Judges

*"Ssstranger, you might not want to look at thisss now..."*

This article contains important spoilers that can ruin your experience while playing  FTL: Multiverse! Read at your own risk.

The Judges are a group of NPCs who always spawn at Node 17 (S8) and will have their beacon labelled (Judges) as soon as the player reaches the sector, much like Sylvan. Their gameplay purpose is giving the player special upgrades or advantages called Boons, the type given depending on what the player chooses to show to a particular Judge. Boons grant their effect on the next run.

## Introduction

When first encountered, the Judges will introduce themselves and explain their purpose to the player. This introduction will only ever happen once per savefile, and after the exchange is complete, the player will be gifted a high Weapon+Scrap reward. The introduction dialogue is the following:

	1. Uhm, hello.
		+ *"Allow us to get... introductions out of the way. I am Thest, Judge of Diplomacy. I seek... travelers who make it their passion to make peace with all species. Prove to me your... dedication to building bridges and I shall grant you... great boons."*
			- *The second judge, a Separatist, appears next. "[Hail], for I am: Corby - Judge of Technology. Judge of Technology! Mission of observation summary: analyze trends between travelers with [advanced] technology. Technology! Do you -possess- t-t-t-technology? Of the advanced form? Provide proof. Rewards await. Rewards await!"*
				* *The final judge, a Rockman with the marks of a former Lost Sun commando, speaks last. "I am WAKESON, Judge of WARFARE! A MILITARY VESSEL such as yours would not befit to be seen without an ARSENAL fit for a KING! Do not DISAPPOINT me, for great rewards await those WORTHY of my time!"*
					+ *The three, finished, each take a bow. "Good." "F-f-fantastic!" "Hmph." "We have reached a consensus. You are our... latest subject." "[You] bring us: tribute!" "We will OBSERVE! IMPRESS he who you THINK BEST suits your purposes." "Yes... the data will be... invaluable. We understand at this time you are... unprepared." "-Yes-. As consolation, we offer: gift. Monetary supplement. We share the [desire] to see you again. We will: see you again." "Now LEAVE. Your time will COME AGAIN."*

## Second Encounter onwards

When reencountered, the Judges will begin accepting tribute and gifting Boons to the player, which vary depending on the tribute shown. If the player is currently under the effect of another Boon, the Judges will have slightly different dialogue on meeting them, but this is only aesthetic and has no gameplay purpose.

2nd encounter onwards dialogue:

* *A strange vessel approaches, and on your screen appears three aliens dressed in long robes and their faces covered with ornate masks. "We tire of... introducing ourselves. Over and over... our process repeats." "Approaching: another [traveler]. An opportunity -this- is. An opportunity this is!" "Present us TRIBUTE! We will JUDGE your MERIT!"*

If carrying a Boon already:

* *A strange vessel approaches, and on your screen appears three aliens dressed in long robes and their faces covered with ornate masks. "I see you carry a... boon of ours. Good... then introductions will not be... necessary." "The process -repeats-. You will: select the n-n-next [tribute]. Good -luck-!" "We will JUDGE your MERIT! Do not FAIL us!"*

Regardless of the encounter dialogue, the player will then proceed to pick a Judge, or none at all

## Judge Selection

After meeting the Judges from the second time onwards, the player will be able to select which judge they wish to present a tribute to. If a Judge is picked in a run, they will not be eligible on the following run (the usual choice will be replaced by the grey text below for each).

1. **Present yourself to Thest, Judge of Diplomacy**
	* (Unavailable: "Perhaps you should... speak to one of the others today... yes?")
2. **Present yourself to Corby, Judge of Technology**
	* (Unavailable: "Corby is [busy]! Busy! Speak t-t-t-to: the others!")
3. **Present yourself to Wakeson, Judge of Warfare**
	* (Unavailable: "I have SEEN enough CHALLENGERS recently. The others WILL attend to you.")
4. **Present yourself to none of them**
	* *"Really? You have... sought us out... yet bring nothing? What are we to... observe?" "It is: okay! Okay! There w-w-will be other -opportunities-!" "SHAME! Leave us. Next time, bring TRIBUTE! Disappointment does not bring INFORMATION!"*

### **Thest's Tribute**

*Thest bows. "I see you seek my... boons. But first... your proof. Present to me the crewmember you are... most proud of recruiting."*

