I'm finally back.

Yes, I've returned with another chapter and an apology. I haven't been keeping up with my stories like I said I would be.

School has been insane the past few weeks and I just couldn't find the time to get the story done.

But I'm back and ready to work. I can't promise that I'll be pumping chapters out every week, but I'll do what I can.

Thanks to all those for following and favoriting the story and enjoy the next chapter.

I own nothing except for my OC.

**"Talking"**

**Thinking**

**"Zanpakuto/Hollow Talking"**

**Zanpakuto/Hollow Thinking**

**Back in the Meeting Hall**

"Protect the Innocent, Prodyous!"

The blinding light caused all those watching to shield their eyes or look away. When it died down, what they saw caused their eyes to widen and their jaws drop in shock and awe.

Arthur's wounds had disappeared and his body was emitting a small amount of light, as well as an aura of calm and peace, but there was also an air of power and authority around him. His feet were bare, as was his upper body. His legs were covered by a robe-like bottom, with intricate designs and a gold lining going down the length of the legs. His zanpakuto was still in the shape of a katana, but the blade was now made of a white energy. But the most noticeable thing about his change was what was coming out of his back.

Two wings had appeared from his back, the tips reaching down to just above his ankles. They were each about the size of his body and were a grayish-silver color. When he opened his eyes, there was a collective gasp among those watching. They were the same, but different. He had a look of both complete determination and tranquility and there also seemed to be a ring of white surrounding his pupils. He gave a wolfish smile to Kenpachi and caused some of the females blush. "Wow, he's hot." No one paid much heed to what Rangiku said, except for one.

Isane nodded slightly, but frowned as she felt a sense of jealousy grow inside her.

**Back with Arthur and Kenpachi**

Kenpachi stared at Arthur for a moment and then let out a booming laugh. "Good, good. Now we can make this interesting." Arthur responded with a confident smirk and readied his weapon; a stream of light following the blade as it moved. Kenpachi did the same and chuckled menacingly, "Make this fun kid."

Just as they were going to charge at one another, the Head Captain and Captain Unohana appeared between the two combatants. "That will be sufficient Captain Zakarai. Captain Unohana, please see to the Kuchiki." Unohana nodded and picked up the unconscious girl before taking her to the 4th Division. "Now then, let us return to the others." And with that, they Shunpo-ed back to the hall.

**Back in the Meeting Hall**

All chatter came to a halt when the three appeared before them. Yamamoto and Kenpachi returned to their respective places before speaking; "Now then, we shall start with the Lieutenants. What are your thoughts?"

It was basically a unanimous decision. They all agreed that he was powerful and resourceful enough. The only one who was against it was Marechiyo, but he decided to stay quiet at all the looks he was receiving. Next were the Captains and their decisions. Yet again, it was a majority that believed he was ready to join. Those that thought otherwise were Aizen, Tousen, Ichimaru, and Byakuya. Aizen was the one who spoke first. "I can see that the boy is certainly powerful and I feel that he would be a great addition, but he does not have the experience necessary." Those that were against it agreed with a nod of their heads. All eyes went to the Head Captain to see what he had to say on the matter. He opened both his eyes and looked over the person standing before him, ending when their eyes met.

Arthur, whose form had long returned to normal, stared back into the elder's. "I believe that though he may lack the experience, he has the power, courage, resourcefulness, and conviction that many who have already joined lack. Welcome to our ranks, Arthur Richards. You will report to the 11th Division Barracks tomorrow morning."

Arthur walked down the dark street and stopped at the same bar that he and his friends had first met two years ago. He had been told by Captain Ukitake to meet there at 10:30, but didn't say why; only that was important. As he walked up to the door, he saw a sign that read, "Closed for Private Function". He raised an eyebrow and opened the door to find the whole place in pitch black. He took a step inside and was momentarily blinded by the sudden amount of light. Once his vision cleared, his eyes widened.

"CONGRATULATIONS!"

There was confetti falling to the ground and a big banner with the word "CONGRATULATIONS!" spelled out in big, colorful letters. There was also a cake on the center table with cups and party hats surrounding it. Behind the table were all of Arthur's friends and teachers. There was Kyoraku with his arm around the shoulders of his Lieutenant, Nano, and Jushiro Ukitake. Rangiku had Toshiro's head in her hand and was giving a peace sign with the other. Renji, Momo, and Hisagi were all standing on top of the bar counter with poppers in their hands as they fired off more confetti. Isane stood next to Retsu; both with big smiles directed towards him. Ichiru stood on Kenpachi's shoulder; hopping up and down with excitement. Said Captain had his trademark grin on his face. Even Soi-fon was there; a small smile on her face as she lifted her cup in Arthur's direction.

