{"id":3844,"date":"2003-11-12T18:03:21","date_gmt":"2003-11-12T23:03:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3844"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:07:37","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:07:37","slug":"worth-fighting-for","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3844","title":{"rendered":"Worth Fighting For (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>After falling out, Adam and Joe discover what is worth fighting for.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(6,865 words)<\/p>\n

Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Worth Fighting For<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cHaving a nice rest?\u201d enquired Adam Cartwright, in a deceptively mild tone.<\/p>\n

Looking up, Joe Cartwright glared at his oldest brother before gently placing his horse\u2019s hoof on the ground. \u201cCochise was limping,\u201d Joe replied, in a tight voice. \u201cDo you want me to lame him for good?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you found the problem?\u201d Adam asked, still in that mild tone.<\/p>\n

A flush spread over the younger man\u2019s face. His mouth tightened, and his eyes narrowed. With a visible effort, he kept his voice even. \u201cYes.\u201d The single word was all he offered.<\/p>\n

Turning his back on Adam, Joe took a drink from his canteen, then offered some to his pinto. He could feel Adam\u2019s eyes boring into his back. Replacing the canteen, he leapt neatly into the saddle without touching the stirrup. Still ignoring Adam, he walked the pinto a few paces, checking that the stone Cochise had caught in his hoof hadn\u2019t caused any long-term damage.<\/p>\n

Satisfied, Joe finally looked at his brother. Adam, to Joe\u2019s experienced eye, looked furious. They had been quarrelling for days now. Neither would apologise to the other. Ben, their father, had curtly ordered them to stop bickering, and so this frozen politeness had begun. Adam\u2019s deep brown gaze locked with Joe\u2019s green gaze, then Joe broke the contact and galloped off.<\/p>\n

Angry all over again, Adam rode after Joe. He knew they would have to make peace with one another, or one of them would have to leave. Adam was often restless, but he didn\u2019t want to go away. Joe loved the Ponderosa, and wouldn\u2019t want to leave either. Adam had been counting on Joe getting over his anger first, and making the first move, but it hadn\u2019t happened. Adam wasn\u2019t sure quite how to resolve things.<\/p>\n

Further down the valley, Joe had found a stray cow and her calf. Adam watched as he expertly herded the disgruntled cow over to the rest of the herd. Adam could hear his voice as he spoke to the hands, but couldn\u2019t catch the words.<\/p>\n

Reluctant to provoke Joe in front of the hands, Adam began combing the undergrowth for strays. Branding was a busy time for them and personal problems would have to wait.<\/p>\n

A whiff of rotting meat pulled Adam out of his reverie. He reined in Sport, who sidled away nervously. Adam stroked his neck absently. He reached for his rifle, and rode on at a walk.<\/p>\n

The remains of the calf had been there for several days. Adam dismounted, knowing by Sport\u2019s behaviour that the animal that had done this was nowhere near. There were cougar tracks all round the corpse. Sorting them out, Adam decided it must be a female with 2 adolescent cubs.<\/p>\n

Re-mounting, Adam cantered back to the fire where the branding continued apace. Both Joe and Hoss were there. \u201cI\u2019ve got to go back to the house,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll be back as soon as I can.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked, wiping his brow with the back of a huge, dirty hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just found the remains of a calf,\u201d he explained. \u201cTracks of 3 cats around it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh-oh,\u201d Joe commented.<\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnit,\u201d Hoss cursed. \u201cI thought we\u2019d chased off them critters.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, they\u2019re back. Pass the word around to the hands that no one is to go out alone. No point in taking chances.\u201d Adam patted Sport. \u201cI\u2019m off to tell Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave a nice rest,\u201d Joe said, caustically, walking away.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s face darkened, but he said nothing, merely sent Sport heading towards home. Hoss watched him for a moment, before shooting a glance at Joe and shaking his head. He had kept the peace between his brothers for years, but had failed this time. He didn\u2019t even know what had started the argument.<\/p>\n

After passing on the unwelcome news to the hands, Joe mounted up again, and rode out to resume his hunt for strays. It didn\u2019t occur to him that he was alone.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam returned a little over an hour later, the sun was beginning to dip in the sky. Hoss had finished for the day, and was having a well-deserved drink of water. The hands were scattered in a deceptively casual manner, watching the herd. \u201cHi, Adam,\u201d Hoss grunted.<\/p>\n

Sliding to the ground, Adam beckoned to Dave, who was currently in charge of the hands. Within moments, they were deep in discussions about keeping the herd as safe as possible.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Joe?\u201d Adam asked Hoss. They were about to mount and head for home.<\/p>\n

Looking around, Hoss frowned. \u201cI dunno,\u201d he admitted. \u201cI ain\u2019t seen him since you left, now I come to think on it. Hey, Dave!\u201d Hoss called. \u201cWhere\u2019s Joe? Who\u2019s out with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

The answer to that had crossed all their minds, but Dave still did a head count. \u201cHe must be alone,\u201d Dave admitted.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn him!\u201d Adam swore. \u201cDave, you stay here, just like we agreed. Hoss, you come with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