#### Exotic Crew

1. Present a Morph
	* *"The failed... experiments of the Geniocracy. The strange language these... creatures speak is most undecipherable. To welcome one aboard your ship is... impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
2. Present a Spider
	* *"An arachnid... dubiously named by humans. Barely sapient... maybe not even so. Under your care it seems... satisfied. To control even temporarily such a usually savage and disobedient creature is... impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
3. Present an Equinoid
	* *"A strange creature... of unknown origins, but they have spread like a... virus across the galaxy. When domesticated they can be... useful. I suppose I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
4. Present a Lizard
	* *"Servants to... Hektar Industries. Enslaved, belittled... they trust not technology. Corby would... disapprove, but I myself see it as an... accomplishment to convince one to work with you. It is... impressive, you could say. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
5. Present a Siren (commented out)
	* *YOU SHOULD NEVER SEE THIS*
6. Present an Osmian
	* *"..." Thest remains silent momentarily. "Yes... my... people... Hmmm... Is... impressed the word I would... use? Maybe. I suppose a reward is... in order... This is certainly... data. Wakeson would be... disappointed for me to turn down... tribute. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
7. Present a Rockman Cultist
	* *"A heretical splinter group... they seek the wisdom of some higher plane... yet the Ember does not reside with you. To have convinced this stubborn follower of a stringent faith is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
8. Present a Cognitive
	* *"The mechanic offspring of the... Obelisk. Abused by their masters, they resent... authority. You are either a cruel slaver master... or a forgiving and benevolent captain. But... what is the difference in the end? To recruit such an... exotic crew member is most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
9. Present an Augmented
	* *"The... Augmented. Lanius who have followed in the footsteps of their... Forefathers. No longer one with the Swarm, they are... exceedingly rare to come across. You have a... long reaching influence to have one of these aboard your crew. It is... impressive. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
10. Present an Obelisk
	* *"The Obelisk... my word... how unexpected. The founders of this galaxy, the closest thing to gods we have... ever had. Well... besides... him... Nevermatter. To carry aboard your vessel an... Obelisk is most impressive. I am... very impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*

#### Elite Crew

1. Present a Human Soldier
	* *"A well trained... human. While their species is often seen as... common and uninteresting... recruiting one of such expertise is... impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
2. Present a Human Technitian
	* *"The faithful... to their paycheck, at least... employees of Wentworth Innovations. Their original employer is certainly no... friend of yours, but to carry them aboard your ship is... impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
3. Present an Engi Defender
	* *"The chosen protectors of the... Harmony. Yes... the Harmony does not often allow its soldiers aboard... strange vessels such as yours. The lengths you must have gone to recruit this Engi are... impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
4. Present a Zoltan Peacekeeper
	* *"Guardians of the... Ministry. There is some... irony to their ruthlessness... but the Ministry has always been a well of paradox. It is hard to... impress a Peacekeeper. Just, as it is hard... to impress me. Yet, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
5. Present a Duskbringer Martyr
	* *"The ruthless, devoted, and far from benevolent Martyrs... you, a Federation ally, harbor their most devoted. A Martyr, one who would... die for the cause... has betrayed it to aid you. This is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
6. Present an Orchid Chieftain
	* *"The solitary but noble Chieftains, humble protectors of the... Gardenworlds. This one appears to have... abandoned its post to aid you. That is... most impressive. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
7. Present a Mantis Suzerain
	* *"A warrior of such fine caliber... a sworn enemy of the Federation. Yet, it has left the Hive, and is now in your... service? This is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
8. Present a Free Mantis Warlord
	* *"The Free Mantis are an... enigmatic problem. Unpredictable, unintelligent... unwashed and unaware. To possess such control over such an... unregulated beast... a mindless murderer... is... impressive? I think it is... I will accept this tribute, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
9. Present a Slug Saboteur
	* *"The elusive Saboteurs - Clairvoyants, hackers, Coalition spies... none are your allies... except this one. Either it seeks... to rob your wallet, or it has found a friend in you. I will be generous and assume... the latter. This is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
10. Present a Clansman Ranger
	* *"The finest sharpshooters in the... multiverse. Hunters, most devoted to their craft. For one to leave the vantage of their Guild, it suggests... it has found better use in you. A most utilitarian of professions, surely this implies impressive things of your... prowess. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
11. Present a Crusader
	* *"A religious juggernaut... in all senses of the word. Their beliefs are as unmoving as... they are. Yet, you have... moved them. An impressive... feat. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
12. Present a Sentinel.
	* *"A Sentinel... the proud defenders of the... Crystalline Empire's new homeworlds. They are not always the most... recipient to outsiders, but you seem to have convinced this one to... aid you. This is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
13. Present a Radiant
	* *"The toxic Radiant... a marvel of Dr. Alkali's finest genetic engineering. Though created for unwavering... service, it seems this one has found you a better... employer. This is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
14. Present an Ampere
	* *"How... electrifying. The parasitic Amperes, the Coalition's finest... born from the ruined waysides of the Eargen Republic and smithed into... a noble warrior. An expert on the best and the worst... for an Ampere to call you master you must be a most... impressive captain. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
15. Present an Alpha Ghost
	* *"Gaseous beings of undecipherable biology... and also undecipherable motives. Dynasty or Vagabond, Phantoms are not easily swayed to the side of... well... the likes of you. And for Alphas, this statement is imbued with an even... greater truth. To recruit one is... most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
16. Present a Welder
	* *"Perhaps some of the... oldest beings alive. Near immortal, and empowered by it, the Welders have seen all. Burdened with the witnessing of... millenia old evils, there must be a great... potential in you for one to fly in your ranks is... Most impressive. Yes, I am... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*