Arthur just stood there and blinked a few times before a large smile covered his face. He walked in and started to greet and thank all those that were present for throwing him the party. When he got to Isane, he was surprised when she stepped closer and kissed his cheek. He saw her smile and blushed; stuttering and scratching the back of his head.

It was a fun night. Everybody was drinking, except for Arthur and Jushiro. Even Unohana was having a few drinks. When it was time to cut the cake, a small argument began about who would get to be the one to cut it. When it got to a point that it seemed swords would be drawn, a loud belch was heard from behind everybody. They all turned around to see Arthur patting his stomach; the cake gone and only a few crumbs left in its place. "Man that was great! Who made it?" He then felt a decent amount of killing intent being directed towards him.

He turned his head slowly to see the terrifyingly sweet smile of Unohana. "I did. It was supposed to be for everyone, but I'm glad you liked it." Arthur began to sweat bullets and gave everyone a weak smile, "Ha ha, sorry everybody." They all responded with chuckles and asserting him that it was fine.

The rest of the night was a blur of both party and drinking games. Kyoraku won most of the drinking games and even talked Unohana into joining in a game. It was around 2 o'clock in the morning when everybody started to leave.

Unohana had left about an hour earlier than everyone else, so Arthur decided to walk Isane back to her barracks. She accepted with a slurred "yes" and together they walked out of the bar. Not a block later, Isane tripped on herself for the fourth time. Arthur caught her and sighed, "Okay, you're drunk. Come here." He put her arm around his shoulder and kept her steady while they walked. They went the next few minutes in silence before they both tripped up on a rock. They tumbled for a while before coming to a stop. To say that they were in an "interesting" position would be an understatement. Isane was laying on top of Arthur, her chest pressing against his and leaving a generous amount of cleavage to bee seen. one of her legs was pressing down lightly on Arthur's crotch; causing a small groan to escape his lips. Arthur's position was no better. One of his hands was holding her close; pushing on her back towards himself. His other hand was on her rear; holding a bit too hard, earning him a moan of her own.

Arthur froze after hearing her; turning away with his face now a bright red. "A-are you alright?" He asked her; his voice shaking slightly. All he got was a round of drunken giggles in response. Confused, Arthur turned back to find his eyes staring right back into Isane's. "That's one of the reasons I like you so much. You're always making sure that someone else is okay before you worry about yourself." Arthur felt his face grow hotter after that statement. "You're kind, smart, handsome, and caring." Her face was now inches from his own. "That's why...I think I love you." And with those words, she kissed him. Her lips met his and Arthur, in his shock, had his mouth open, leaving Isane's tongue to explore Arthur's mouth freely. Arthur just sat there for few moments, his eyes wide with shock. Realizing what was happening, his body took over. His eyes closed and began to kiss her back, his tongue now rolling together with hers. The hand on her back pulled her tighter, pressing her body firmly against his. Isane moaned into Arthur's mouth, her body grindning into his as the kiss grew more heated. After what seemed like hours, Isane pulled her head back and stared into Arthur's eyes. Both were panting hard, out of breath and excited.

Arthur grinned as he broke the silence; "So, you want to go and get something to eat? Say tomorrow night?" Isane couldn't help but chuckle at the casual tone that Arthur was using. She kissed him again, this time gently; "I would love to." Arthur responded with a large grin.

Standing up, Isane offered Arthur her hand, who took it and stood up next to her. They began to walk back, Isane still stumbling about. After a few more minutes, Arthur swept her up and began to walk; carrying her bridal-style. Isane gave a small shriek before giggling and then proceeding to nuzzle her face into his chest; letting out what sounded like a satisfied sigh. Arthur smiled before asking what was on both of their minds, "So, uh, does this make us...you know." Isane just pulled his head down to meet hers; kissing him softly. "Does that answer your question?"

Arthur simply grinned and continued to walk in silence. A few minutes later, he heard a small sound come from the woman in his arms. Looking down, he saw Isane snoring softly into his chest. Arthur kissed her forehead before walking back to the Seireitei, although a bit slower.

And there we go. Chapter 8 is finally completed.

I want to once again apologize for taking so long in getting this out to you all. School and life at home has been pretty hectic.

I'm gonna try to get more of these out as often as time will permit me. Until then.

Reaper, over and out.