The Movie Emperor Teaches Me to Act So I Can Stay Alive

Cheng Zhuo is a minor celebrity and a walking jinx. He's had bad luck his whole life: his school keeps falling apart, his workplaces go under, and even when he's walking down the street, a billboard can come crashing down right in front of him.

But perhaps his luck has finally turned. Cheng Zhuo has somehow acquired a lazy good-luck System. As long as he lies flat, good fortune is sure to follow.

So when the other guests on a variety show hold forth, he lies flat and drinks milk.

When they show off their talents, he lies flat and drinks milk.

When they sweat over cooking, he lies flat and drinks milk.

The milk brand's sponsor is so moved: "This handsome young man has to be a regular!"

One day, the show has everyone act out a scene. If nothing unexpected happens, Cheng Zhuo will lie flat and drink milk as usual.

But then something unexpected happens: a System appears in his mind, and its little avatar takes the form of his idol, Best Actor Xiao Mushí. The avatar solemnly offers to teach him how to act.

Cheng Zhuo looks at the golden finger he's had all along, then at this "Best Actor" who came from out of nowhere. His resolve is firm: "You can dress up like my idol all you want. You're not going to tempt me!"

"Idol" Xiao Mushí: "... At least you have good taste."

Some time ago, Xiao Mushí was struck by a sudden accident. At the critical moment, he became bound to an "Acting Instruction System." If he can teach a designated person to act, he can extend his life. If that person wins the Best Actor award, he'll gain thirty years of life. And if they win two trophies, he can live out the rest of his natural lifespan without a problem.

At first, Xiao Mushí thought this would be an easy win.

Until he started teaching Cheng Zhuo to act.

"You're playing a lowlife. Hunch your back a little and let your eyes dart around, like you're always looking for something to take advantage of."

-Cheng Zhuo's gaze immediately darted over to some sour milk and fixed on it.

Xiao Mushí: "Finish your drink, then try again!"

"This time, you're a bright-eyed college student. Just play yourself."

-Cheng Zhuo immediately relaxed into the sofa. Too bad he didn't have his phone in his pocket. No problem, he could act without props.

Xiao Mushí: "Stop making a spectacle of yourself and get up!"

"A beginner teacher. Easy. Use small gestures to show your nervousness, like adjusting your glasses before going up to the lectern."

-Cheng Zhuo really was nervous. He fumbled with his glasses and tripped as soon as he stepped up to the lectern.

Xiao Mushí: "..."

System: Congratulations, Host. You've gained three more hours of life!

-

After the show, Cheng Zhuo's manager ushered him onto a film set, wearing a strange look and fawning over him.

A set with a Best Actor!

His idol is even more handsome in person!

The way he clutches his chest looks exactly like Cheng Zhuo's golden finger!

And he clutches it whenever Cheng Zhuo messes up a take. They even do it in sync!

Looking at his pale-faced golden finger, Cheng Zhuo feels a little shy. "You don't have to keep copying people. How about changing your appearance? You could look like the top-tier star on the neighboring set. He's got abs, and I like looking at them."

Xiao Mushí's gaze turns icy. "Can't change it. Not enough points."

After learning he can earn points by acting well, Cheng Zhuo pushes through his bad luck and works hard for several days.

At last, he's saved enough points, but his golden finger's gaze could kill. "Can't change it. The cooldown period hasn't ended."

The next day, the film crew suddenly adds an action scene. The usually restrained and meticulous Best Actor, who never even shows his collarbones, performs in a white shirt. The crew sprays him with water until it's soaked, and his V-line appears and disappears with his explosive movements.

Cheng Zhuo doesn't mention changing his appearance again. "How many points does it take to change your skin? I mean, to look like that, all wet. :)"

Seeing Cheng Zhuo's bright, clear eyes, Xiao Mushí can't hold back. He moves close in person, leans to his ear, and grits out, "One take, and when we get back to the hotel, I'll take it off and let you see!"

[A beautiful, lazy top who has the hots for him but no guts to act on it x a bottom who sells both his skills and his body, and gradually gets hooked]

-First edition: 2025.04.07. Screenshot saved.-

Message: Balance work and rest, and keep moving toward your dreams