 1, 2023
While each track Though each track on Five Easy Hot Dogs is alone repetitive, the album’s sound isnt droning or boring; DeMarco never settles into one place for too long before picking up and hitting the road again.
[ALBUM REVIEW] Mac DeMarco chooses the rhythm of the road with Five Easy Hot Dogs
January 30, 2023
SUSHI SPREAD. Each dish meets the level of freshness expected of conveyor belt sushi, in addition to all having incredible flavor. The edamame was a perfect precursor to sushi, and each plate seemed to out-do the last. The Mexican roll’s jalepeño dressing set the dish apart and the cilantro garnish offered an additional level of texture to each bite. The crunchy crab roll was light and tasty, and the shrimp tempura roll was mouth-wateringly delicious. The dragon roll, a medley of shrimp, eel, avocado and cucumber, formed the perfect combination.
[AROUND TOWN] Hop on the Sushi Train
January 24, 2023
While each track Though each track on Five Easy Hot Dogs is alone repetitive, the album’s sound isnt droning or boring; DeMarco never settles into one place for too long before picking up and hitting the road again.
[ALBUM REVIEW] Mac DeMarco chooses the rhythm of the road with Five Easy Hot Dogs
January 30, 2023
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION. Kaleidoscope was released on Netflix on Jan. 1, 2023 after building up hype across social media platforms.
[TV REVIEW] Kaleidoscope’s unique viewing experience disappoints
January 19, 2023
MILLION DOLLAR BABY. In the official video, Ava Max performs on stage at the Diamonds and Dancefloors club.
[TRACK REVIEW] Singles from Diamonds & Dancefloors suggest strong album from artist Ava Max
January 3, 2023
BACK IN BLACK. Wednesday’s sudden ascendence to the top of Netflix’s most-watched is worth savoring whilst its vogue lasts.
[TV REVIEW] Wednesday is delightful in its delectable darkness
December 20, 2022
CALL SAUL. From the acting to the cinematography, this series consistently finds ways to outdo itself.
[TV REVIEW] Catch up on Better Call Saul as sixth season drops
December 15, 2022
[QUIZ] Let it snow? Maybe tomorrow.
[QUIZ] Let it snow? Maybe tomorrow.
November 28, 2022
SHINING STAR. Swift released the video to Bejeweled Oct. 24 and it has garnered nearly 9 million views. Swift will perform in Minneapolis Aug. 23-24, 2023.
Swift Announces the Eras Tour, new dates in Minneapolis
November 15, 2022
Its Scholastic Journalism Week: What does scholastic journalism mean to me?
QUIZ: [HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW]… the RubicOnline?
March 11, 2020
Members hop over the bench to get on the ice and play.
QUIZ: Have you been paying attention to the sports section?
January 16, 2020
Take this quiz to see some study tips just for you.
QUIZ: Which study tip should you try this Midterm?
December 9, 2019
Reflecting on MLK Day of Service
Reflecting on MLK Day of Service
January 23, 2023
Top 5 videos of 2022.
Top five videos of 2022
January 13, 2023
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Senior George Peltier prepares for his final Calculus 1 exam.
[2 SIDES 1 ISSUE] Should in-person tests or projects be used for midterm and final exams?
December 5, 2022
Senior Tommy Verhey gives an update on this week’s current events.
[60 SECOND NEWS] College Football Playoff, SPA hockey and basketball
November 30, 2022
The Trojan Women tech crew shines light on the backstage experience
The Trojan Women tech crew shines light on the backstage experience
November 30, 2022
What song is most meaningful to you?
February 6, 2023
THROUGH THEIR EYES. On episode four of the podcast, Eliana Mann interviews senior Lily Malloy and junior Wafa Naqvi about whether or not they believe in life after death.
[THROUGH THEIR EYES] Ep. 4: Do you believe in life after death?
February 1, 2023
Top 5 podcasts of 2022
Top 5 podcasts of 2022
January 14, 2023
[History of SPA] Ep. 2 The evolution of SPA
[History of SPA] Ep. 2 The evolution of SPA
January 6, 2023
[THROUGH THEIR EYES] Ep. 3: What makes a good friend?
[THROUGH THEIR EYES] Ep. 3: What makes a good friend?
December 9, 2022
January 2023 Issue
January 31, 2023
December 2022 Issue
December 6, 2022
October 2022 Issue
October 25, 2022
September 2022 Issue
September 27, 2022
May 2022 Issue
May 24, 2022
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
Elle Chen

Elle Chen, co-Director of RubicOnline

Elle Chen (she/her) is a co-Director of RubicOnline. This is her fourth year on staff. Over the summer, Elle interned at NSPA to help plan journalism conventions, create a book and learn about yearbook spreads. Recently, Elle has found a new passion for playing cards and spending more time with her family and friends. Elle can be reached at [email protected]

All content by Elle Chen
It’s a piece about me, my identity, personal history, family and how my cultures- Israeli and Irish- combine. (senior Noa Ni Aolain Gross)

[PHOTO STORY] Senior Art Seminar AWAKE connects us all

April 29, 2022
NEW BEGINNINGS. Upper School counselor Susanna Short has been working at SPA since 2010. As her 12th year at SPA comes to an end, Ms. Short will be moving to New Mexico with her wife and starting a private practice. There, she hopes to work with adolescents and adults from across the country.

