Hello again friends. Here is the next chapter in the story. I am really glad that the story is getting a good response. When I was polling to write this story or another one this one didn't get a lot of votes but people sure like it so lets keep going.

Thanks for the reviews. I like them.

Disclaimer: Don't own Naruto and probably never will.

Enjoy the chapter!!!!

Chapter 4

All her mind could think about was what her mother had told her. For days she had sat in her studio just gazing at the picture in front of her. There was no longer inspiration. Though she had successfully tried to not be in the same room as the prince. Their last encounter was still on her mind. The thoughts of how her father could have wanted her to marry such a man was almost incomprehensible to her. What exactly did her father see in him. She would have to admit that he was rather good looking. That was practically the first thing she noticed about him. Most of the men she knew around the age of eighteen and nineteen still had childlike qualities to them yet he didn't. He didn't have the demeanor of someone just coming into themselves. He commanded attention with his presence. His height was staggering to her and the way he carried himself. He was a warrior anyone could tell. The way his body moved when he walked. The athleticism he had and the leanness. It was almost as if he was the definition of what a warrior was.

Shaking her head she knew she needed to get these thoughts out of her head. He had continually disrespected her. The way he had studied her the other day was nerve wracking. The way he looked at her. As if she was nothing more than a noble woman that should know her place and take it gracefully and she did but at times she knew she had a temper. She could remember many times getting chastised by her father for inappropriate behavior that she had exhibited towards others specifically males. Sighing she set down the brush she had been holding for a good five minutes. How could this man make her life so complicated?

The days soon passed and it came time for the Uchihas to leave. Lord Uchiha was already mounted on his steed. Lord Haruno watched as the other Lord talked to his men. Turning around when he heard foorsteps he saw the Prince walking towards him and surprisingly his daughter behind the Prince. The Prince walked in front of the Lord. Sakura made her way towards her father's sides. When she became still Sasuke bowed to the Lord and then to her. "Thank you for your hospitality." he calmy stated with little emotion. Lord haruno dipped his head towards the Prince. Sasuke looked at the daughter of the Lord before him. She wore a light yellow dress and her hair was back in a braid and took notice she was avoiding his gaze and he slightly smirked. Again he slightly bowed and then descended the stairs towards his own animal. Mounting the horse Lord Haruno noticed Lord Uchiha whisper something to the younger one. The boy just nodded and they set off at a walk making their way out of the courtyard.

The father/daughter pair watched the Lord and Prince ride out of the gates. Standing side by side they just watched until they were no longer seen. "Lord Miashi's son will be coming soon." Sakura closed her eyes and then looked at her father. "Yes, father." she turned and went inside not wanting to talk about the next prince that would want to claim her for their own. Her head hung low just thinking about the prospect of meeting another prince.

Five days later the Uchihas arrived back at the Uchiha Castle. They had wanted to return as soon as possible and had their horses pick up the pace about an hour after leaving the Haruno Castle. Sasuke was just glad that he wasn't going to be riding for a while. Though he had spent many days in a saddle he was still a little sore from riding so long. Looking up at the great doorway he could already see his mother awaiting them.

Lady Uchiha watched as her husband and son rode into th courtyard and gracefully dismount from their mount. Knowing they would be entering in a few minutes she went back inside her long raven hair flowing behind her as she made her way to a parlor. Seating herself she soon heard the doors reopening and the footsteps of the Uchiha men. Smiling when they entered the room she found her feet to give her son a hug which he returned.

"How was the stay at Lord Harunos." she began. "Lord Haruno was a courteous host as was his daughter." "What is she like. I have only stories of the girl." Fugaku looked at his son before starting. "A fine woman. Very mature for a young age. She is as beautiful as the rumors say. A fine artist as well. She even painted something for you." Mikoto's eyes grew wide. "She did?" "Yes, she is very skilled with the art. The drawings I saw were exquisite." Waving a hand to a servant the servant left and then came back with a case with the painting enclosed inside of it. The servant handed the case to her. She lightly tugged at the string fastening the top and slowly tilted the case to let the picture slip out. Placing the case down she began to unroll the painting. Her eyes grew when she saw the picture and then moved to that of her husband and son. "Have you seen this painting?" "No." Fugaku said and Sasuke shook his head. Her face took on an amused look and she slowly turned the picture to face the two men.

Looking at the picture Sasuke's face took on a look of shock. Fugakua's resembled his sons. They gazed at the picture. Sasuke immediately knew when she had drawn it. When he had been in the studio with her. It was what she was so furiously working on. The fact he couldn't get over was the likeness. It looked exactly like him. "She must be very talented indeed to draw such a drawing." Mikoto mused loving the expressions on the mens' faces. The older Uchiha nodded his head while the other looked almost baffled. She drew him so perfectly. Heck she had hardly looked at him and this is what she had done. Was there more to this girl than just a prize to be won.