It only took Hoss a few moments to pick up Joe\u2019s trail. In silence, the brothers followed the tracks. They emerged from a small stand of trees to see Joe riding across the meadow beyond, towards them.<\/p>\n

The youngest brother wasn\u2019t looking at them, and obviously didn\u2019t know they were there. His head was down, and he was staring at the ground as he rode at a walk.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere he is,\u201d Hoss commented, relief in his voice.<\/p>\n

Drawing a deep breath to call to Joe, Adam was pre-empted by a growl. All three horses startled. The brothers all drew their handguns, trying to soothe their mounts, even while scanning the surrounding trees for the cougar.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere!\u201d exclaimed Hoss, and fired.<\/p>\n

The adolescent cat was about 10 feet from Joe. But Joe was too busy to shoot at it. Cochise was rearing, startled by the cat. The shot was just the last straw. Joe was trying to get Cochise to run, but the pinto was too panicked to respond to his rider.<\/p>\n

The cougar was startled by the shot, too. Forgetting about trying to catch the horse, the cat opted to leave, but instead of turning and running, it fled straight ahead, under the hooves of the rearing horse.<\/p>\n

That\u00a0was<\/em>\u00a0too much for Cochise. The pinto turned to flee, but was completely unbalanced, and his hooves slipped out from under him. Both horse and rider crashed to the ground. Joe was flung clear, and rolled over and over.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d exclaimed Hoss and Adam in unison. They crossed the distance to Joe in an instant. Cochise was on his feet, head down, panting and shaken.<\/p>\n

Sprawled on the ground, Joe was unconscious. Adam knelt by him, and gently touched his cheek. \u201cJoe? Can you hear me?\u201d There was no response. Adam continued to call Joe\u2019s name, while Hoss checked Cochise over. The pinto wasn\u2019t even lame.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe horse is okay,\u201d Hoss reported, coming to peer over Adam\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a pity we can\u2019t say the same for the rider,\u201d Adam noted.<\/p>\n

But with that, Joe began to stir back to life, and regained consciousness within a short time. Apart from a bump on the head, Joe was uninjured. After a few minutes rest to regain his equilibrium, Joe remounted and they set off for home.<\/p>\n

At first, Joe was obviously too dazed to take in much, but he began to look better after a while. \u201cWhat were you thinking of, Joe?\u201d Adam asked, suddenly. \u201cDid you think you were excluded from the order not to go alone?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow ain\u2019t the time, Adam,\u201d Hoss interjected, uneasily.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was only asking,\u201d Adam retorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, perhaps I didn\u2019t think,\u201d Joe said, angrily. \u201cBut I sure didn\u2019t notice you taking anyone with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe chances of meeting those cats were remote,\u201d Adam pointed out, just as angry. \u201cThe tracks were on the other side of the pasture.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, of course,\u201d Joe responded, cuttingly. \u201cSo they wouldn\u2019t have circled round.\u201d He snorted. \u201cIts always different for you, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, I thought that was your line,\u00a0Little<\/em>\u00a0Joe,\u201d Adam shot back. \u201cIt often seems different for the\u00a0baby<\/em>\u00a0of the family.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d Joe said, his voice rising. \u201cAnd we all know that, as the oldest son, you\u2019re perfect, Adam!\u201d Joe urged Cochise into a lope, but after only a few strides, the motion made him queasy, and he was forced to slow down. His already throbbing head pounded even harder, and for a moment, Joe thought he was going to be sick.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou all right, Shortshanks?\u201d Hoss asked, catching up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d Joe snapped, and instantly regretted his temper. He wasn\u2019t angry with Hoss. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou gotta sort out this thing with Adam,\u201d Hoss ventured. \u201cIt ain\u2019t good to live with.\u201d A closer look at Joe showed that his face had a greenish tinge underneath his tan. \u201cThink about it,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

By the time they got back to the house, Joe had lost the battle with his stomach a couple of times. He dismounted with obvious relief and led Cochise slowly into the barn.<\/p>\n

Working in silence, the brothers tended to their horses. Adam finished first, and left without a word. Hoss lingered, watching Joe. \u201cI\u2019m fine, Hoss, \u201cJoe said, without looking round.<\/p>\n

Caught, Hoss grinned apologetically, and left. Alone, Joe leant against Cochise\u2019s neck. He felt exhausted and knew it was as much from the renewed quarrel as from the fall. He didn\u2019t usually hold grudges, and hadn\u2019t realised the effort needed to do so. Thinking back, Joe was no longer sure what he and Adam had argued about in the first place. He knew he would have to make peace with Adam, but for some reason the words stuck in his throat.<\/p>\n

Sensing his rider\u2019s distress, Cochise nudged Joe with his head. Joe fondled the silken ears, then abruptly turned away. The movement was too abrupt, and Joe\u2019s head swam. He stumbled, fell against the stall partition, and slid to the floor.<\/p>\n

