The Return Journey

This thread follows Jefferson Kyle Kidd’s reluctant commission to return Cicada to her relatives, and the journey that transforms the task into a lasting bond.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Captive in the Wagon

A Captive in the Wagon The unexpected commission Britt Johnson asks Jefferson Kyle Kidd to take a Kiowa-raised child south to her German relatives. The request interrupts Kidd’s familiar work as a traveling news reader. An obligation accepted Kidd sees the child’s fear and understands the danger of leaving her without protection. He accepts the gold and the responsibility, beginning a journey neither traveler can yet imagine.

Across the Red

Across the Red A hazardous crossing With floodwater rising, Kidd takes the wagon across the upper Little Wichita and pushes toward the Red River. The crossings make clear that the route itself may be as dangerous as any pursuer. A fragile traveling party Cicada walks barefoot and watches the unfamiliar landscape. Kidd explains his weapons through gestures, trying to establish safety without a shared language.

The Army Patrol

The Army Patrol A frightened child A patrol of the United States Army approaches, and Cicada hides with Kidd’s revolver within reach. She fears that the soldiers will take her back into official custody. Kidd holds his ground Kidd presents the Agent’s papers but refuses to let the officer’s inspection become a forced separation. When the patrol leaves, Cicada recognizes that Kidd has chosen her safety over easy compliance.

The Pursuit Begins

The Pursuit Begins A predatory offer Almay approaches Kidd after a public reading and offers to buy the girl. His language reveals that Cicada is being targeted for exploitation, not rescue. Flight instead of negotiation Kidd pretends to consider a price, then leaves Dallas under cover of night with Cicada. Their passage shifts from difficult escort to flight from armed pursuers.

Arrival at the Farm

Arrival at the Farm The promised destination Kidd brings Cicada to the Leonberger relatives’ farm after weeks on the road. She recognizes a few German words but does not experience the reunion as a return to a familiar home. The journey’s real test The relatives treat her as an obligation to manage rather than a child needing patient care. The arrival exposes the limits of Kidd’s original promise: delivery alone cannot guarantee safety or belonging.

Winter 1870, Wichita Falls

Late February 1870, east of Wichita Falls

Early March 1870, on the road to Spanish Fort

Early March 1870, after the Dallas reading

Early April 1870, D’Hanis