A system includes at least two database systems that both store a common portion of a relational database and that are configured to share in execution of a database workload against that relational database. The system also includes a system-management component configured to receive indication that a first one of the database systems is ceasing operation and, in response, take a second one of the database systems to an operational state in which at least a portion of the database workload that is scheduled to be carried out by the first database system is transferred to the second database system.