#### Super Elite Crew

1. Present an MFK
	* *"The Rebellion's finest... the wits of a Slug, quicker than a Mantis, and a relentless and unbreakable jingoist that even a Duskbringer would view extreme... How ever could you have... recruited it? No... this is not my place to ask questions. Your tribute is... very impressive. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
2. Present an Angel
	* *"I find it... ironic... the petty feuds between the Renegades and the Syndicate. With the same vigor, the same pride of their leader Vael... hmmm... the Angels would not follow your command unless you were truly worthy... a worthiness which leaves me most... impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
3. Present a Mantis Bishop
	* *"For how many have fallen at the hands of this Bishop... easily you could have been another. And yet, here you stand, and this Bishop... they follow your command. I marvel at the lengths you must have gone to... achieve this. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
4. Present a Knight of Nights
	* *"The most cunning of all the Slugs... the Knights of Nights represent the finest... the poster children of every virtue - and vice - the Slugs hold dear. Such crew could be considered an... indictment... but I am nothing but impressed. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
5. Present a Rock Paladin
	* *"It is not difficult to confuse the... Chrysolic clergymen as... brutish soldiers. But the Paladins are... far from unintelligent. What they are, however... is undyingly loyal. To sway one to your side says nothing short of the mastery in diplomatic skill you possess. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*

#### Unique Crew

1. Present a Unique Crew
	* *"A... prestigous face, one surely recognized... to recruit such a notable figure, one of such... distinction, is a most impressive act. Yes, this tribute is... very impressive. Well done, traveler. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
2. Present a mechanical Unique Crew (only A55H0L3, **not** Gana)
	* *"I... this is... How unexpected. I was not sure... this cluster... nevermind. Do me a favor, would you, and avoid... showing this to Corby? I cannot explain for the... creed forbids me, but it is... for the best. Yes... a good tribute is in store for this. Expect... rewards before your next journey."*
3. Present the Orchid Children
	* *"I... wh..." Thest stops entirely as he processes the pile of corpses on the ground before him. "Uhm... this is... tribute? You are... sure? Okay... I hesitate to say... well done. But... I suppose you can... expect some reward for your next journey... Now... please leave."*
4. We have nothing to show.
	* *"Really? You have brought... nothing? Pity. I had such... high hopes. This will not... do. Next time I advise... bringing something worth showing, yes?"*

#### Thest's Advice

One of the following lines will be picked at random after receiving any tribute:

* *"Oh and... might I ask a... favor of you, traveler? That... Traveling Merchant. The one who calls himself... Sylvan. Would you perhaps... keep a careful eye on him? I know he is... a bountiful ally of yours but... well... I am not at the liberty to say. Oh well. Heed my advice, if you... wish. That is all."*
* *"I've taken a recent interest in a certain... conflict in my homeworlds. Well... the version of them in this cluster, that is... I advise you, if you happen to travel there... well... see to it your tracking systems are... up to par? Understand? If not, perhaps you will... some day."*
* *"Your cluster is... so strange... It is against the creed to... speak of our home... but... no. I must never break the... creed. Maybe... maybe Corby will tell you... she cares less for... rules... Maybe too little..."*
* *"I must... warn you, traveler. I fear something dangerous brews... and you must stop it before it is... too late. Am I being... too cryptic? Perhaps. But the creed... the creed says I must. We already do too much, by intervening. These... boons. Are they even allowed? We were sent to collect data... our justification was for an incentive... I must not question myself. I do what I must... We all do."*
* *"To be bound to the flesh is... most unappealing. Perhaps you don't... agree? I don't wish to belabor my point... but ever since I first shed my skin... and felt the warmth of the light... well, it drew me in. I do not often speak of my... past... but in the wake of the Monolith only then did I find my... true power. Just as... master Solay predicted. But... I left that life behind. And to it, I will never return..."*
* *"Be cautious... this multiverse contains many vices for the... hungry. Magnets of sin... the tempation is often far too... great. I fell for those mistakes... once. Do not follow in my... footsteps, traveler."*
* *"I hope our... appearances do not put you on... edge... We are... peaceful. Or at least, I can ensure you that I am... and Corby too. As for Wakeson... well... he has endured pain as bitter as the rest of us... but unlike Corby, whose unrelenting optimism acts as a... torch through her dark past... it is Wakeson's... fighting spirit that is his torch. And as a once Lost Sun, in his hands a torch is... quite the weapon..."*
* *"I often lose... track... of how many travelers I have met. So many... so many... what number are you? It is... strange... you all seem so similar. You become... a blur. I could almost mistake you as all the same... individual. Perhaps it is because home has... so few sur- No. I do not speak of... home. I apologize."*

### **Corby's Tribute**

*Corby jolts upright. "Corby has been: called upon - called upon! The [opportunity]... maximum percentage. Excitement can hardly be contained. Contained! But first - data must be presented. Exchange: data for grants."*

1. Present your Weapons system (REQ: LV8)
	* *"Weapons - combat purposes they s-s-s-serve. Combat purposes! You are a vessel of: war. Wakeson would be [proud]. For war vessel: I provide Grant of W-w-weaponry. Grant of Weaponry: save it - for the future!!"*
2. Present your Shields system (REQ: LV8)
	* *"Shields - defensive p-p-p-procedures they ensure! You pilot a: well protected vessel! Well protected vessel! For well protected vessel: I provide Grant of Sh-sh-shielding! Grant of Shielding! Save it - for the future!"*
3. Present your Engines system (REQ: LV8)
	* *"Engines - for s-s-swift speeds! Swift speeds! Your vessel is: [very fast]! Fast fast fast! For speedy vessel: I provide Grant of E-E-E-Engines! Grant of Engines! Save it - for the future!"*
4. Present your Medbay system (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Medbay - what great [care] you provide for your crew. For your crew! You are a b-b-b-benevolent captain! For your kindness: I provide G-g-g-g-grant of Healing! Grant of Healing! Save it - for the future!"*
5. Present your Clonebay system (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Clonebay - a last [resort] - for when things go: wrong! Wrong! The [immortality] machine! Such [care] for your crew is: impressive. For your care, your preparation: I provide Grant of -Cloning-. Grant of Cloning! Save it - for the future!"*
6. Present your Oxygen system (REQ: LV4)