Words of wisdom: to and from Susanna Short

April 29, 2022
SUPPORTING UKRAINE. From reading the news to donating to participating in marches, Barchuk believes that support doesn’t need to be hindered by the distance that lies between St. Paul and Ukraine.

Distance? Barchuk proves that everyone can support Ukraine

April 15, 2022
In this episode, senior Elle Chen interviews senior Pah Na about his language learning experience of Karen as his first language.

The Language Learning Process: Ep. 5 Language Spoken at Home – Karen

April 4, 2022
DOUBLE JOY. Co-Director Elizabeth Trevathan smiles as she receives her Journalist of the Year award. Trevathan said, I think 9th grade me is freaking out right now. It feels very strange… very surreal.

Co-Director Elizabeth Trevathan named 2022 Minnesota Journalist of the Year

March 12, 2022
A MILLION MEMORIES. On one side of Waibels award-winning slab vase, she incorporated a youthful baby bunny that reminds her of the vegetables and fruits she and her brother used to pick.

Waibel shares her youth through MSAA Gold Key ceramics slab vase

February 24, 2022
INCLUSIVITY. For years, it’s been a tradition for seniors to wear blazers, dresses, or pantsuits at graduation. But as the times change, attire should change as well.

Opinion Board sparks discussion about graduation attire as USC’s revision makes its way to Head of School

February 17, 2022
What do you love?

What do you love?

February 14, 2022
As part of their initiative to spread awareness, the OIF creates a list of the most banned and challenged books each year.

Five banned books to read right now

February 14, 2022
ASA X MUSLIM AFFINITY GROUP. During Tutorial, ASA and the Muslim Affinity Group joined hands in the Chinese classroom. Senior Pah Na said, The event today was kind of a mess but it was fun and there were lots of people and more importantly food which is what brought us together. We couldn’t have a stove due to fire concerns but hopefully next time we can have a more official banquet in the dining hall.

[PHOTO STORY] Asian Student Alliance and Muslim Affinty Groups gather for himbasha, dumplings and more

January 21, 2022
YUM-BASHA. Himbasha is an Ethiopian Flatbread. With a slightly sweet taste, some Himbasha can be plain or garnished with raisins, ginger and more. Often served on special occasions, himbasha was perfect for this special ASA and Muslim Affinity Group get-together.

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GATEWAY TO FUN. While sharing all types of delicious cuisine, students also conversed about themselves. In particular, one interesting conversation that sparked as Na and junior Zoe Cheng Pinto ate flatbread and drank Boba was Buddhism. Although Na is Karen and Cheng Pinto is part Hong Kongese, both shared stories about their experiences as temples in the Twin Cities.

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FIRST HOME. In 2009, Shaughnessy was adopted from India at the age of four. At her orphanage, Moushi women took care of her. This photo was taken on the day that Shaughnessy was adopted.

Shaughnessy heals through the revival of adoptee affinity group Love & Grace

January 19, 2022
TEAMWORK, DREAM WORK. Seniors Annika Brelsford, Pah Na, Grant Mortenson, Will Sedo and more, hop on Nas large blue sled together as they speed down the hill. Na said, I brought my own sled which was nice and we were able to get five people on the sled at once going down the hill. I was on top of Grant’s shoulders. I thought it was really fun, it was great to see everyone out there wiping out or chilling with their hot chocolate.

[PHOTO STORY] Outdoor Club’s Sledding Extravaganza attracts largest crowd in years

January 14, 2022

Check the news and reflect

January 6, 2022
HAPPY HANNUKAH. This year, Hannukah went from Nov. 28, to Dec. 6. During todays tutorial, Mishpacha hosted a schoolwide Hannukah party in the small gym to celebrate.

[PHOTO STORY] Mishpacha’s Hanukkah party helps students unwind before midterms

December 9, 2021
World hunger is complicated as it has several different levels that build upon each other.

[Photo] Hold on Elon Musk: six billion dollars can’t solve world hunger

December 3, 2021
UNEARTH THE TRUTH. Thanksgiving is known for its turkey and time with family, but it is important to recognize the roots of the holiday and how it affected indigenous people.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Recognize the history of Thanksgiving and celebrate Indigenous cultures instead

November 17, 2021
MY STORY, MY SONG. Reuben Kitto Stately talks to the 9-12 assembly about his experience as a native person growing up in the Twin Cities. Stately also shared his belief during Q&A that the best function of a white ally is to spread accurate information and “Just don’t stand in the way, then we will all be at peace.”

