Season 3 had a lot of good moments. One of which is how past that one episode, O'Brien is essentially dead. At least the one we knew from the beginning of the show.

I also like in relation to events like that and how the characters try to work out how it's even possible for things like that to happen, they refuse to take it totally serious. There's a bit of nudge wink that, yeah, it's impossible but fuck it, sci-fi, what are ya gonna do...?

Kira getting likable was never an issue for me. I always understood that she is a woman who's spent half of her life fighting to liberate her people, killing and nearly getting killed in all manner of ways, and when they get free of the Cardassians and some Federation help, cats like Kai Win and anyone with an occupation grudge or power trip starts acting the fool and she's now responsible for it all.

I'd be a might bit testy in her position as well.

Upping the sexy didn't hurt though. Although Mirror Universe Kira was creepy. How self obsessed do you have to be to hit on you own twin from a parallel universe. To be honest I don't think one of the major reason they went this way with her was just to soften the character. She's a slightly better actor than Dax and pulles it off better.

Season 4 gets more DARKNESS as Worf joins the crew and this back and fourth about Root Beer is driven home on a number of occasions...

"It's vile."
"I know. It's so bubbly and cloying and happy."
"Just like the Federation."
"But you know what's really frightening? If you drink enough of it, you start to like it."
"It's insidious."
"Just like the Federation."

Finally Odo taking center stage a lot more is GREAT. His story line during the season really gave him a lot of depth. He was always a great character but as they flesh out the things that make him relate able not just to the viewers but to the other characters rally makes for some good stories and moments. The Dax episode where he was host to Kurzon was made really great by that twist and the performance of the actor. He REALLY sold the change in attitude and emotion he went through.

Tom Riker is a bitch ass bitch. How you gonna be throwing around all that charisma and be all hurt that you a'int got the good life like Will.

Gaul Dukat is characterized not as being evil but as a TREMENDOUSLY pompous yet capable blowhard. He's every bit the opportunist Quark is but he's so in love with the sound of his voice and reputation he can't fathom why any one else wouldn't be as well. Talk all you like Dukat. Kira a'int feeling you. Season 4 will have you feeling sorry for the guy at one point. Then you won't.