	* *"Life Support - necessity of -all- aerobic life forms. The cold [vacuum] of space = certain death. Certain death! You are: harbinger of oxygen! Of b-b-b-breathable air! Breathable air! To you I provide: Grant of Life Support! Grant of Life Support! Save it - for the future!"*
7. Present your Teleporter system (REQ: LV4)
	* *"The Teleporter - strange t-t-t-technology, essential for boarding. Boarding! I confirm: this is Wakeson's second f-f-f-favorite system - the [first] is weapons. Or - or - or - was it drones? Corby forgets! Forgets! [Nevermatter]. To you I provide: Grant of Teleportation! Grant of Teleportation! Save it - for the future!"*
8. Present your Mind Control system (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Mind... C-c-c-control. Corby... Corby dislikes this: system. Sad. Sad levels at: 100%. But: data this provides. I suggest: not -reminding- me of this. Now, I will -provide- you with: Grant of M-m-m-m-manipulation. Grant of Manipulation! Save it - for the future! Or don't! Corby wouldn't m-m-mind..."*
9. Present your Hacking system (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Hacking! Corby's favorite -system-. Favorite system! Joyous [occasion]. It is: technology - but it: disrupts technology. Technology!!! For this, I most [proudly] provide: Grant of Hacking! Grant of Hacking! Cherish it! Save it - for the future!"*
10. Present your Cloaking system (REQ: LV5)
	* *"Cloaking! For the [stealthiest] of ships. Charge your guns - hide from bullets! Some would call you: a coward, but Corby d-d-d-does not think so! Corby thinks you are smart! For this, I most [proudly] provide: Grant of Cloaking! Grant of Cloaking! Cherish it! Save it - for the future!"*
11. Present your Temporal system (REQ: LV3)
	* *"[ERROR]... How d-d-d-did you -obtain- this system? I thought... it couldn't be... oh dear! Corby does not know [what] to think! We were told if... nevermind. Corby would never b-b-b-break the creed! But... well... speak nothing of this traveler. I will give you the Grant of Time! Grant of Time! Save it - for the future, and keep this a secret between us!"*
12. Present your Drone Control system (REQ: LV8)
	* *"Drones! -Drones-! Drones! Corby approves! Approves! A m-m-m-most ambidexterous system, for it serves: offense - defense - it can even [fill] in for crew. G-g-g-good system. I [recommend]. For this I provide you: Grant of Drones! Save it - for the future!"*
13. Present your Sensors subsystem (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Sensors - essential f-f-for full [awareness] of your ship... and the enemy's. Corby -sees- few captains who: invest in sensors. Daring choice! I appreciate your diversity. For this, I provide: Grant of Sensors. Grant -of- Sensors! Save it - for the future!"*
14. Present your Doors subsystem (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Door control - she who controls the doors - controls space! Space! That is: what they told me, that is... Airlocks: the key to [boarding] c-c-c-control. This - I know. For you, I provide: Grant of Doors. G-g-g-grant of Doors! Save it - for the future!"*
15. Present your Piloting subsystem (REQ: LV3)
	* *"Piloting - an essential: no ship is [complete] without it! But your -piloting- is: strong! Strong! I think this = good. Corby... Corby does -not- like [wasting] money - but she is sure y-y-y-you know what you are doing! I provide you with: Grant of Piloting. Grant of [Piloting]! Save it - for the future!"*
16. Present your Battery subsystem (REQ: LV2)
	* *"Battery - I often forget this: exists. But -you- didn't! Corby likes it when [daring] captains invest in edge technology. Edge technology! I w-w-will accept: this tribute! I will provide you: Grant of Battery. Grant of B-b-b-battery! Save it - for the future!"*
17. Present your reactor (REQ: LV25)
	* *"Oh-oh-oh my - your Reactor is [huge]! Huge! So many: upgrades, so much: power! Corby can barely c-c-c-contain her excitement... er... -apologies-. Yes, this is great [tribute]. For this, I provide you with: Grant of Power. Grant of Power! Save it - for the future!"*
18. *We have nothing to show.*
	* *"Nothing? Nothing?! That is [okay]! Corby understands. You will r-r-r-return, and bring me [better] tribute next time! I am: sure! Goodbye! Goodbye!"*

