The candlelight flickered, igniting the scent of whale oil, which lingered in the grand hall. In this era, the Portuguese colony of the Azores Islands had been established for over thirty years. Whaling activities also began to rely on the islands, becoming active in the surrounding seas. A steady stream of whale oil flowed from the sea into the court of Sintra.
"The spices of the East have a similar aroma, only stronger!... "
Joao II closed his eyes, taking in the rich amber fragrance. Even with the wealth of a Portuguese King, it was impossible to burn the tremendously expensive spices of the Catholic World as divine smoke, like the Mexica Alliance of the New Continent did. Just the thought of such a spectacle was quite distressing.
"The East... the East!..."
Dias looked towards the East, his eyes filled with intense desire.
