Hmm I think I mis read your post. You’re saying it was supposed to unlock at 9 but you unlocked at 8 to test it. So yes that’s correct, it will still send an unlock command at 9 even though nothing will happen as it’s already unlocked (that’s the simpler scheduler).
Any mains powered Z-Wave Plus devices acts like a repeater (most mains powered Z-Wave devices also act as repeaters but there a few exception, however all Z-Wave Plus mains powered Z-Wave devices act like repeaters). Examples would be wall switches, mains powered z-wave outlets/plugs, mains powered thermostat devices etc.