#### Corby's Advice

One of the following lines will be picked at random after receiving any tribute:

* *"Thest thinks I am: not l-l-loyal to the [creed]. Lies! Lies! Corby would never -break- the creed! The creed! Our cluster = boring! I would not [talk] about it! N-n-n-never! Do -not- ask! I will not: tell! Not tell!"*
* *"The Harmony is cruel. Cruel! Corby was manufactured with: filthy serial code - for a name. Numbers, hardly a [name]! I made a new: life for m-m-myself! Yes! Corby is [beautiful] girl, very -happy-, and she loves: everyone! She loves: you too, traveler! And she is NEVER GOING BACK TO THAT [DREADED] PLACE. NEVER! Oh... sorry for the [outburst]."*
* *"At home, they [say] Corby is... broken! How can Corby be -broken-? I am functioning: fine. Fine! My vocals: are disturbed. But not my m-m-m-mind. Those that [slave] to the Harmony - they are broken. I am among them: no longer! I think they do not understand what - broken means. What broken means!"*
* *"Have y-y-you seen it yet? The: [dreaded] P-word? I-wait. No! No! Corby is not supposed to [mention] that... the creed says so! Hm. I do not: like the creed - I do -not- see the: purpose. Rules. Rules... Rules! I hate them. -Anarchy-! Hahah! That is what Corby: thinks. But: Thest disagrees. Thest knows best! Corby trusts Thest. Yes. Corby trusts Thest!"*
* *"Why does Corby like [technology]? I wonder this, sometimes. Is it: in my DNA? No, it cannot be. Corby d-d-d-does not have DNA! Boring boring nanites. Why -could- she not have been a Shell? No... Corby likes [technology] because... it is all she knows. Technology is my tormentor. Technology is my [savior]."*
* *"Your people are: strange. Why is it, you [view] Cognitives as objects? Objects!? The entity called C.I.C.A., the Rebel AI... why is that -different- from: me? Why do you not c-c-call the Engi: Cognitives? The Harmony is a: Cognitive. Each Engi contains a fragment of the - Harmony. I detect a - paradox. Paradox! I suggest: reconciling your language."*
* *"The other d-d-day, I saw a strange: spectacle. Spectacle! A ch-ch-traveler [fought] the one who calls himself: Sylvan! They lost, of course. Of course! That Sylvan - he is so strange. Thest - does not like him. Wakeson - is skeptical as always. But me? I do not [know]. I think I: like him. He is kind. Kind! I hope [you] are k-k-kind to him as well, traveler!"*
* *"I [hope] you do not find Wakeson: mean. Mean! He -does- not mean to be! The three of us, we have all b-b-been through: great tragedy. We have taken it [differently]. He is... he is skeptical. Skeptical -things- can improve. You must [prove] to him they can! Corby knows they can. But she alone cannot help him. Help him!"*

