Chapter 718: Implications of a simple move!
One day before, Illumi sent his Shadow Clones to look out for Kakashi. Even though he created the battle strategy for Sakura, giving her some chance of winning against Gaara, he knew the risks if she failed. He wanted to ask Kakashi to rescue her when that happened.
Unfortunately, his clones couldn't find Kakashi. So, he visited Fujin, informed him about her attack strategy and asked him to save her in case Gaara retaliated. Considering the amount of disturbance her death would cause to the future, Fujin had no reason to refuse. That is why Illumi was calm throughout the match.
"Calm down. You're safe." Hearing Fujin's voice and seeing that she was no longer about to be engulfed by the sand, Sakura's fear subsided. Even though her heart was still beating rapidly, being next to Fujin and Guy made her feel safer. Her knees eventually gave out as she collapsed to the ground while breathing rapidly.
Lee immediately checked up on her and asked, "Sakura, are you alright?"
Sakura nodded. She looked at Fujin and said, "Thank you."
Fujin casually replied, "Don't worry about it."
He turned his gaze back to the arena, where Gaara was looking hatefully at Fujin. It was the second time Fujin saved his prey. Needless to say, Baki intervened before Gaara did anything stupid.
Hayate announced, "Due to outside interference, Haruno Sakura is disqualified. Gaara is the winner of this round."
Fearing that Sakura would be depressed, Lee said, "Don't worry, Sakura-chan. You did great!"