Zhang Sheng, a poor scholar, was on his way to the capital to take the imperial examinations. One evening, as dusk approached, he arrived at Black Wind Valley. There was no village ahead or inn behind, and he was so exhausted he could barely stay on his feet. Just as he was about to collapse, he spotted a farmhouse not far ahead, with smoke curling from its chimney and bright candlelight in its windows. Summoning his strength, he walked toward it, but collapsed just before reaching the door. The noise startled Meng Erniang, who was inside. She rescued Zhang Sheng, and from then on, the two began a passionate romance that shook heaven and earth.
