[ID: Three pages of a journal article titled "A Courteous Rebuttal to Comments on the Histcarp (Argonimum arboris) in Archmage Ernaretus' Recent "Shimmering Waters: A Compendium of the Swimming and Submerged Beasts of the Tamrielic Empire, Volume 4" attributed to "Chases-Many-Fishes" of the "Riften Fisheries Science Unit"
There is a floral section break graphic between the title and author section, and the body of the text.
The main body of the text is as follows:
"I am writing this missive to address and refute (most respectfully) the above passage in Archmage Ernaretus' recent volume of Shimmering Waters, the seminal series on water-based animals of the realm. I must express that I hold great respect for Archmage Ernaretus' body of work as his descriptions of the ecology, behavior, and physiology of Tamriel's freshwater organisms is unparalleled. However, as both a student of ichthyology and a child of Argonia, I feel I must object to the Archmage's brief and reductive entry on one of our realm's most interesting species- the Histcarp (Argonimum arboris). I am hopeful that in correcting this oversight, future volumes may issue a revision to better characterize the species. See the relevant passage below:
Excerpt from page 2 of 'Shimmering Waters' volume 4
[quote] Though the species hardly compares to the more illustrious counterparts addressed in the remainder of this text, the Histcarp's widespread range throughout Tamriel justifies at least a brief inclusion in this registry of the aqautic beasts of the realm. Believed to have originated in the fetid swamps of Black Marsh, this small dingy-orange fish is now found in all nine provinces of Tamriel. Some theorize the species may show migratory behavior but limited evidence for this has been provided. Behavior is likely similar to other freshwater fish. The Histcarp appears to be of minimial ecological importance to the waterways of the realm. [end quote]
One of my esteemed colleagues at the College of Winterhold has done me the favor of editing this dispatch (though he justifiably requested I not include his name here), and he gently advised me that "composing a fully articulated rebuttal to a single paragraph in a publication that is largely unrelated to [your] body of work is not only unwise but will seem the edge of madness to most readers." Well, given the proven quality of all prior advice from this individual, I must admit he may be correct. Even so, I feel the enormity of the mischaracterization of this fish must be addressed, so I will allow myself this one footstep closer to that edge. I shall tithe to the shrine of Sheogorath accordingly once I have expelled the ravings from my mind and bound them into this manuscript for your perusal.Â
As I have very distinct opinions regarding each of Archmage Ernaretus' remarks on the Histcarp, I think it will be most efficient to address each sentance individually with specific notations on the evidence to support my remarks as indicated.Â
[quote] 1. "Though the species hardly compares to the more illustrious counterparts addressed in the remainder of this text, the Histcarp's widespread range throughout Tamriel justifies at least a brief inclusion in this registry of the aqautic beasts of the realm." [end quote]
This opening sentence of the Archmage's discussion on Histcarp is immediately disapointing. To begin with an insulting comparison that positions this species as inherently less valuable than other osteichthyans will bias many readers seeking to learn more information on the species. The following implication that even this brief inclusion is perfunctory and undeserved suggests a certain disdain from the author that I hope is not present in truth.
[quote] 2. "Believed to have originated in the fetid swamps of Black Marsh, this small dingy-Â orange fish is now found in all nine provinces of Tamriel." [end quote]
Most Argonians understand that our homeland is often seen as hostile or unpleasant to outsiders. The wetlands that are home to my kind are beautiful and misunderstood outside of Argonia. To reduce such vast and ever-changing ecosystems to "fetid swamps" is almost offensively reductive. I also object to the physical description of the species as "dingy-orange," not for inaccuracy but moreso as it merely seems needlessly scornful. Perhaps the Histcarp bears no breathtaking beauty, but when one considers the author's extensive and admiring words on the Cyrodilic Spadetail (a very similiar looking species) it does not seem necessary to highlight the Histcarp's mundane appearance as a key feature of the species.Â
[quote] 3. "Some theorize the species may show migratory behavior but limited evidence for this has been provided." [end quote]
This remark is the most specifically erroneus comment present, and my primary correction to offer for this text. Histcarp migration patterns have been studied by the people of Argonia for nearly as long as the species has existed. We know for verifiable fact that although Histcarp are capable of breeding and spawning throughout the realm, the vast majority of populations migrate to their birthplace in the waterways of Argonia to reproduce. Longitudinal studies have confirmed that individuals bred outside of the province produce offspring with stunted anatomy and significantly shortened lifespan. The species bears a deep connection to The Hist, which is alluded to in both its name in the common tongue and in Jel. Without the influence and blessing of The Hist, it is questionable whether the species would be able to continue to exist and propagate at all. This bone-deep connection to birthplace and ancestry means that many of us who hold the same connection to The Hist can't help but feel a certain reverence for the "dingy" little fish. The Histcarp's awe-inspiring ability to navigate and traverse many leagues across the realm to their place of birth is both well established in literature, and an incredible natural phenomenon that should not be disregarded in such a highly esteemed pulication as Shimmering Waters.Â
[quote] 4. "Behavior is likely similar to other freshwater fish." [end quote]
What tragically flippant disregard for one of Tamriel's most remarkable species! Histcarp demonstrate many unique and fascinating behaviors that can be found in no other fish species. In addition to their unique connection to The Hist as mentioned above, Histcarp have shown evidence of collective memory when grouped in schooling populations. There is some discussion of whether their behavior can be classified as eusociality, which exists in no other bony fish found in Tamriel. Histcarp courtship behavior is also remarkable and although it can only be observed in the waters of Argonia, the astonishingly complex collaborative nest-building demonstrated by mating pairs is one of the great wonders of our natural world. This information may be underrepresented in the libraries of High Rock, but a great number of research papers by Argonian scholars are readily available should Archmage Ernaretus choose to include such revisions in his next volume.Â
[quote] 5. "The Histcarp appears to be of minimal ecological importance to the waterways of the realm." [end quote]
I have much to say on this remark but as this document has already exceeded its intended length I will simply emphasize that no animal species, especially one so incredibly complex and widespread can be casually disregarded as lacking environmental "importance".Â
I hope that this discussion has helped to outline some of the key errors published in this passage from Shimmering Waters. The Histcarp, while not the species at the center of my personal research, is of great importance both to me personally as well as to many who share my place of birth. I respectfully ask that Archmage Ernaretus consider these points, and please include a more comprehensive analysis of this incredible species in his next volume. If the Archmage ever finds himself travelling through Skyrim, I would be delighted to meet for a friendly academic discussion at the College of Winterhold, where I can provide many of the documents referenced in order to better stock the libraries of High Rock. Alternatively, if a less formal meeting would be preferable, I can personally guarantee the Archmage an evening of free drinks and lively discussion at the Bee & Barb bar in Riften, which coincidentally is where I will be heading directly after submitting this document for publication.Â
Respectfully, Chases-Many-Fishes.
The first and last pages have a footer saying "Communications in Riverine Ecology, Frostfall 4,027, Request full access through your institution" with the last bit styled as a hyperlink.
Below the "Chases-Many-Fishes" signoff is a trio of fish in an upside down triangle akin to a signature.