In the drawing the details were exquisite. Precise. Everything in its place. The person drawn depicted clearly. His mood was clearly shown. The features correct down the precise expressions. Anyone could clearly see the person drawn but the small details held the onlooker captivated. The light and dark playing across the painting. The small shadows that had creeped into it. There was feeling in the drawing and not just the feelings on the man in the picture. Feelings of confusion, loyalty, pondering. What the girl had done was something that no one could explain. He grew frustrated looking at the painting and left the room. Who was this girl that could captivate someone so easily?

His parents watched him walk out of the room. Mikoto turned back to her husband setting down the painting down gently. "So how did the visit go?" making conversation again. "Good. Sasuke could have been a little more helpful though. Apparently Akira is already making his way to the Haruno lands." Fugaku frowned. "If only Lord Miashi hadn't of interrupted the plans. We wouldn't have to worry about future heirs of the kingdom." "Lord Miashi has always been like that. Do you know what kind of game he might be playing at?" "I don't, though I wish I did. He has always moved so craftily. I doubt Lord Haruno suspects anything as it is his daughter that is on the line." Fugaku sighed. "I feel sorry for the girl. I don't want to even think about what could happen to her if she marries into the Miashi Kingdom." "It would be a shame for such a girl." "If Sasuke was a little more interested then we might not have to worry as much." "Sasuke is Sasuke. He has never been that interested in woman. Though I agree with you we wouldn't have to worry as much." Mikoto looked through a window. "Her future is so uncertain."

The man stretched his back astride the horse. Him and his escorts were close to their destination. All he had though about the last few days were his father's instructions of getting the princess to fall in love with him and then once the contract was signed with his name on it then the 'plan' would be complete. Though he didn't know exactly all the details of the plan and frankly he really didn't care at the moment. Moving his gaze towards the horizon he saw the towers of the castle appear. Thank goodness he was almost there.

Sakura was walking through the gardens. She always loved walking through the gardens in the afternoon. The flowers always seemed more alive to her especially today. They were in full bloom and color was everywhere. Her thoughts strayed to the man that would soon be arriving to meet and court her. She wondered what he looked like and what he was like. If he was like Prince Sasuke she would go crazy even though the prince had constantly been on her mind. She really didn't want another rock roaming the castle insulting and disrespecting her. He was cold and never talked unless it suited him and when he did talk it was always commanding and rude. She sighed heavily recalling the prince, again. She sat down on a bench near a fountain wondering again what the next one would be like.

Lord Haruno was in his study when messengers arrived informing him of the Prince's arrival. Waving them off he continued to look at certain documents. He had re-read the documents several times and each time he did Lord Miashi seemed to haunt the presence of the documents. Setting the documents down and covering them up he made his way out of the room to greet the new guest. Passing a servant he insturcted him to inform Sakura of the guest's arrival. Lord Haruno continued to walk towards the main entrance.

Sakura sat silently on the bench still pondering over things when she heard a set of footsteps approach her. Turning she saw a servant making their way towards her. "Milady, a guest has arrived. Your father has requested your presence in the front parlor." the servant bowed and left. Sighing heavily she got up off the bench and made her way towards the parlor.

He had dismounted and was being led up the staircase in the courtyard. The doors were opened for him and he stepped inside the entryway. He soon saw a man walking towards him. The man was soon near enough to speak to him. "Welcome Prince Akira. It is good to see you have arrived." The prince bowed before the man. "Thank you for welcoming me, Lord Haruno. It is an honor to be here." "Such manners. You don't always have to be so formal young prince." The older man said. "Please follow me to the parlor. My daughter will meet us there." Akira nodded and followed the Lord. They entered the parlor and sat down.

Moments later a light rasp was heard on the door. Both men looked towards the door. Akira stood up when he saw the woman standing there. She was beautiful as she wore a baby blue dress with her hair clipped in the back and her orbs seemed to shine. "Princess." he bowed and she curtsied. "Hello Prince Akira." she formally addressed him. He laughed a warm laugh. "No need for formalities with me Princess. You may call me Akira." Sakura looked uneasy at the thought and looked at her father. She saw him nod to do as the prince requested. "Of course....Akira." slowly getting the words out. "Thank you Sakura. May I call you Sakura?" she nodded her consent. Turning to her father she asked him if she could leave. He agreed and she left the two men. Akira sat down. "She is a charming girl." Akira noted. "Thank you. She is very talented and will make a fine wife to any man." the conversation continued.

Sakura made her way back out to the gardens. Her mind kept replaying the moments with the other prince. He seemed kind. She pictured his face. His dark brown hair that was neatly cut but slightly hung down. His light brown eyes and the smile he had given her. He had actually smiled at her and showed more emotion to her in the first five minutes than Sasuke had done throughout his entire visit. If she was picking on first impressions Akira would certainly win. But she knew it wasn't just first impressions. They were helpful but how would he act in the days to come? She decided to make her way up towards her studio.

