In this case, perhaps, as you were smaller simply by choice (being the only kingdom in the top not to explore from their first war). But yes, the mechanic appears to need some tweaking. In fact, I'm not sure I understand the logic of even having throttling when there's an auto surrender option.
atleast have auto surrender/CF work both ways? like if we dont attack for 12 hrs and meter difference is still 100+?
I dont know something like that