Irreplaceable

Do your best, but not too much. The last thing you want is to become Irreplaceable.
— parents' caution to a child upon conscription
  To be labeled Irreplaceable in the Confederation is to be given a badge of the highest honor and the deepest pain.

Causes

Not everyone can be replaced. Sometimes an individual proves so talented or innovative that attempting to assign someone else to fulfill their tasks is a recipe for failure. The availability of this talent becomes necessary for success, and in the Sparnell Armed Forces? Nothing is more important than success.   Those identified as a linchpin are labeled as Irreplaceable, and this is where their troubles start.

Prognosis

Those labeled Irreplaceable by the Sparnell Confederation are barred from the Afterlife, forced to remain on the mortal plane. Upon death their souls return to the Soul Vault deep beneath SAF Military Headquarters, ready for binding or resurrection.   The Irreplaceable have little say in the matter, some compelled by magical means, others through coercion or threats against loved ones, each method customized to ensure the maximum compliance of the Irreplaceable individual.

Prevention

The easiest way to avoid being labeled Irreplaceable is to avoid catching the attention of Sparnell Fleet Command. Given the constant drive to seek glory and prestige for self and Family, this is unfortunately easier said than done for those possessing sheer talent.   Other options include seeking sponsorship from one of the few Admirals who have not yet exercised the opportunity to declare a subordinate Irreplaceable, in the hope this is due to more than simply not recruiting an underling worthy of the label. Prior to his disappearance, Admiral Kydell had proven himself a popular choice in certain circles due to public comments he had made against the practice. Others recommended avoiding his service if possible, as while he had never invoked his capabilities to declare an Irreplaceable he also had a suspiciously high record of re-enlisted talent.

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No. You don't understand. But how could you? You haven't watched generations of those you love grow and change and pass on into the next life, knowing you'll spend an eternity the same as you are today, just as you were an eternity ago.   No. It's not an honor. It's a curse.
— an Irreplaceable


Cover image: Planet Moon Solar by LoganArt

Comments

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Apr 29, 2022 10:24 by Annie Stein

A bittersweet honor. What would happen if an Irreplaceable was able to train a potential replacement? Has that ever happened?

Creator of Solaris -— Come Explore!
Apr 29, 2022 11:12 by Morgan Biscup

The Confederation is reluctant when it comes to change. If one is known well enough for their abilities it is difficult to get out of the responsibility for them, but it could happen. If your replacement is better than you and your Family is okay with giving up the honor your work brings to them (more likely if that replacement is also from the Family) then it is possible.   Innovation does not happen often because of the fear of becoming Irreplaceable, but Families have successfully staked their entire success on them to rise in power.

Lead Author of Vazdimet.
Necromancy is a Wholesome Science.
May 24, 2022 23:38 by E. Christopher Clark

Ooh, I love this. It was great to read this after the Sage seminar the other day where we looked at your world. Really reminded me of why this story you're building is so compelling.

Enroll in Yesterland Academy today!
May 25, 2022 02:01 by Morgan Biscup

Thank you so much!

Lead Author of Vazdimet.
Necromancy is a Wholesome Science.
May 26, 2022 08:58 by Diane Morrison

Well, this is downright creepy! Good work!

Author of the Wyrd West Chronicles and the Toy Soldier Saga. Mother of Bunnies, Eater of Pickles, Friend of Nerds, First of her Name.
Jul 15, 2022 19:21 by Catoblepon

Such a remarkable turn to typical conditions being illness, I like it! I wonder if being Irreplaceable can be lost...

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