Nikolai “Abner” Moss (37), serves as Variant Labs’ lead in botany, even if just about everyone at the lab would tell you he seems like the least conventional choice imaginable. His appointment was almost accidental in spirit, a decision that sounds questionable on paper until he starts talking and everyone in the lab realizes he actually knows exactly what he’s doing. 

 

Heavy marijuana use and all, Nikolai is deeply educated in botanical science and plant history, with a background of specific fields within eco science, that makes him invaluable in a place like Variant Labs. His studies stretch across traditional botanical disciplines as well as the strange and evolving plant life that began appearing more aggressively after North Zion was sealed away, giving him a rare insight in understanding flora that most researchers would not even know how to classify. Adrian saw the usefulness immediately. Butch, on the other hand, has never stopped mocking the choice, and takes regular shots at Adrian for putting the lab’s botanical future in the hands of a man who always looks at least half a conversation away from eating every single cookie in the break room.

 

Despite the jokes, Nikolai has proven himself more than capable. His studies intertwine with plant observation and the cultivation and study of rare species. 

 

Underneath all that laid-back energy, is someone genuinely intelligent and unexpectedly useful when the subject turns to his field. Nikolai also frequents introducing everyone to his niece, Theo, who reluctantly became a valuable asset to the lab after Nikolai was brought on board. Theo just happened to tag alongside him during his interview. 

 

That said, Nikolai is not exactly easy company for everyone, and one of his most frequent points of drama is Willow Phonk. The two butt heads often, especially where drugs and personal history are concerned. Willow’s past leaves her with very different instincts about substance use and the kinds of damage that can hide behind it, while Nikolai’s openness about marijuana and his overall disregard for judgment can make him seem flippant in ways she does not appreciate. 

 

Even so, that tension has become part of the lab’s rhythm. Nikolai remains one of Variant Labs’ stranger hires, but also one of its most useful, a man who may look like an unlikely expert until the moment you need one, or need a hookup with a cookup to relieve stress.