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?"

"I want to portray bravery and strength, not a weak and tragic role like this," Julian Pierce said firmly.

Liam Brooks sighed, trying to remain calm.

"Julian Pierce, I understand your thoughts, but you need to look deeper into this character. Ethan Caelan is not weak. He faces his fate courageously, enduring all suffering for loyalty and love. That is inner strength, not weakness."

"But that’s not enough to convince me," Julian Pierce said resolutely. "I want a role that can showcase more martial arts, external strength, not just beauty and inner emotions."

Liam Brooks stepped closer, his voice becoming more persuasive.

"Do you know why I chose you for this role? Because I believe you have a unique ability to portray Ethan Caelan's complexity. This is not just a tragic story but a journey of courage and sacrifice. It requires nuance and depth in acting, which I believe only you can deliver."

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Julian Pierce listened, his eyes reflecting his thoughts. But after a moment, he shook his head.

"I appreciate your trust, but the image of a beautiful and tragic character is not what I want to pursue at this time. If you give me the role of the king, I will consider it."

Julian Pierce looked straight into Liam Brooks' eyes, his smile gentle but his gaze full of implication:

"Julian, only you can play Thanh Vũ. I believe that next time we meet, you will agree to take on this role."

Julian frowned slightly but maintained a polite smile.

"I'll consider it. Anyway, thank you for thinking of me."

"You'll see soon enough..." Liam hinted softly, as if talking to himself.

Julian shook hands with the screenwriter, still feeling a bit confused by the enigmatic words of this strange screenwriter. He said goodbye and left the room, stepping outside.

As Julian left Liam Brooks' house, he felt uneasy, his mind heavy with vague thoughts about the screenwriter's suggestive words. When he stepped outside, he saw his assistant, Lucas Grant, waiting by the car.

"Mr. Pierce, are you done?" Lucas opened the car door, flashing a bright smile.

"Yeah, all done," Julian nodded, getting into the back seat. "Thanks for waiting."

Lucas closed the car door, quickly got into the driver's seat, and started the car.

"How was the meeting? Was it enjoyable?"

Julian sighed, leaning his head back against the seat, looking out the window.

"It was interesting. He wants me to play a handsome historical figure."

"A handsome historical figure?" Lucas glanced at Julian through the rearview mirror, speaking while driving. "Sounds... fitting for you."

Julian raised an eyebrow. "Fitting for me?"

Lucas chuckled. "But you prefer gritty, strong roles, don't you?"

"That's right. I want to show strength, not play a role filled with tears and tragedy," Julian said, his voice a bit annoyed.

"But he kept insisting that I'm the most suitable for the role of Thanh Vũ."

"So you turned it down?" Lucas asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

"Yeah, I turned it down. But he kept saying that next time we meet, I'll agree," Julian shook his head. "What a strange screenwriter."

"Maybe he has another secret plan?" Lucas said, his eyes lighting up as if he'd just thought of something.

Julian laughed, feeling his mood lighten up as he listened to Lucas.

"What secret plan? He's not James Bond."

"Who knows, maybe he has some special trick up his sleeve," Lucas shrugged, his eyes sparkling.

"I've heard that screenwriters can be very creative in persuading actors."

"Yeah, maybe. But anyway, I still don't like that role," Julian said firmly.

The car glided down the road, and Julian felt his mind gradually ease as he watched the scenery outside and listened to Lucas' cheerful chatter.