After meeting Orochimaru, River's life in the Akatsuki remained as peaceful and leisurely as ever.
On the surface, he was a member of the organization, but in truth, he was the Akatsuki's boss behind the scenes.
Time passed slowly. River asked Orochimaru for the Summoning Contract for Ryūchi Cave and signed his name.
He wanted to derive a Sage Mode suited to humans by studying the different methods of cultivating natural energy in the Three Great Sage Lands.
Sage Mode was, in essence, simply the use of natural energy.
Once he understood that, everything became much simpler.
River lived in seclusion in the Land of Rain, occasionally having afternoon tea with Pain, Konan, and the others. Orochimaru, however, frequently came to visit.
More often than not, this member of Konoha's Sannin came with a reverent, respectful attitude to seek his advice on the theories behind various experiments and the directions they should take.
"So you also believe the Reincarnation Technique can succeed, River?"
River nodded at the question. "Of course!"
"However, this forbidden technique defies the natural order, and the depletion and erosion it causes to your soul are plain to see."
"If you use it rashly before cultivating your mental and spiritual power to a sufficient level, it will have serious consequences."
Orochimaru looked puzzled and asked earnestly, "What consequences do you think it will have, River?"
"Quite simply, incompatibility between your soul, your mind, and the host body."
"And the risks you'll have to take during the transfer because of your soul's fragility."
"These are all things you need to watch out for!"
River smiled faintly.
"If you truly want to research the theory of longevity..."
"I would recommend developing techniques to strengthen your essence, energy, and spirit."
"Rather than taking shortcuts."
Orochimaru shook his head and sighed