Chapter 1: Mysterious scriptwriter

The grand hall of the Sunlight Theater this year attracted not only audiences but also the brightest stars in the industry. The atmosphere was both solemn and vibrant, enveloping the entire venue.

“And now, we will move on to the most important award of the night: Best Actor!” The host’s voice rang out, capturing everyone’s attention towards the stage.

Julian Pierce, the youngest Film Emperor in cinema history with a handsome appearance and confident demeanor, sat in the front row. He wore a sleek black suit, standing out among the other glittering stars. Despite having experienced many significant moments in his career, his heart still pounded when he heard the name of this award.

“The winner of the Best Actor award is... Julian Pierce !”

The host announced, and applause and cheers immediately erupted throughout the auditorium. Julian Pierce stood up, a radiant smile appearing on his sculpted face. He walked up to the stage amid continuous applause, receiving the golden trophy from the host.

“Thank you, thank you very much!”

He said, his voice filled with joy.

“Julian Pierce, how do you feel at this moment?” The host asked, directing the microphone towards him.

“It’s hard to put into words,” Julian Pierce replied, his eyes sparkling.

“This is one of the most memorable moments of my life. I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me, from family and friends to all the beloved audience.”

“Do you want to share anything about the role that helped you win this award?”

A reporter standing nearby quickly asked.

“It was a challenging role that required a lot of effort.”

Julian Pierce said.

“I learned a lot from this character and am truly grateful for the opportunity to express myself through this film.”

Cheers and applause continued to erupt. Another reporter eagerly asked:

“Can you reveal a bit about your future plans, Julian Pierce ?”

“Of course,” Julian Pierce smiled.

“I will continue to strive, constantly learning and developing. I hope to bring many impressive roles and continue to receive everyone’s love.”

As the ceremony ended, Julian Pierce was surrounded by a crowd of fans and reporters. Camera flashes flickered continuously, and calls of his name resounded non-stop.

“Julian Pierce ! Look over here a bit!”

“Julian Pierce, what do you think about this victory?”

Amidst the crowd, his assistant and bodyguards tried to clear a path to lead him out.

“Please make way! Please make way!”

The assistant and bodyguards said as they guided Julian Pierce through the throng.

After exiting the hall, Julian Pierce ’s assistant, Lucas Grant, immediately spoke to him:

“Minh, we have another schedule tonight.”

“What schedule? I thought tonight I could rest?”

Julian Pierce asked, taking off his tie.

“A meeting with screenwriter Liam Brooks. Do you remember? The genius screenwriter who won the Best Screenwriter award for three consecutive years. After that, he retired from the public eye and hasn’t participated in any other projects.”

Julian Pierce ’s eyes lit up with curiosity.

“Oh, I remember. I heard he’s very mysterious, no one knows what he’s up to now. So, where did he arrange to meet us?”

“At his private residence. It will just be you and him,” Lucas Grant  replied, unable to hide a hint of anxiety in his voice.

“An interesting screenwriter, I’m a bit curious. Let’s go!”

Julian Pierce said, clearly showing his excitement.

When the car stopped in front of an ancient house, Julian Pierce stepped out, looking around.

The surroundings were quite quiet, the dim light casting a ghostly ambiance that sent a chill down his spine.

The door swung open, and the famous and mysterious screenwriter appeared with a warm, approachable smile. Whenever he smiled, small wrinkles appeared around the corners of his eyes, adding to his friendly and trustworthy demeanor.

"Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you, Julian Pierce !"

The deep, warm voice resonated from the doorway.

"Hello, Screenwriter Liam Brooks!"

Julian Pierce maintained a friendly smile on his face, captivating those around him.

"Please come in."

The middle-aged screenwriter opened the door wider to welcome the young actor.

As he stepped inside, Julian Pierce couldn't help but be amazed by the peculiar atmosphere of the room. Abstract paintings covered the walls, and old oil lamps created a blend of classic and mysterious ambiance. The dim light from the oil lamps added to the somber atmosphere, making it feel like an entirely different world from the reality outside.

"Have a seat, Julian Pierce ."

Liam Brooks said, pointing to a large, dark brown leather armchair. "I wrote a screenplay inspired by you."

"Oh, what an honor!"

Julian Pierce said with a smile, though his eyes revealed a mix of curiosity and slight apprehension.

Liam Brooks stepped closer, holding a thick script. He handed it to Julian Pierce, his sharp eyes looking straight into his, as if gauging his reaction.

"This is the work 'The King's Lover,' a story about a heroic king and his male concubine, Ethan Caelan," Liam Brooks said, his deep voice full of authority.

Julian Pierce opened the script and skimmed through the first few pages. A heroic king, with a beautiful male concubine named Ethan Caelan... But Ethan Caelan is the prince of a rival kingdom who ends up being imprisoned by the king he loves until his death.

"That's right, a story full of tragedy and emotion," Liam Brooks interrupted, a half-smile appearing on his face. "And you will play Ethan Caelan."

"What? Me? Play Ethan Caelan?"

Julian Pierce was so surprised he nearly dropped the script. "Not the king?"

"That's right, Ethan Caelan. I believe you will portray this role perfectly," Liam Brooks said, his eyes gleaming with challenge.

"I can somewhat understand," Julian Pierce said thoughtfully. "Ethan Caelan is a complex character, full of contradictions."

"He has to struggle between love and loyalty, between life and death."

"Exactly, and you need to convey those emotions," Liam Brooks said, his eyes filled with hope. "Now, let's try the first scene."

Julian Pierce shook his head, placing the script on the table with determination.

"No, I can't take the role of Ethan Caelan."

Liam Brooks looked at Julian Pierce, surprised by his clear refusal.

"Why not?"