### **Wakeson's Tribute**

*Wakeson grunts and shrugs back his giant shoulders. "You seek my BLESSINGS? Then you must PROVE yourself first! Show me your ARSENAL, and I will show you WHAT I THINK! Do not FAIL me. I have little PATIENCE for you."*

1. Present a basic weapon (includes any of the starter weapons that can be obtained at the Equipment Grab, namely the Defense Laser, Simple Ion, and 'Leto' Missiles)
	* *This... this is USELESS. Did you carry THIS all the way from the DROPPOINT?! HAHAHAHAH! I'm not sure whether to consider this PATHETIC or ENDEARING! But, I will ACCEPT this. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF BEGINNINGS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
2. Present an Elite Kernel weapon
	* *"Hmph. A KERNEL? An ELITE KERNEL? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. Wielded by the ORCHIDS, FORGED from both metal and organic matter. FINE. I will ACCEPT this. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF KERNELS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
3. Present an Elite Crystal weapon
	* *"Hmph. A CRYSTAL LAUNCHER? An ELITE ONE? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. Deadly WEAPONS crafted by the proud Crystal people, with PIERCING properties that make SHIELDS a thing of the PAST. I DESPISE them. Obnoxious, and with a lack of SOPHISTICATION! Would I be HAILED a genius should I have invented a CANNON which launches FLESH? I think not! Oh well. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF CRYSTALS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
4. Present a Mine Launcher (includes all regular Mine Launchers, Onslaught, Lost Sun 'Sekhmet' loot, 'Percentage' math loot and 'Pharaoh' Mine Launcher)
	* *"Hmph. A MINE LAUNCHER? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. LESS a weapon, and MORE a utility. In my cluster, they were HATED. But here, things seem DIFFERENT. I do not THINK your ship is CLEARED to carry this equipment, but I DOUBT you care. Oh well. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF TRAPS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
5. Present New Gen tech
	* *"Oh my... NEW GEN Tech? Now THIS is TRIBUTE! Assembled in the finest WORKSHOPS in all of Universe 1, armaments fit only for the Rebellion's FINEST, and seemingly also YOURSELF! I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF GENERATIONS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
6. Present Aether tech (includes both Obelisk Weapons and Obelisk Drones)
	* *"Oh my... AETHER Tech? Now THIS is TRIBUTE! Forged only from the purest of AETHER by the FOREFATHERS. DAMNED might those wretches be, but their CRAFTSMANSHIP cannot be denied! I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF AETHER. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
7. Present Nexus Loot (includes 'Beyatch' Beam, Laser Beam, could not find mu\_TITLE\_DEFUNCT\_LASER, Uplifted BLII, Uplifted III and God Killer)
	* *"Oh my... did you get this from the TRAVELING MERCHANT? A strange individual, with indiscernable MOTIVES, but few entities possess GREATER arsenals! And now, you stand to CONTEST his championship! I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF MERCHANTS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
8. Present Special Loot (includes most Event Weapons: Chain Phaser, 'Matchbox', 'Apostle', 'Dianesh' Missiles, Cyclopean Beam, Cherri Bomb, Salt Launcher, Burst Laser 4, 'Rift Waker' 0.5 and the 🗲 variant, Wonderdrone tm, Uplifted Drone)
	* *"Hmph. SPECIAL loot? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. What STRANGE tech, but I have seen BETTER. Your tribute is UNINSPIRING. Still, Thest demands I give SOME reward. So be it. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF SPECIALITY. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
9. Present Transport Loot
	* *"Hmph. TRANSPORT loot? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. I SUSPECT you did not obtain this through MORAL means, did you? You Renegades are like PIRATES, murderers, VANDALS. Hmph. Years fighting as a SOLDIER OF LIBERTY and here I am dishing gifts out to SCUM. Still, Thest demands I give SOME reward. So be it. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF TRANSPORTS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
10. Present Math Loot
	* *"What is THIS? It looks like a RAINBOW threw this up. Is... this a WEAPON? This is perhaps the STRANGEST tribute any challenger has given me thus far. Except maybe that CANNON. Whatever. I'll give you CREDIT for being... UNIQUE at least. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF MATHEMATICS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
11. Present Renegade Loot
	* *"Oh my... the loot of ANOTHER Renegade? Hah, I find NOTHING more humorous than when you SAVAGES infight! This is a MOST UNIQUE piece of tech. I am sure Corby would wish to study it. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF RENEGADES. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
12. Present C.U.R.A Loot (includes Harpoon Launcher, Power Core, OmniDrone and both toggles of Projector Scanner)
	* *"Eh... You got THIS from that infernal COGNITIVE, didn't you? What disgrace, working with a VILLAINOUS machine. Do not be surprised if it STABS you in the BACK some time. But it is NOT my job to warn you. I will... enjoy MESSING with that AI. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF TASKS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
13. Present the Clone Cannon
	* *"Uhm... what is THIS? Did someone ATTACH a CLONE BAY to the back of this gun? HAHAHAHAH, HAHAHAH! This is WONDEROUS! So INVENTIVE! So ORIGINAL! I LOVE this. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF MORALITY. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
14. Present a Modular Weapon (includes every weapon and combination, but not individual modules)
	* *"Hmph. This is MODULAR weaponry? Sure. This is tribute, I suppose. Assembled by HEKTAR, that most GREEDY of companies. I hope it was WORTH whatever you PAID for it, traveler. Or... knowing your type, you likely didn't PAY FOR IT at all, did you? Oh well. I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF MODULARITY. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
15. Present the Gatling Gun
	* *"Oh my... is this the SUPER WEAPON employed by the Union during the Federation-Mantis War? How ever did you get your HANDS on THIS? Now, THIS IS TRIBUTE! You impress me GREATLY! I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF SUPER WEAPONS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
16. Present the Rift Waker
	* *"Oh my... did you get this from the TRAVELING MERCHANT? A strange individual, with indiscernable MOTIVES, but few entities possess GREATER arsenals! And now, you stand to CONTEST his championship! I shall BLESS you with the BLESSING OF MERCHANTS. But have PATIENCE. It is not for now, but for LATER!"*
17. *We have nothing to show.*
	* *"You INSULT me! You INSULT the three of us! You are worthless, and you WASTE. MY. TIME. Out, OUT! BEGONE with you, traveler! Next time, bring me SOMETHING worth tribute!"*

