It doesn't necessarily have to be free. But if the map author's intention is to give a "certain" advantage to a hero, then not at the cost of a broken keyboard and gouged-out eyes.
As for Heroes 4... Yes, this tournament is already ongoing, but it's not the last one... In the future, such moments can be anticipated. I myself am all for saving time in any form, but when the question borders on "legality," to avoid such lengthy disputes, it's better not to create such situations (fights like 1 vs 1000, 5000, 10000, etc.).