Rivael

Rivael is a rarely invoked and deeply impactful custom on Nemani, used as a formal declaration to sever familial ties. It is not merely an expression of anger or disappointment; it is a binding, public statement that removes the recipient from their family’s lineage, responsibilities, and rights. Though seldom used, the mere existence of Rivael serves as a powerful cultural deterrent, encouraging Nemanoi youth to remain faithful to their responsibilities and uphold the expectations placed upon them by their families.

The Meaning of Rivael

To declare Rivael is to say, “You are no longer part of this family.” It is an irreversible act that removes the individual from their position within the family structure, both emotionally and practically. This includes:

• Disinheritance: The person loses all claims to the family’s legacy, wealth, and future.
• Symbolic Removal: Any tokens or heirlooms tied to familial responsibility, such as the family broach, are taken back and passed to another family member.
• Social Implications: While the individual is not ostracized from society, the declaration of Rivael carries a heavy stigma, and they are often seen as having failed their familial duties.

Despite its harshness, Rivael is not invoked lightly. It represents a last resort, used only when a family member’s actions are perceived as irreconcilable with the family’s values or expectations.

Cultural Purpose

The existence of Rivael reinforces the importance of familial duty within Nemanoi society. It serves as a reminder to young people that their actions and choices affect not only themselves but also the reputation and future of their families. This sense of accountability is central to Nemanoi culture, where families often operate businesses together and view their collective success as a shared responsibility.

The threat of Rivael, even if rarely acted upon, is enough to keep most Nemanoi faithful to their roles within the family and society. Its use is seen as a tragedy—a sign that a family has reached a point of no return with one of its members.

Adric’s Experience with Rivael

For Adric, the declaration of Rivael by his father, Kusi, was a devastating and life-altering event. The moment was not fueled by anger but by Kusi’s unwavering resolve. By severing Adric from the family, Kusi ensured that Adric was no longer bound to the expectations of inheriting the family’s glassblowing business, freeing him to pursue his life aboard a starship.

The act was formalized when Adric’s mother, Seryn, reclaimed the family broach in the garden and passed it to Adric’s younger sister, Lyara, signifying her new role as the family’s successor. For Adric, this moment crystallized the finality of Rivael, leaving him to grapple with the loss of his familial ties and the freedom—and burden—that came with it.

While Rivael devastated Adric emotionally, it also allowed him to move forward without guilt, fully embracing his life within the Galactic Alliance and the adventures that awaited him. Yet, the memory of his father’s declaration and the cultural weight of Rivael continue to shape Adric’s understanding of responsibility, identity, and family.