Dimly, he heard someone call his name, but the world was tilting alarmingly, and he couldn\u2019t respond. A strong arm was round his shoulders, supporting him. Joe concentrated on breathing, and gradually the world settled.<\/p>\n

Raising his head, Joe looked into Ben\u2019s concerned face. \u201cFeel better, son?\u201d he asked, gently. \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get you inside.\u201d He helped Joe to his feet and supported him across to the house.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before Joe was settled comfortably in bed, and Ben went down to join the others for supper. Adam\u2019s mouth was noticeably tight, but he didn\u2019t make any comment. Talk centred on planning the hunt for the cougars. They had lost a few calves already this season, and weren\u2019t anxious to lose more.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should take all the men we can spare off the branding. If branding is slowed down, well, so be it,\u201d Ben said. \u201cWe can always catch up later. But we must get those cats. Hoss, can you get messages sent to our neighbours, letting them know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Pa,\u201d Hoss mumbled, his mouth full.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you lead the search teams,\u201d Ben directed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what is Joe going to do?\u201d Adam asked, caustically.<\/p>\n

Frowning, Ben hooked Adam with a dark gaze. \u201cHe will help you on the search team,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cAnd I don\u2019t care for your tone, young man. I thought you and Joe had sorted this out.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a pause as Adam got his anger under control. \u201cI just wondered if Joe was going to be well enough to help,\u201d he said, as evenly as he could.<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t fool Ben. \u201cReally?\u201d his father asked, sarcastically. \u201cI had the impression that you meant something else. Joe does do his share round the ranch, Adam. You know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Adam replied. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

*********<\/p>\n

Next morning, Joe was at the breakfast table almost on time. Ben brought him up-to-date with the plans. Adam glanced at him. \u201cAre you well enough to join us?\u201d he asked, his tone quite matter of fact.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d Joe replied, which was his standard reply to any query about his health. \u201cTruly I am, Pa,\u201d he added, seeing the look his father gave him.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Ben responded. \u201cYou looked pretty green last night in the barn, I have to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u00a0felt<\/em>\u00a0pretty green,\u201d Joe responded, wryly, provoking a laugh round the table. \u201cBut I\u2019m okay now.\u201d He proved it by eating enough breakfast to satisfy his father.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before they were ready to leave. Joe and Adam had each packed enough supplies for a couple of days. The hands had been given their orders, and were already on the move. Adam had debated about pairing himself and Joe, but figured that they might have the chance to clear the air properly, if they were together.<\/p>\n

Bidding Ben and Hoss farewell, they rode out. There was silence between them, and neither spoke until they were arriving at the area where they would set up their camp. There was a cave there that the boys had camped in for many years. It was too shallow to be used by cougars, but was deep enough to shelter from all but the worst rain. One year, Hoss had built a rough corral, and the boys planned to leave the horses behind and hunt on foot.<\/p>\n

It was second nature for them to assume certain chores. Adam laid out the bedrolls while Joe turned out the horses. They both foraged for wood; enough for them to cook with, and to leave a couple of small fires burning near the corral. With that in mind, they collected a couple of large logs, which would burn slowly. By the time they had done all that, it was well into the afternoon.<\/p>\n

Eating a brief late lunch, Adam eyed Joe for a moment before saying, \u201cLet\u2019s go, shall we?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m ready when you are,\u201d Joe responded, coldly. He stood up and reached for his rifle, checking that he had extra shells. \u201cComing?\u201d<\/p>\n

Well, Adam reflected, you could hardly call it friendly, but at least they hadn\u2019t fallen out yet. He pointed out the direction he thought they should take, and waited for the explosion. It didn\u2019t come. Joe simply shrugged and walked that way.<\/p>\n

As the afternoon wore on, they fought their way through undergrowth and over rocks, but found no trace of the cats.\u00a0 Dusk found both Cartwrights back at the camp, where again they assumed chores from habit. Adam began the evening meal, while Joe watered and fed the horses. The silence as they ate was almost deafening. Several times, Adam cleared his throat, but each time Joe gave him a blistering look, and he kept quiet. After banking the fires for the night, Joe wrapped himself in his bedroll and went straight to sleep.<\/p>\n

Lying looking at the stars, Adam couldn\u2019t drop off. He knew that tomorrow, he would have to talk to Joe, and sort this out. He wracked his brain to remember which particular thing had sparked the quarrel. Joe had been tossing hay down from the loft, and had nearly flattened Adam with one bale. Being Joe, he laughed. Adam had had a bad day, and had lost his temper, yelling about Joe\u2019s careless attitude to work. Things had escalated from there, as Joe had yelled back, and then the first punch had been thrown \u2013 by Joe, of course. Adam had hit back, and Hoss had stepped in to stop them. By then, the damage was done.<\/p>\n

It occurred to Adam that he was in the wrong. Joe\u00a0hadn\u2019t<\/em>\u00a0been careless throwing down the bale. He\u2019d done what they had all been taught \u2013 shouted a warning, and then heaved. Adam had been so caught up in his own thoughts, he hadn\u2019t heard Joe. He had been offended when Joe laughed, but he remembered now that Joe had checked first that he wasn\u2019t hurt.<\/p>\n

