@Bearil
It doesn't change the fact that Raian is undoubtly one of the strongest around here, and changing your fighter for him can be a wise decision, particularly if your fighter is too injured.
@Kathartes
Ahah this was the best use the author could make of this rule !
(1) I don't think new characters will be introduced either (even if one or two is not totally impossible)
(2) I was about to say that I completely agree with that, then I realize that there could be some exceptions to that (and the one who make me realize that is Karla, the other Kure prodigy !)
(3) Yep Yep Yep
(4) I also think it's over for Seki, but I would'nt be so sure about Okhubo. He is strong, one of the strongest of the tournament (just unlucky he got the Fang), so a good reason (politics ?) could get him back in the tournament. And for Raian, he also just want to fight and slaughter (and Revenge will also be a great incentive) so he can go back !
Julius, with all the political scheme and the fact hat he lost to a surprise attack, is far from out to me.
I have no freaking idea who will sub for Bando ?but I really hope he does not come back like
@Pterodactyl said, I would find it kind of underwhelming after all the backstory with the governement. But the fact that they make an alliance with the Nogi group let the door open yeah.