Entering her studio she saw the original painting that she was going to send to Lady Uchiha but instead had sent the portrait of Sasuke. She knew her choice was a bold one but something inside of her had pleaded with her to send the portrait. Sitting on the stool in front of the original painting she took up the brush and began to paint, something she had not been able to do in days. Losing track of time she painted until a maid came to tell that dinner was ready. Setting down the brush she stood and brushed the wrinkles from her dress and slowly walked out of the room.

Arriving at the dining hall she already saw her father, mother and Akira sitting there. She wanted to avoid her father's gaze as she knew he was probably upset that she was late to dinner, especially with a guest. "My apologies for being late." she said quickly sitting down. "May I ask where you were that caused you to be detained?" her father's voice sounded cold and she inwardly flinched. "Yes, I was in my studio finishing a painting." Her father scowled but her mother looked pleased. She had known that Sakura had had troubles painting ever since the painting of Sasuke. "That is unacceptable Sakura. Make sure it doesn't happen again." "Yes, father." Sakura bowed her head. Akira, who was sitting next to her noticed her downcast face but did not say anything. Dinner was silent until Sakura escused herself and left quickly being followed by the Haruno matron.

"I'm sorry you had to see that." Lord Haruno apologized. "Nothing to worry about. You did what you thought was best. I do not condone your actions." The Lord looked at the prince wondering if he had based his son on what he knew of his father. Lord Haruno excused himself leaving Akira to be seated alone until he too left. He wandered around the castle until two female voices caught his attention.

"Your painting again?" "Yes, mother." "What brought this on? You haven't been able to draw since you drew the Prince." Akira gasped. 'So Sasuke was here before him and she drew him!' He continued to listen to the conversation. "Yes, I know but I wanted to finish the original painting I started for Lady uchiha. Today when I sat down it felt right again." "Does it have anything to do with out new guest?" "Mother!" the voice sounded appalled. "Well, ever since Prince Sasuke left you haven't been able to draw a thing and now Prince Akira comes and you can draw again." "I haven't known the Prince for that long so I can't make assumptions." he heard a sigh. "I am just so confused right now."

He heard movement from inside the room and pretended that he was walking by when Sakura opened the door and bumped into him. "Prince! Excuse me." Sakura bowed her head. "I didn't mean to run into you." Akira looked at the startled girl. "It is quite alright Sakura. May I ask where you are going?" The girl looked confused. "Of course. I am on my way to my studio." "May I accompany you then?" she looked at him. He was making an effort too behave properly. "You may." with that she led the way towards her studio with Akira right behind her.

Entering her studio with Akira right on her heels. He stopped after he soon entered the room. "You drew all of these?" "Yes." she replied sitting down on the stool. Picking up her brush she began to move it across the canvas thinking how Akira was so different than Sasuke. He had actually asked to come with her instead of barging in. He had respected her.

She heard his footsteps approach her. She felt him place his hands upon her shoulders. "It will be a beautiful drawing when finished." he murmured into her ear. Sakura felt a shiver run down her spine when she felt his warm breath on her neck. Closing her eyes she began to revel in the feeling. 'This feels good but doesn't feel right.' her mind thought and almost instantly a image of Sasuke appeared in her mind causing her eyes to fly open. The hands that once rested on her shoulders were now on her waist. Putting the brush back against the canvas she again began to paint. All the while she felt him rest his forehead against her back between her shoulder blades and his arms encircled her waist. Her heart began to beat faster. 'what is he doing?' her mind was running wild. "Sakura." he whispered into her neck. She felt his lips move against her skin and soon one hand released its position on her waist to brush her hair away from her neck. Soon she felt a light kiss against her skin and then another and another. "A..akira?" "Yes he murmered against her skin before placing another kiss on her neck. "What are you doing?" her voice quivered and shook. "Kissing you." it sounded almost husky. Gathering her voice back. "please stop." it was a whispered plea. Feeling his kisses stop she breathed a little easier. She could feel his gaze bearing into her and soon she felt him remove his hand from her waist and she heard him leave the room. She let out a relieved sigh and too removed herself from the room. She walked back to her chamber in silence her mind spinning from the Prince's advancements on her.

Akira woke early the next morning and was standing on the veranda. Soon a messenger hawk appeared and flew towards him. Akira caught the bird and removed the message. It was from his father. Lifting his arm to the air the bird flew off. Returning into the castle he informed Lord Haruno that he needed to return back home as his father needed him for something urgent. Lord Haruno watched the young prince leave. Lord Haruno felt that something was not right and asked into the wind. "What are you planning Lord Miashi?"

So I wanted to get this out earlier. But I am putting it out at midnight. I really love you guys.

So how was it. I hope you all enjoyed it. Akira is a little ew but just go with the story. I told you the chapters are going to get longer. This is the longest chapter I have written and I am really proud of myself. Sorry for any grammar mistakes. Its late.

This chapter really starts to open the story up so be prepared for a really good next chapter, but it is going to be kind of sad. Forewarning. But really good.

So please review. I like getting reviews and they let me know the story is good. So please just a few reviews maybe 3 or 4.

Ja

yoyo