There was no doubt, he owed Joe an apology. Adam had little practice humbling his pride, especially to Joe, but he knew it had to be done. Sighing, he rolled over and sleep gradually overwhelmed him. It was the best sleep he\u2019d had in days, for his conscience was finally at rest.<\/p>\n

***********<\/p>\n

Sometime after midnight, Adam was dragged out of slumber by a horse neighing. Joe was stirring, too, reaching for his gun, and shoving aside the covers. \u201cCochise!\u201d he exclaimed, although Adam couldn\u2019t imagine how he knew which horse it was.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, wait!\u201d he said, but Joe, impetuous as ever, took no heed and raced off into the darkness.<\/p>\n

Slipping on his boots, Adam realised that Joe hadn\u2019t even taken time to put his boots on! He snatched up his rifle, and followed Joe.<\/p>\n

By the faint light of the fire, he saw Joe by the corral. The horses were milling about uneasily, but there was no immediate sign of any cougar. \u201cJoe,\u201d Adam hissed. \u201cCan you see anything?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe responded. Then his head went up, and he lifted his rifle, sighting along the barrel. Adam peered in the direction Joe was aiming, and saw a faint shadow moving along the tree line.<\/p>\n

Without hesitating, Joe fired. The rifle report sounded sharply, and the shadow jerked, yowled, and fled. Joe fired again, but they both knew it was hopeless. \u201cMissed,\u201d Joe said, with disgust. \u201cI winged it though. We can track it by the blood in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou took a chance,\u201d said Adam, soberly. \u201cThey might have all been out here.\u201d<\/p>\n

If Joe had been feeling more receptive to Adam, he would have noticed the note of genuine concern in his brother\u2019s voice. As it was, all he heard was the criticism. \u201cAs if you care,\u201d he said, bitterly.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I care,\u201d Adam protested. \u201cBut you didn\u2019t think! You haven\u2019t even put your boots on!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, don\u2019t worry, Adam. I won\u2019t complain about sore feet, believe me!\u201d With that, Joe stalked back to the cave, and was feigning sleep by the time Adam came in a few moments later.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Breakfast was eaten in silence. Adam knew he would have to make the first move, but it was hard for him. Joe was soon ready to go, and so Adam put off saying anything. They scouted round, and soon picked up the trail of blood. It was clear and easy to follow, but after a while it became obvious that the cat wasn\u2019t as badly hurt as they\u2019d hoped.<\/p>\n

Noon came and went, and still they seemed no nearer finding the elusive cougars. Stopping for some water, the brothers stood beneath the shade of a tree. The heat was intense, and they had been climbing steadily for the last few hours. The tension between them had lessened. \u201cIsn\u2019t there a cave just up there?\u201d Joe asked, pointing.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so,\u201d Adam responded, wiping his brow.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s take a look,\u201d Joe suggested. \u201cWe\u2019ve lost the trail now, anyway. You go round that side, and I\u2019ll go up here.\u201d As he caught Adam\u2019s look, he rolled his eyes. \u201cDamn it, Adam, I know there\u2019s safety in numbers, but its not as if I\u2019m suggesting that we go alone! Give me credit for some sense!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, but be careful,\u201d Adam said. He had been about to suggest the same course of action.<\/p>\n

Joe muttered something under his breath that Adam didn\u2019t catch, but he didn\u2019t ask for it to be repeated. He set off to climb up to the cave, slightly to the left of Joe\u2019s position.<\/p>\n

It was a hot, hard climb. They moved slowly and carefully, placing each foot before putting their full weight on it, so as not to start any rock falls. Finally, Joe reached a place where he could see the cave clearly. There had been a landslip since Joe had last been up there, and there was a sort of wall of rocks and debris. Joe eased himself behind it, and looked around. Further along the same wall, he saw Adam.<\/p>\n

Movement. Joe shifted position and watched as the cougar and her cubs came out of the cave to sun themselves on the rocks. One of the cubs had a bloody streak running along one side, but the injury clearly wasn\u2019t giving him much trouble. Joe smiled. Between them, he and Adam could pick off the animals without any problem. He raised his rifle, and took aim.<\/p>\n

The wind shifted suddenly, and blew Joe\u2019s hot scent towards the cougars. The mother lifted her head, lips drawn back in a growl. Joe knew he had no time to waste. He fired, hitting the already injured cub, and killing it cleanly. From his left, Adam fired, too, but the cats were already on the move.<\/p>\n

Protecting her cubs, the mother cougar bounded towards Joe. The other cub, confused, fled towards Adam. Joe desperately fired again, but missed completely. He tried to slide down behind the rocks and debris, but the cat was too quick for him. She hit him square in the chest, and Joe felt the claws rake into him as he fought to get clear.<\/p>\n

