Ep.21: Wow, could XJS get any worse? Refusing to drink got a maid killed and he knows it and has no reaction. Xiyang is constantly standing up for him. I think she's going to regret this later when she figures out his true nature.
If the drama is trying to garner sympathy for Xia Jing Shi then it's not working for me. He is neither brave enough to dictate his own destiny nor does he have the courage to be responsible for his actions. Even his kindnesses to various people is merely performative and to collect the interest in the future.
This is a minor but consistent point in FSG's characterization: he dresses and acts like a prince. Whether it's his clothing, golden blade, or the way he expects his orders to be carried out without question, it's all in line with how a member of royalty would act. I've watched too many MLs who behave like they're commoners. It's refreshing to see a more realistic take on what a prince would be like, warts and all.