Reuben Kitto Stately introduces his Native narrative through rap

November 11, 2021
THE POWER OF DATA. Levitt is an SPA alumni and UChicago economics professor. He said, SPA can be a leader again. In his session Levitt shared personal anecdotes about his experience at SPA and in the professional world of data science and economics.

Renowned economist Steven Levitt returns to his alma mater with big data advice

November 6, 2021
All around town, neighbors lawns are getting decorated with Halloween decorations, horror movies are being advertised and haunted houses are being visited. But nothing seems just as horrific as these hair stories.

Horror lover? Wait until you hear these hair stories.

October 16, 2021
Senior Marie Schumacher swims her first inidividual event of the night which is the 200 freestyle.

SPARKS flip turn to the end of their season with last conference meet

October 15, 2021
Senior Ellie Sandeen prepares to get on the blocks for her first individual event, the 200 IM.

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During the first relay of the night, the SPARKS had a strong swim but were unfortunately disqualified.

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Seniors Divya Bhargava, Eleanor Smith and Marie Schumacher purple out during the school day for their meet.

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On the deck, the SPARKS cheer on their teamates as they race.

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From head to toe, seniors Divya Bhargava, Eleanor Smith and Marie Schumacher purple out.

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Senior Divya Bhargave even tie-dyed her socks the Sparks colors for the special occasion.

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The varsity girls prepare for their first relay of the night, the 200 Medley.

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Senior Marie Schumacher keeps her head down as she heads for the last turn of her race.

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The SPARKS gather around their coach to carefully inspect the swim schdule, making sure they dont miss their event.

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Before the meet starts, the Sparks get together to do their cheer. The SPARKS are a co-op swim and dive team with Highland Park.

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In honor of the seniors last meet, SPARKS coach prepared small gifts and flowers for each of the seniors.

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The relay begins. The backstrokers dive into the water and begin not only the first leg of the race but also swim the first lap of the meet.

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Unique from the three other strokes, backstrokers start their race in the pool instead of on the blocks.

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Senior Ellie Sandeen stands on the block, getting ready to jump in.

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During the relay, swimmers must time themselves perfectly. Just as the previous swimmer touches the wall, the next swimmer jumps in.

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Senior Ellie Sandeen has a little over 50 yards left of her 200 IM left as she swims breaststroke to the wall.

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The SPARKS are a co-op swim and dive team with Highland Park.

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Every year, the seniors wear overalls and blue and gold Spartan gear to celebrate Homecoming.

It’s blue and it’s gold; the Homecoming spirit is back and alive

October 1, 2021
The senior overalls came in all different designs. Some with bandanas, others with flowers.

Seniors create overalls and foster the Spartan spirit

October 1, 2021
Every year, the senior class designs overalls for Homecoming. This year, the class of 2022 did not dissapoint.

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Pictured from left to right, seniors Lily Ellis, Mia Hofmann, James Montague and Lucie Bond.

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From left to right: seniors Henry Burkhardt, Levi Smetana, Divya Bhargava and Esther Allen.

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With the influence of George Floyd’s death in 2020, the argument of defunding the police has never risen so high before.

[Photo] Minnesota Supreme Court overturns lower judge: Police Department Amendment is officially added to the state ballot

September 28, 2021
[MUSIC PODCAST] Sih plays the Baroque-n strings of the violin

[MUSIC PODCAST] Sih plays the Baroque-n strings of the violin

September 25, 2021
Not wanting such a horrible person to take possession of the xiandan, Chang’e gulped down both of the xiandan and ascended to the moon where she became a deity.

[CULTURES @SPA] Students celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with a moonful of food

September 20, 2021
The 2021 Alumni/ae Art Show, which is running from Sep. 10 through Oct. 29, and features four artists: Angela Carr 66, Ben Freyinger 96, Katherine Parfet 66, and Valerie Sands 81.

Passionate alumni/ae showcase work in art exhibit

September 18, 2021
Seniors Nina Starchook and Kat Bragg get ready to design their respective club boards.

[Photo] Bulletin Board Contest initiates friendly club rivalries

September 17, 2021
Remembering the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with SPA families, faculty and students.

Remembering 9/11 with SPA families

September 11, 2021
Locally in Minnesota, which had record-breaking droughts this summer, there have also been many large-scale wildfires around and in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) that left the area closed for the first time in 45 years.

BWCA wildfires intensify through dry summer; closed for the first time in 45 years

September 10, 2021
Thus from then on, Hou Yi mourned for his wife who was forever stuck on the moon. And because she liked mooncakes, Hou Yi set them up for her every year on lunar Aug. 15.

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As a reward, Guanyin pusa (a buddha) rewarded Hou Yi with two xiandan (elixirs) which would turn whoever ate them into a deity. Then, on Aug. 15, when Hou Yi went hunting, one of his apprentices, who knew about these xiandan, entered Hou Yi’s house and threatened his wife, Chang’e, to hand them over.

[Photo]

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