In the Continent Martial Arts Competition, the participants are merciless, often killing their opponents outright.
Allowing surrender in the duels diminishes the competitive spirit, fails to exhibit sportsmanship, and doesn't inspire the participants to exert their utmost abilities.
Therefore, surrender is implicitly invalid; one's survival after defeat depends entirely on the winner's will.
Thus, a vicious cycle arises: I spare you, but who will spare me?
However, the essence of the Continent Martial Arts Competition is, firstly, the Emperor's personal hobby, secondly, the Military Department's recruitment of new blood, and lastly, the National Bank's profits from gambling.
Should everyone die, what fresh blood could be recruited? The problem of stagnation within the military would intensify.