The cat had over shot the mark, and hadn\u2019t got her claws properly into Joe. She skidded on the loose footing, and let go. Joe had dropped his rifle, and instinctively drew his handgun and fired from point blank range, again and again. Only when his gun was empty did he realise that the cat was dead.<\/p>\n

For several moments, Joe was frozen in place, sick and shaken. Then the pain from the claws hit him, and he groaned. Glancing down, he saw that his chest and arms were covered in deep scratches, which were bleeding quite freely. Joe felt sick.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d Joe called, and his voice echoed back from the hills around. \u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence. Terror gripped Joe. Gathering his strength, he crawled to his feet, and looked around. There was no sign of Adam. Joe picked up his rifle, checked there was a shell in it, and began to edge his way carefully round to Adam\u2019s position.<\/p>\n

The dangerous footing and Joe\u2019s own weakness made the journey seem endless to him. When he finally saw Adam, his heart almost stopped. Adam had nailed the other cub \u2013 it lay dead beside him. But he had paid a price. His leg was slashed open to the bone, and pumped blood slowly but steadily onto the dusty earth, where it was quickly absorbed by the dry ground.<\/p>\n

Throwing himself down beside his unconscious brother, Joe feared he was dead for a moment. He searched frantically for a pulse, and found it, but it was weak and thready. Joe knew he had to stop the bleeding. Ripping what was left of his shirt from his back, he tore off a sleeve, and made a tourniquet, watching with relief when the bleeding slowed, and finally came to a stop.<\/p>\n

Many years ago, Joe had watched Doc Martin working with a tourniquet, and had asked several interested questions. Amused, Paul had given Joe a lesson he had never forgotten. Blessing Paul in absentia, Joe worked the tourniquet, and gradually loosened it, until the bleeding had stopped even without the pressure. Then he wrapped Adam\u2019s leg in his shirt as tightly as he could. He left the tourniquet in place, just in case he needed it again.<\/p>\n

Checking Adam\u2019s pulse again, Joe was relieved to find it a bit stronger. He found Adam\u2019s canteen \u2013 his was long gone \u2013 and had a small drink before lifting Adam\u2019s head and pouring some water into his brother\u2019s mouth. After a little while, Adam groaned. \u201cAdam? Can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was no response. Joe slumped back on his heels, closing his eyes despairingly. Adam was unconscious, and looked like staying that way for a while. He needed a doctor as soon as possible, and that meant that Joe had to get him down off this hill, and home, somehow.<\/p>\n

He had no choice. Joe stood up, and somehow manoeuvred Adam to his feet, then slung his brother over his shoulder. It was going to a long hard journey back, but Joe vowed he had to make it. Using the rifles to steady himself, Joe began to edge his way carefully down the hill.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

The first part of the descent was the worst. Joe eventually set Adam down, and, holding brother and rifles across his lap, slid down as carefully as he could on his backside, not counting the cost in ragged pants and torn flesh. Once back on the trail, Joe rested, exhausted already. He checked Adam\u2019s leg again, and noted the growing warmth in his body. Resolutely, Joe forced himself to his feet and staggered on.<\/p>\n

A kind of rhythm developed, with Joe going as far as he could before setting Adam down, so he could rest. The task of carrying Adam drained Joe, and he had to rest for longer each time. The sun sank with amazing rapidity, and Joe began to fear they would be forced to spend the night in the open. Goaded by the thought, Joe forced himself to his feet, and marched on. He soon was in a kind of reverie, moving his feet, but barely aware of what he was doing. The claw marks on his chest and arms burned painfully, and he was relieved that Adam was spared the pain of his injuries, plus the uncomfortable bumping on Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

Dusk had fallen, and the first stars were becoming visible against the pale blue velvet sky when Joe finally reached the cave. He was at the end of his endurance, and could barely control his muscles. He laid Adam down with the last of his strength, and slumped to the ground.<\/p>\n

It was full dark when Joe woke up. He still felt desperately tired, and his muscles were stiff from the unaccustomed exercise. He wondered what had roused him, then heard Adam\u2019s voice. \u201cJoe? Joe? Where are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d Joe croaked, groaning as he sat up. He slithered over the ground, and touched Adam\u2019s arm. \u201cI\u2019m here, Adam. Don\u2019t move.\u201d With one hand, Joe threw some more wood on the fire, and it flared up brightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Adam gasped. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cJust rest, Adam. We\u2019ll go home in the morning. Try and sleep. Would you like a drink?\u201d<\/p>\n

He helped Adam to drink, and realised that the canteen was empty. Adam was burning up, and Joe knew he needed water. After settling his older brother into an uneasy sleep, Joe got stiffly to his feet, and tottered to the stream. He drank his fill, and then filled up the canteen. He wished he hadn\u2019t lost his one. With a sigh, he headed back to camp.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Dawn broke cool and cloudy. Joe, looking tiredly at the signs, saw rain coming. He had been awake a lot of the night with Adam, who was running a fever. Joe didn\u2019t feel so great himself, but he had to look after Adam. While his brother slept, Joe made himself eat, then began to make a travois. It was something he had done often, but today he could hardly manage the knots that were necessary. It took some time before he realised that it was due to the injuries he\u2019d received the previous day.<\/p>\n

