The Tale of a Dream in Nanke

There was a man named Chunyu Fen who enjoyed drinking. In his courtyard, there was a large and flourishing locust tree, providing a cool spot to rest on summer nights when the moon was bright and the evening breeze gentle.

On Chunyu Fen's birthday, friends and family came to celebrate, and he became quite happy and had a few extra drinks. Late at night, after everyone had left, Chunyu Fen, in a slightly intoxicated state, found himself resting under the locust tree and unknowingly fell asleep.

In his dream, Chunyu Fen was invited by two officials to enter a tree hole. Inside the hole, there was a beautiful world known as the Great Locust Kingdom. Coincidentally, the imperial city was holding examinations to select government officials, and Chunyu Fen decided to participate. He excelled in the three rounds of exams, showcasing his exceptional writing skills. When the exam results were announced, he ranked first. Subsequently, he faced an interview with the emperor.

The emperor was greatly impressed by Chunyu Fen's handsome appearance and talent, and he personally appointed him as the top scholar and married him to the princess. The top scholar became a nobleman, and his story spread throughout the imperial city.

After marriage, Chunyu Fen and his wife enjoyed a blissful relationship. Before long, he was appointed as the magistrate of Nankuo County by the emperor. Chunyu Fen governed diligently, caring for the people. He frequently investigated and inspected the work of his subordinates, ensuring efficient and clean administration throughout the region, earning high praise from the local residents.

Thirty years passed, and Chunyu Fen's political achievements had become renowned nationwide. He had five sons and two daughters, and his life was filled with contentment. The emperor considered recalling Chunyu Fen to the capital for promotion, but upon hearing this, the local residents gathered in the streets, blocking the magistrate's carriage and insisting that he stay in Nankuo. Touched by the people's affection, Chunyu Fen had no choice but to remain and submit a report to the emperor explaining the situation.

The emperor admired his achievements and rewarded him with numerous treasures of gold and silver as a token of appreciation.

One year, the neighboring country of Shanluo invaded the Great Locust Kingdom. The generals of the kingdom were ordered to meet the enemy, but they suffered repeated defeats. The news of the defeats reached the capital, alarming the emperor. He urgently summoned the civil and military officials to discuss countermeasures. The ministers, hearing about the continuous military losses on the frontlines and the fierce advance of the enemy towards the capital, were filled with fear and helplessness.

Observing the ministers' reactions, the emperor became extremely angry and said, "You all live a life of luxury and comfort, enjoying prosperity, but when the country faces difficulties, you become speechless and cowardly. What good are you?" At that moment, the prime minister remembered Chunyu Fen, the distinguished magistrate of Nankuo, and recommended him to the emperor. The emperor immediately issued an order for Chunyu Fen to command the elite forces of the nation and fight against the enemy.

Upon receiving the emperor's command, Chunyu Fen promptly led his troops into battle. However, he had no knowledge of military strategy, and as soon as his forces engaged the enemy, they suffered a devastating defeat. His soldiers suffered heavy losses, and Chunyu Fen himself narrowly escaped being captured. When the emperor learned of the news, he was greatly disappointed and ordered the removal of all Chunyu Fen's titles, demoting him to a commoner, and sending him back to his hometown.

Chunyu Fen, realizing that his once glorious reputation had been destroyed in an instant, felt a mix of shame and anger. He let out a loud cry and woke up from his dream. He saw his servants cleaning the courtyard, while two friends were washing their feet nearby. The last rays of the setting sun lingered on the walls, and it seemed as though the experiences from his dream had spanned an entire lifetime.

Chunyu Fen shared his dream with everyone, and they were all amazed. Together, they went to the locust tree and discovered that it was indeed a nest of ants. A group of ants resided there. Next to the ant nest, there was a tunnel leading to the southern branch, and there was another small ant hole. The dream references to "Nankuo County" and the "Great Locust Kingdom" suddenly made sense!

(less than 120 words)