Unbetitelt

my head canon: Julian spent more than half of his life hiding his genetic enhancement to the point it became natural. He constantly did things to offset his incredible skill, knowing full well that people would be more forgiving someone who was skilled but also a little annoying, yet clearly without malice. I think when he met Jedzia on the Runabout to DS9, he just tried to flirt with her because that was something expected of "normal" young men in his position. He likely expected to be turned down while still being considered slightly more flattering than annoying for his interest. Yet getting to know Jedzia, someone physically his age and yet given an enhancement almost better than what his Parents forced on him, and yet she does not have to hide but is celebrated for it. That is what made him stay interested. Her mixing of (stereotypical) feminine with masculine interests, youthful curiosity with sage wisdom, and kind yet determined qualities. Those are the things that made Julian fall in love with Dax.

Executive dysfunction so bad I feel like I'm holding myself hostage at gunpoint and issuing incomprehensible demands to the negotiator, who is also me. Christ.