Finally, it was done, but the morning was wasting away, and the clouds were getting darker by the minute. Joe packed the last of their gear, and moved Adam onto the travois. His brother stirred as Joe gratefully let his weight down. \u201cJoe?\u201d he whispered. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tiredly, Joe pushed his hair away from his sweaty face. \u201cSorry for what?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cQuarrel,\u201d Adam breathed. \u201cMy fault. Sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

All at once, Joe wanted to cry. \u201cNo, Adam, it doesn\u2019t matter. I\u2019m sorry, too, for not letting it go. I was a baby.\u201d<\/p>\n

The deep brown eyes, glazed with fever, opened a little wider. For the first time since being mauled, Adam looked at Joe. Joe had been unable to bear the weight of a shirt and so hadn\u2019t put one on. The scratches stood out in vivid red lines. Adam gasped.\u00a0 \u201cJoe, you\u2019re hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIts nothing,\u201d Joe lied. \u201cJust rest, big brother. I\u2019m gonna get you home.\u201d<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

The clouds overhead darkened, and the wind picked up. Joe shivered, and pulled his shirt from the back of the saddle where he\u2019d bundled it. Trusting to Cochise to continue going, he slid it on, and winced as the light fabric rubbed the festering scratches. The rain had held off, but Joe was sure that situation was about to change. He wondered if he should try and find some shelter, or if he should carry on towards home. Adam was burning with fever, and Joe was little better, but he didn\u2019t dare admit, even to himself, how ill he really was. Joe couldn\u2019t decide what to do, so did nothing, and they carried on plodding towards home, one step at a time.<\/p>\n

The first drops of rain fell, and Joe thought that perhaps it wouldn\u2019t be a bad storm. But he was wrong. Within minutes, thunder was crashing in the hills behind them, and lightning flashed intermittently. Joe ducked his head, and simply endured the rain. He heard Adam call out, but didn\u2019t stop. Deep down, Joe knew that if he got down from his horse, he might not get back on again.<\/p>\n

Finally, the weather relented, and the rain stopped. The wind still blew in fitful gusts, and Joe shivered. He was soaked to the skin. He had put the oilskins on Adam before they had left. \u201cWalk on, Coochie,\u201d Joe muttered, every now and then. He looked at his surroundings with very little idea of where they actually were. Some instinct kept him headed in the right direction.<\/p>\n

Waking from a momentary doze, Joe noticed the sky getting darker again. Forcing his eyes to focus, he realised that night was falling. Had they been travelling all day? He tried to remember, but could only dredge up snatches of the journey. Cochise seemed to be walking more quickly, and his ears were pricked. Even through his stupor, Joe recognised the signs that they were nearing home. Joe swayed in the saddle, and shook his head, trying to clear it. It didn\u2019t help.<\/p>\n

Suddenly, the ranch house was in front of them, and the tired horses were stopping in the yard. Joe simply sat in the saddle. He couldn\u2019t move. He didn\u2019t even know if Adam was still alive, but he hadn\u2019t enough energy to check.<\/p>\n

The door to the house opened, and Ben came out. He hesitated as he saw the travois, and then ran towards Joe, shouting for Hoss to come. Joe watched, with the same curious disinterest he had felt all day. Ben paused by Joe, and looked anxiously into his face. \u201cJoe! What happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

Unable to find his voice, Joe simply looked at his father. He managed a glance over his shoulder, and Ben hurried back to look at the man on the travois. \u201cOh my God! Adam!\u201d The horror in his father\u2019s tone convinced Joe that Adam had died. A feeling of defeat crushed him, and he slid, unconscious, from the saddle.<\/p>\n

*********<\/p>\n

For a paralysing moment, Ben didn\u2019t know what to do. Then his brain cleared, and he sent someone to town for the doctor, urgently. Other hands were enlisted to help carry the injured brothers into the house. Hop Sing started water boiling, and Ben and Hoss gently undressed Adam and Joe.<\/p>\n

It was difficult to say who was worst off. Adam\u2019s leg looked dreadful, and he burned with fever, but he was at least dry. Joe\u2019s chest and arms were red and sore looking, showing signs of infection. He, too, burned with fever, and had been soaked to the skin. Ben had realised at once that it was hopeless trying to tend to his sons in different rooms, so had the hands bring Joe\u2019s bed into Adam\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

Bathing Adam\u2019s head with cool water, Ben suddenly realised that Adam was awake and looking at him. He quickly gave his son a drink of water, which Adam sipped gratefully. \u201cPa,\u201d he whispered. \u201cJoe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right here, son,\u201d Ben replied, tears in his eyes. \u201cHe brought you home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d breathed Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you sorry for, son?\u201d questioned Ben, puzzled.<\/p>\n

