Tigan, Lateran Palace.
Pope Constantine kindly looked at his only godson and smiled, "Joseph, you've done a good job during this period, the dozen or so sieges of the Dark Wanderers were planned rigorously and thoroughly, and done cleanly and sharply, and the Knights of the Light and the Inquisition are all full of praise for you. ... "
Cardinal Joseph smiled faintly and said blandly, "Your Majesty, you flatter me too much!"
"With achievements, it is natural to praise!"
Pope Constantine said bluntly, "Nowadays, the two major war powers of the Holy See have good feelings towards you, and although it's not to the point of supporting your rise to the throne, it's at least a bit more intimate. Compared to the other cardinals, you are already more than one step ahead!"
"Your Majesty, thank you for your cultivation!"
Pope Constantine smiled faintly and asked, "Do you know why I would favor you to take over my position as Pope?"