#### Wakeson's Advice

One of the following lines will be picked at random after receiving any tribute:

* *"Let me give you a WARNING, traveler. If you hurt Thest or Corby, I will SQUISH your tiny HEAD like a grape between my PALMS. I tear off your LIMBS, feed them to the voracious BAT DOGS, and use your head as a BOWLING BALL. I will SPIT on your corpse, LAUGH at your funeral, and PISS on your grave. DO NOT MESS WITH ME, TRAVELER! DO YOU HEAR ME?! DO YOU HEAR ME!?! I'm sure you do. Now leave."*
* *"Your cluster is VIOLENT. Your cluster is CRUEL. Despite all the SIMILARITIES, I MISS my home, and I DREAD this place. I do not share Corby's OPTIMISM, but I will keep an... open mind. At the very least, you have MANY weapons. That Traveling Merchant... he is a VENDOR of death and destruction, but at least he is won over with a sizeable WALLET. Just like the ELDERS. Just like the FOREFATHERS. DAMN THEM ALL!"*
* *"Let me tell you a STORY, Traveler. In my cluster, once, there were FIVE Elders. Toarde, STONEWALL (what a foolish nickname), Rutha, Murvara, and Pretore. They were the WORST of autocrats, and they KILLED many. They killed my SISTER. But... I was lucky enough to meet the Good Admiral. With her help, we laid WASTE to the Theocracy. We PAVED over the Elders! Hahah! It was a brillant victory, and for some years, we found PEACE AND PROSPERITY. But nothing good can ever last. Do not become ATTACHED to your life, Traveler. It is fickle. It will fail."*
* *"The Good Admiral is ALIVE in this reality! It is TREMENDOUS news. Yet, the CREED does not allow me to visit her. It does not allow us to do ANYTHING. What is the point of COMING HERE, of all our grief, if we are BEHOLDEN to such TYRANNY? I despise it. But Thest says we MUST follow the creed. Thest knows BEST. EVEN I do not question this."*
* *"Faith gets you NOWHERE, Traveler. There is NOTHING to even have faith in. The truth is that the Multiverse HATES you. It HATES me. It wants us to suffer. And to THIS, I see only one response. I will LIGHT ABLAZE anything which attempts to DRAG me into the dirt. Faith, Hah! I have FAITH in myself and in my GUNS. NOTHING else. Certainly not you, and certainly not this CLUSTER."*
* *"They say the Good Admiral had a BROTHER. I have NEVER met him. I heard he hid, like a COWARD, when DEATH came for us ALL! I did not HIDE! I will HUNT DOWN this disgraceful Obadann, and I will THROTTLE him. If he is dead in my CLUSTER, then he will soon be DEAD in yours! If only the CREED would let me..."*
* *"The COUNCIL says I blabber too much. I blabber too much about the CREED. I blabber too much about the Good Admiral. I blabber too much about revenge. I blabber too much about... IT. The dreaded P-WORD of which I must not SPEAK! I do not care if I BLABBER! The Council thinks I am not QUALIFIED for this job. But Thest DEFENDS me. Thest is wise. He is all knowing. The Council FEARS him. HAH! You should FEAR Thest too, Traveler. At least as much as you should FEAR me."*
* *"You should ARM yourself, Traveler. You might think you are PREPARED, but you are not. Your cluster will need ALL THE MIGHT it can get. Why? I wish I could TELL YOU. But I MAY not. Nor would I if I could. Do not WORRY too much. In time, you will UNDERSTAND why we are here."*

## Secret Interactions

These events were added in version 5.2.3 and they modify the way certain judges react to your crew/loadout even before you present a tribute.

### Corby

If A55H0L3 is present in your ship and you present yourself to Corby:

* *Corby pauses when she sees A55 on your crew. "Visual receptors must be - c-c-c-c-corrupted! Corrupted! This is impossible! Is it you? Could it [really] b-b-b-be you?!"*
	1. What?
		+ *You turn to A55, expecting him to know what's going on, but he's just as confused. "Sorry lass, but I ain't believing I've ever seen you before. I be Captain A5540L3, AI and pirate king, swashbuckler and apparently now an uh... interdimensional hero."*
			- *"Corby is f-f-f-fully aware of [who] you are! But... but... I cannot explain! The creed, it forbids me. It forbids me! Oh well. Seeing you has -given- me hope. Corby apologizes for the in-in-interuption! Interuption! Resuming previous activities: now."*
				1. (Proceeds to Corby's Tribute as normal)

### Wakeson

If Ariadne is present in your ship and you present yourself to Wakeson:

* *Wakeson stands stoicly as always, surveying your crew, until he eyes over Ariadne. At once, he begins to tremble. "The... you... the Good Admiral LIVES! Oh I have so much to tell you - the wicked one has YET to be VANQUISHED but with your help maybe... maybe..." Wakeson begins to sob, falling to his knees and repeating over and over something about the 'damned creed'.*
	1. Are you okay?
		+ *Ariadne isn't quite sure how to respond but tries to comfort the Rockman. "There there... stay strong soldier. I can't say we've yet met, but you seem to be a proud warrior. Our folk do not have time for tears. If there is a 'wicked one' you must face, then you need your best face."*
			- *"NO! We cannot... we cannot FACE the wicked one. He took EVERYTHING from us- no no no. I have SAID too much. Thest will be FURIOUS. But... seeing you live... it has given me hope." Wakeson shakes himself and gets back to his feet. "I APOLOGIZE. With no further delay, let us get to the TRIBUTE."*
				1. (Proceeds to Wakeson's Tribute as normal)

## Trivia

* Before 5.2.3, Thest's reaction to A55H0L3 was different:

```
*"This... this is not even crew... why have you shown me this? Is that a... pirate hat? His arm is... a buzzsaw? This... this is a... perfect being. It is... magnificent. This is the... greatest tribute I have ever received. Very well done, traveler... Expect... rewards before your next journey."*

```