The ghost of a smile chased across Adam\u2019s face. \u201cLots of things,\u201d he muttered. \u201cEverything. The fight. Joe.\u201d He sighed. \u201cEverything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about it, son,\u201d Ben advised. \u201cJust rest and get better.\u201d He smiled at Adam, and soon his oldest son drifted back to sleep.<\/p>\n

Crossing to look at Joe, Ben saw that he hadn\u2019t regained consciousness. There were circles under Joe\u2019s eyes. He was flushed with fever. Hoss was gently cleaning the gashes on his torso. Ben touched the sweat-dampened curls, and then rested his hand on Hoss\u2019 broad shoulder. Hoss raised worried blue eyes. \u201cAre they gonna be all right, Pa?\u201d he asked, in a low voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so, son,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cI hope so.\u201d<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

The house was soon bustling with activity as Paul Martin arrived. Hop Sing dashed up and down stairs, fetching and carrying, helping Paul to treat both sons. Ben and Hoss were banished to the sitting room. Ben slumped in his favourite chair, and Hoss perched on the edge of the massive stone fireplace.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like the cats got them,\u201d Hoss muttered. \u201cBut did they git the cats?\u201d<\/p>\n

They both leapt to their feet as Paul came down the stairs. \u201cWell?\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

\u201cSit down, Ben,\u201d Paul said, and Ben did so, his heart in his mouth. \u201cThe are both quite ill, as I\u2019m sure you are aware. Injuries from cat\u2019s claws are notorious for carrying infection. From what I could piece together from Joe, this happened yesterday afternoon. Joe was too ill to think of washing their injuries. But I have to say, Ben, I admire that boy of yours. Not many men could have survived an attack by a cougar, and then saved his brother\u2019s life, too! He deserves a medal! I\u2019ve stitched up Adam\u2019s leg, and he should be fine, once we break his fever. None of Joe\u2019s injuries needed stitches. I\u2019ve bound them up, and I think, like Adam he should be fine. Keep them cool, and give them plenty of clear fluids. I\u2019ll look back in the morning. But if you need me, don\u2019t hesitate to send for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Paul,\u201d Ben said. He shook the doctor\u2019s hand as he left, then went upstairs to nurse his sons.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

The next few days proved long and tiring, as Ben and Hoss nursed Adam and Joe, and tried to keep the ranch running smoothly, too. Paul was a regular visitor to the ranch, helping Ben to fight the infections, which raged through each of his sons\u2019 bodies. Hop Sing was invaluable, and not just for the endless supply of food and drink with which he plied his family. His salves aided the healing process.<\/p>\n

After two days, Joe was moved back to his own room. His fever had broken, and he was beginning to be awake for longer periods. Adam fought on for another day before he, too beat the infection.\u00a0 That night, everyone in the house slept soundly.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

It was a rather pensive Joe that Ben found that morning. He greeted his father with less than his usual enthusiasm. Adam was still asleep, so Ben decided to give Joe his breakfast first, and let Adam sleep on. Helping to Joe to sit up, for he was still weak and sore, Ben wondered what was wrong. \u201cDo you feel all right, Joe?\u201d he asked, placing the tray on his son\u2019s lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cJust a bit tired, I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t imagine why,\u201d Ben teased, gently. The previous day, Joe had told them the story of the cougar hunt. Ben, like Paul, had been impressed by Joe\u2019s courage and determination.<\/p>\n

A fleeting smile crossed Joe\u2019s lips and was gone. He picked listlessly at his food, chewing with obvious disinterest. Ben watched, all too familiar with his son\u2019s moods. When Joe had finally finished eating, Ben removed the tray and said, casually, \u201cWhat\u2019s on your mind, Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

The nickname made Joe smile slightly. \u201cMe and Adam,\u201d Joe replied.<\/p>\n

Stifling an urge to correct Joe\u2019s grammar, Ben simply nodded. You couldn\u2019t push Joe into confidences. He had to volunteer them himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was thinking about us,\u201d continued Joe. \u201cWe get on real well for a while, then we don\u2019t get on at all. I was trying to figure out why.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Ben ventured. \u201cHave<\/em>\u00a0you figured out why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Joe admitted. \u201cNot really. I mean, I could say its because Adam is bossy. But he\u2019s always been like that. I could say its because he went away to college, and left me behind. But it isn\u2019t that any more. I could say he doesn\u2019t like me, but I know that\u2019s not true. I just don\u2019t understand.\u201d He sighed, frowning.<\/p>\n

Recognising the cue for fatherly wisdom, Ben sighed. \u201cI can\u2019t say I understand either, Joe,\u201d he admitted. \u201cI just know that sometimes, no matter how much you love someone, they can annoy you. You and Adam are such opposites, that it\u2019s difficult for you to agree on many things. You act first and think after. Adam does the opposite. No wonder it brings you into conflict. I hate it when you argue. But, Joe, there is one thing more important than your arguing. Do you know what that is?\u201d<\/p>\n

