Mason Beck Fiction

Well, I just found out that The Outer Worlds 2 drops on the 29th, which means I need to pick up the pace on finishing this story. I’ll probably vanish into space for a couple of days once it launches.

For this next part, I wanted to lean into a flashback, but not just a simple memory or retelling. Instead, I decided to explore it through a series of letters exchanged between Eliza and the authorities at the settlement. It felt like a more grounded, immersive way to reveal what happened without pulling us out of the atmosphere.

I had a lot of fun writing this section, and I hope you enjoy reading it just as much.

Part 1

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Two months prior
To the Honored Magistrate of Christanna

Most Honored Sir,

I beg you with trembling hand to receive my plea. My husband and son departed six weeks past to stake our claim beyond the river Nottoway, and neither has returned. We are but some months upon these shores, having spent the whole of our savings on the passage. My family is all that remains to me, and I fear neither heart nor soul could endure their loss.

They had spoken of land west of Christanna, beyond the river Nottoway, where the hills rise and the forests deepen, beyond the reach of road or parish. 

With all that remains in me, I entreat you in the name of our Lord to send what aid you may in finding them. I have enclosed their likenesses in hope it might ease your search.

Yours in Christ,
Eliza Mayfield

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Six weeks prior
To Mistress Eliza Mayfield

Madam,

Your letter has reached me, and I have received it with the gravity such a petition warrants. I extend to you my deepest sympathy for your circumstance, and though our resources are strained thin upon this frontier, I have made what inquiries I may.

It grieves me to say the tidings are not cheerful.

Your husband and son did pass this way, as confirmed by several of our townsfolk who recall them taking on supplies, and by one of my men who was recently dispatched to trade with friendly tribes in the region. The family was seen traveling westward as he and his party came east. They did not speak, nor did they remain long enough for words to be exchanged. It was observed that they were headed into the deep forest, toward lands not under guard nor patrolled by His Majesty’s forces.

By custom and conscience, I believe it right that you seek what answers may yet be found. Enclosed you shall find a writ granting your safe passage to Christanna, along with fair enough coin for the journey. Upon your arrival, I shall see to it that you are escorted as needed, should you still wish to go forward.

In His service,
Magistrate John Altham
Christanna, this 17th day of May, Anno Domini 1681

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Part 3 and Part 4 are up!