Chapter 63
Rogue ninjas have their own channels for obtaining information, and there has been a lot of curiosity about Neiki, leading to countless rumors circulating in the rogue ninja community.
A Konoha ninja turning rogue wasn't unusual.
Every year, dozens, if not hundreds, defect from Konoha for various reasons. While most are eliminated shortly after defecting by Konoha's hunter-nin, some manage to escape due to their speed or strength. When Konoha cannot deal with these individuals on their own, they end up on the bounty list, which is known throughout the ninja world.
Neiki making it onto the bounty list was an acknowledgment of his strength. However, starting with a 60 million ryo bounty was considered excessive.
He was a relatively unknown ninja from Konoha, not someone legendary like Orochimaru, one of the Sannin. Orochimaru’s bounty wasn’t even as high. Veteran rogue ninjas who had been causing trouble for years couldn’t match Neiki’s initial bounty, leading to widespread disbelief.
The prevailing theory was not that Neiki had committed heinous acts, but that he possessed something precious to Konoha. Given his Hyuga Clan background, the implication was clear.
Many rogue ninjas, like sharks scenting blood, saw Neiki as a child walking through a bustling market with a treasure. He might have some skill, but they believed he couldn't stand up to a stronger adult. Otherwise, he would have already been famous in the ninja world.
However, when Zabuza heard Haku’s words, he was silent for a long time. His previous assumptions about Neiki were completely overturned.
The ninja world is a small circle. Some remain unknown because they live in peaceful times without many opportunities to shine.