Frowning, Joe shook his head. \u201cNo. What?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, both of you, what\u2019s worth fighting\u00a0for<\/em>.\u201d Ben patted Joe\u2019s hand. \u201cYou think about it, and I\u2019ll be back later.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lying back on his pillows, Joe puzzled over his father\u2019s meaning. He was still wrestling with it when Ben looked in later to say that Adam was awake. A few minutes after that, Joe was easing himself from under the covers, and walking unsteadily across the hall to Adam\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

It was the first time they had seen each other in a couple of days. \u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d Adam asked. \u201cShouldn\u2019t you be in bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you start,\u201d Joe sighed, for he had been trying to get out of bed for days. \u201cI didn\u2019t come here to fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Adam said, but Joe caught the glimpse of laughter in the brown eyes. \u201cIts not worth it. Here, sit beside me and share the blanket. I\u2019ll never hear the end of it if you catch cold!\u201d<\/p>\n

Doing as he was told, Adam\u2019s words struck Joe. \u201cWorth fighting for,\u201d he said. \u201cSo that\u2019s what Pa meant.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa said that he hates it when we fight. He doesn\u2019t understand why we do it. But he says we always know what\u2019s worth fighting\u00a0for<\/em>. Its not worth our fighting over this. It won\u2019t change what I\u2019ve done. Maybe I understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think that is quite what Pa meant,\u201d Adam commented. \u201cJoe, I haven\u2019t had the chance to thank you for saving my life. I would have died without you there. You carried me down from the hills, and got me home, despite what had happened to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I couldn\u2019t leave you,\u201d Joe protested, taken aback by the seeming change of subject.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou fought to save me,\u201d Adam pointed out. \u201cYou fought your own injuries and weakness to save us both. I think that\u2019s what Pa meant. Despite all our fighting, I love you, Joe. I can\u2019t say it, or show it too often, but its true. When you need help, I\u2019ll be there for you, if I can. And I can\u2019t tell you how proud I am that you were there for me the other day.\u201d Embarrassed, for he didn\u2019t share his deepest thoughts easily, Adam looked away, blinking back tears.<\/p>\n

His face burning from the unaccustomed praise, Joe didn\u2019t try to hide his tears. \u201cGosh, Adam, I\u2019ve always loved you. Is that what Pa meant? That we\u2019ll always fight for each other?\u201d His eyes widened as Adam nodded, and he absorbed the meaning. \u201cSure, I guess I understand. We\u2019ve always fought for each other, so the bickering doesn\u2019t really matter, if it doesn\u2019t get out of hand. I\u2019m sorry about that last fight, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHush, Joe, forget it. I was in the wrong, not you. Its over.\u201d The brothers sat in silence for a while, Joe leaning on Adam\u2019s shoulder.\u00a0 He yawned. A moment later, Adam copied him. They laughed. \u201cFancy a nap?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

When Ben looked in an hour later, he found Adam and Joe sleeping peacefully in the same bed. He smiled, and beckoned to Hoss to see. \u201cI\u2019m so glad you boys know what\u2019s worth fighting for,\u201d he whispered, and gently closed the door, leaving his two sons to sleep.<\/p>\n

*****END****<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 After falling out, Adam and Joe discover what is worth fighting for.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0 \u00a0(6,865 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":12352,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23,41],"tags":[14,16],"class_list":["post-3844","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2431,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/AdamJoeHP7.jpg?fit=399%2C299&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":6768,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6768","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":0},"title":"A Deadly Day (by rosecartwright)","author":"rosecartwright","date":"November 4, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe is home sick, but things go downhill for this young Cartwright. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (635 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/2-joe.jpg?fit=237%2C221&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":5347,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5347","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":1},"title":"A Quartet of Limericks (by Puchi Ann)","author":"Puchi Ann","date":"May 1, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Ben Cartwright reflects on his three sons in this quartet of limerick verses. Rated: K \u00a0(134 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Poetry"","block_context":{"text":"Poetry","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=9"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":7668,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7668","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":2},"title":"Stampede (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0A cattle drive, a stampede, and one guilty Cartwright make for a simple little tale. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0 1211","rel":"","context":"In "Action\/Adventure"","block_context":{"text":"Action\/Adventure","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=2"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/cattle-drive.jpg?fit=357%2C267&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":2162,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2162","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":3},"title":"Shelter (by pony)","author":"pony","date":"December 8, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0\u00a0Adam and Joe Cartwright are lost in a blizzard. Their only hope ... shelter. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K (1,390 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza31.jpg?fit=573%2C389&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7623,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7623","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":4},"title":"Seeing An Angel (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0A girl from Marie\u2019s past has something for Little Joe. Rated:\u00a0T\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0 1351","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/guardian-angel.jpg?fit=250%2C233&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6742,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6742","url_meta":{"origin":3844,"position":5},"title":"Grazed (by Jayne)","author":"Jayne","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0When Adam finds a slightly injured Joe, they share a strangely special moment. \u00a0A Young Cartwright short story. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ \u00a0WC \u00a0767","rel":"","context":"In "Adam \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Adam \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1091"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3844","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3844"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3844\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/12352"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3844"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3844"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3844"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}