Ep 9. The Beholden

Cheyenne season 5 episode 9, titled "The Beholden", follows the story of Cheyenne Bodie, a former soldier turned cowboy, who lands in the middle of a dangerous situation involving a group of farmers and a wealthy landowner.

The episode opens with Cheyenne stopping by a small town where he hears about the struggles of a group of farmers who are being threatened and forced off their land by the local landowner, Asa Belden. Cheyenne decides to intervene and offer his help to the farmers, who are skeptical of his motives at first. However, after some persuasion, they agree to let him help.

Cheyenne then meets with Belden, who is a wealthy and powerful man with a private army of hired guns. Cheyenne tries to reason with Belden but it becomes clear that he won't back down. Cheyenne decides to leave but not before Belden tells him that he owes him a favor after he saved his life years before.

Back at the farmer's ranch, Cheyenne helps fortify their property and teach them some basic defense tactics to prepare for Belden's next attack. The farmers slowly begin to trust Cheyenne and appreciate his help.

Meanwhile, Belden sends his men to attack the farmer's ranch, hoping to drive them off their land. Cheyenne and the farmers put up a fierce defense and succeed in repelling the attackers. However, it becomes clear that it was only a small-scale attack and that Belden will be back with a bigger force.

During a meeting with the farmers, Cheyenne reveals that he owes Belden a favor and that he plans to use it to his advantage. He decides to find out what Belden needs and try to use it as leverage to make him leave the farmers alone. Cheyenne sets out on his mission and eventually discovers what Belden needs. He seizes the opportunity and makes a deal with Belden, which leads to a final confrontation between the two men.

Overall, Cheyenne season 5 episode 9 is a thrilling and action-packed episode that showcases the character's courage, determination, and resourcefulness. It also explores themes of power, greed, and loyalty, as well as the struggle of common people against those with more wealth and influence. The episode is well-written, with strong performances from the cast and great direction, making it a standout episode in the series.