黄粱一梦 — “An illusory and transient dream of wealth and glory”

Once upon a time, there was a poor scholar named Lu Sheng, the protagonist of 'A Golden Millet Dream'. One day, at an inn in Handan, he encountered a Taoist priest named Lü Weng. Lu Sheng lamented to the priest about his impoverished and struggling life. Upon hearing this, Lü Weng produced a pillow and said, 'Rest your head on this, and all your wishes will be granted.' At that moment, the innkeeper was cooking golden millet rice. Lu Sheng, weary from his journey, drowsily lay down on the pillow Lü Weng had given him and fell asleep.

Soon, Lu Sheng entered a dream. He dreamt that he married a young, beautiful, kind, and gentle woman named Cui. Ms. Cui, a wealthy young lady, was virtuous and capable, helping Lu Sheng successfully embark on an official career and bearing him several children. Later, his children grew up, each living a comfortable and prosperous life, while Lu Sheng himself steadily rose through the ranks, eventually becoming prime minister. Years passed, and he had grandchildren and great-grandchildren, then retired to live as an elder statesman. He lived comfortably for over eighty years before passing away peacefully.

When Lu Sheng awoke from his dream, a faint smile of happiness still lingered on his lips. He opened his eyes and realized he was still in the small room of the inn; all the glory and wealth he had experienced were nothing more than a dream. The golden millet rice the innkeeper was cooking had not even finished cooking yet.