Irreplaceable
Do your best, but not too much. The last thing you want is to become Irreplaceable.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.
A bittersweet honor. What would happen if an Irreplaceable was able to train a potential replacement? Has that ever happened?
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.
Necromancy is a Wholesome Science.