• Species: Exohuman
• Born: 2580 aboard the spaceship Last Frontier
• Affiliation: Danah-Wanah University, Faculty of Physics
• Place of Residence: New Kourou

Malek Vaross was born aboard the Last Frontier during the Alpha Age, into a family of engineers who played a pivotal role in the ship's operational maintenance. His early exposure to the advanced technology of the ship sparked his lifelong fascination with physics and materials science.

In 2599, Malek began studying Physics at the Last Frontier University, where he graduated in 2607 with the highest honors ever recorded. His brilliance earned him recognition as the most outstanding student in the history of the Last Frontier. Shortly thereafter, he completed his PhD, specializing in material science, and was recruited by the Starship Council to work as a lead scientist on top-secret projects. His research, much of it classified, was believed to focus on innovative applications of materials for adaptive and sustainable use in extreme environments.

In 2609, Malek married Angelina Vaross, a talented engineer whose skills complemented his own. Together, they had a daughter, Theresa Vaross, born in 2611. Malek’s family was a source of great pride and joy, providing him with a sense of balance amidst the high demands of his scientific work.

The crash landing of the Last Frontier in 2625 was a tragedy that forever altered Malek’s life. His wife, Angelina, was among the many casualties of the catastrophic event. Left to raise Theresa alone, Malek threw himself into his work, finding solace in his research and a sense of duty in ensuring the survival of Exohuman society on VOI 700 D.

By the time the crash occurred, Malek was already a well-established physicist at 45 years old. After the crash, he adapted his research to address the unique challenges of planetary survival. In 2632, Malek was appointed Professor of Physics at the Danah-Wanah University. Since then, he has led research initiatives exploring sustainable technologies and materials critical for the survival of Exohumans on VOI 700 D. His work is closely monitored by the Federal Confederation, as it holds strategic importance for maintaining the planet's fragile equilibrium.

Malek Vaross first encountered Jane Mendoza in 2619 when she enrolled as a freshman at the Last Frontier University. Recognizing her exceptional potential and feeling empathy for her tragic family background, Malek took her under his wing, providing her with private lessons to nurture her talent. With his guidance, Jane excelled academically and graduated as a top engineering student in 2624.

Following the crash landing of the Last Frontier and the tragic loss of Malek’s wife, Jane became a close associate of the Vaross family. She joined Malek and his daughter Theresa in their new home in New Kourou, assisting the professor on one of his early projects aimed at adapting advanced technologies to the challenges of VOI 700 D. Jane’s time with Malek was instrumental in shaping her future career in the Free State of Settlers.

However, they lost contact after Jane Mendoza radicalized and founded the Jane Mendoza Gang. Malek once remarked in an interview with the Weekly Gazette: “It feels like I lost a daughter to evil.”

• Job Title: Dean of the Physics-Faculty, Danah-Wanah University (since 2632)

Responsibilities:

• Leads research on Smart Matter and its applications in energy and infrastructure.
• Oversees graduate programs focused on advanced materials science.
• Advises the Federal Confederation on scientific projects critical to planetary survival.

• Traits: Analytical, reserved, indulgent
• Behavior: Malek Vaross is a complex individual. While his intellect and dedication to scientific progress are undeniable, his personal habits sometimes overshadow his reputation. Known for his sharp mind and relentless pursuit of knowledge, he is also infamous for his sweet tooth, which has gotten him into trouble on more than one occasion. His tendency to procure chocolate bars on the black market led to a minor scandal, though the lawsuit against him was quietly dismissed due to his indispensable role for the Federal Confederation. Despite this, Malek is deeply committed to his work and believes in the ethical application of technology to benefit Exohuman society.
• Values: Malek values innovation and survival above all else, often wrestling with the ethical dilemmas presented by the Federal Confederation's control over his research.

• Height: 1.75 meters
• Weight: 85 kg
• Appearance: Malek has a stocky build and carries a slight air of dishevelment. His graying hair, once neatly combed, often reflects the long hours he spends in his lab. His indulgence in sweets is apparent in his frame, yet his piercing blue eyes and commanding presence remind others of his intellectual gravitas.

• Armor Class (AC): 10 (no armor, standard clothing)
• Hit Points (HP): 25

Actions:

• Plead for Reason: Malek can attempt to de-escalate a conflict using his intellect and charisma. | Grants disadvantage on one enemy attack roll if successful (DC 13 Charisma check).
• Environmental Improvisation: Malek may use nearby objects (e.g., furniture or lab equipment) to create minor distractions or obstructions. | Requires a DC 10 Dexterity check to avoid effects.

Special Abilities:

• Federal Escort: Malek is always accompanied by Xiao Mehta, a Deputy of the Federal Sheriff, who is armed and trained for combat. The Deputy acts as Malek’s protector, intervening in physical threats.
• Brilliant Mind: Malek gains advantage on Intelligence-based checks, particularly those involving physics or material science, to navigate complex situations or environments.

Malek Vaross is a versatile NPC for scenarios involving science, moral ambiguity, and high-stakes missions.

Potential Scenarios:

• Research Secrets: Players may attempt to steal or protect Malek’s Smart Matter data, leading to tense infiltration or escape sequences.
• Moral Dilemma: Malek could offer the players valuable knowledge in exchange for his freedom, forcing them to weigh their loyalty to the Jane Mendoza Gang against the broader implications of his work.
• Hostage Negotiations: Malek’s importance to the Federal Confederation could make him the focal point of a high-stakes negotiation or rescue operation.
• Scientific Revelation: Malek might reveal critical information about Smart Matter that could alter the players’ understanding of the storyworld, creating opportunities for future quests.
• Defensive Strategy: If attacked, Malek’s intelligence allows him to use the environment creatively, turning seemingly ordinary objects into tools for survival or sabotage.

• ExoHuman personalities of the Gamma Age
• Danah Wanah-University
• Last Frontier University
• Theresa Vaross
• Jane Mendoza
• New Kourou

Known members of the Danah-Wanah-University:

• Professor Malek Vaross (Dean of the Faculty of Physics and Geology)
• Theresa Vaross (PHD in Medicine)