When Blackbeard marched to attack Dressrosa, quite a few countries along the way did offer "protection money" in exchange for peace. Unfortunately, some nations were lucky enough to escape disaster, while others, despite paying a great deal, still could not avoid destruction in the end.
Now that Uchiha Hiko had defeated the Blackbeard Pirates and gained a terrifying boost in strength, countless nations saw his immense potential and were tempted, immediately flocking to pledge their allegiance.
Among them were even some who had rejected Uchiha Hiko when the alliance was first being established.
Kuzan fell silent. He had experienced the ugliness and malice of human hearts firsthand, and he was no stranger to these opportunistic politicians. They stood by and watched when danger came, then pledged themselves to the victor once the war was won. Such behavior had been common since ancient times.
"Reject them." Hiko said to King Riku, who stood nearby. "Let this serve as a warning to everyone else in the New World. Our alliance does not take just anyone. We will reject without hesitation those who fail to meet our requirements. No matter how strong their country may be, I will not give them a second glance!"
King Riku nodded. After Uchiha Hiko defeated Blackbeard, Hiko had become almost godlike in his eyes.
"What's happening on the Marine side?" Hiko asked.
There had indeed been a reason why the Marines had not sent troops to help Uchiha Hiko back then. One of the Four Emperors, Charlotte Linlin, wanted to send forces to reclaim her children and had prepared to attack the Marines, so Akainu had no choice but to withdraw his forces for defense. But after so much time had passed, it was impossible for two major powers to remain this quiet if they had truly