Although Vinsmoke Ichiji's voice was cold and stiff, he had stated the purpose of his visit in just a few words. Jinbe and Baby5 beside Uchiha Hiko were instantly moved. They had not expected to draw enough attention from the Germa Kingdom for them to consider forming an alliance.
Hiko lightly brushed his hand over the neatly stacked box of money and said calmly, "Dressrosa's current state can be called the poorest and most destitute country in the world. It can't even solve the problem of feeding and clothing its people, let alone its defensive forces, which are practically nonexistent. Is a country that could collapse at any moment really worth the Germa Kingdom's favor?"
Ichiji said, "We have already investigated Dressrosa's situation thoroughly. Your Excellency was able to coordinate every side, plan strategically, and lay the groundwork amid a field of ruins. Not only did you preserve the lives of hundreds of thousands in Dressrosa, but you even enabled this country to begin rebuilding. Such outstanding wisdom is truly admirable."
Hiko shrugged. "Strategic planning and all that won't be much help to the Germa Kingdom, will it?"
Ichiji nodded. "King Riku has always had a good reputation. Ever since Dressrosa began rebuilding, the neighboring countries have also offered aid one after another. If Dressrosa forms an alliance with Germa, then the other nations will follow Your Excellency's lead and join our alliance as well. With several countries of the New World united, our strength will grow enormously."
"There are far too many complications involved. A great alliance can't be formed just by saying a few words." Hiko said, "I appreciate Germa's goodwill, but Dressrosa has no spare strength to help you right now. We're struggling just to survive, so let's forget about an alliance."
Ichiji's gaze darkened. "Is our