What if Genghis Khan died, just before he really got going? Thanks to a blacksmith's son called Jelme, we don't have to wonder. We might, however, wonder why Jelme's heroic rescue required so much blood and so little clothing—but thanks to a blacksmith's podcast called Something True, we don't have to wonder. Read a full transcript of this episode on the Something True website. Follow Something True on Twitter @atruepodcast. (Or just follow Duncan and Alex.) Music on this week’s episode: Jahzzar – The Last Ones* Gablé – Gloria* Gablé – Douch OK* Lee Maddeford – Tom's Lullaby (with Les Gauchers Orchestra)* David Szesztay – Bizarre Waltz* *modified for the podcast.
Before the warlord, Temujin was called Chinggis Khan, he very nearly lost his life in a battle against a powerful foe at the Onon river in Mongolia.
The future Khan had joined his forces against a rival clan.
But though Temujin fared well in the fight, he caught an arrow in the neck, which in the 13th century was often fatal.
Temujin was carried back to camp, where he passed out while the sun went down.
Hours later, he sputtered back into consciousness.
Drink, he said weakly.
I must have something to drink.
Crouched at Temujins side was Zelmi, his second in command and one of his closest advisors.
A drink.
Summon a drink.
No problem.
Cried Zelme, overjoyed to see his khan alive.
Just leave it to me.
Zellmir rose to his feet and took off his clothes.
Leave it all to me.
Youre listening to something.
True stories from the footnotes of history written by Duncan Fife and read by Alex Corbett Ashby this weeks episode Bartar Zellmer was a blacksmiths son.
When Zellmer was just a baby, his father presented him to Temujin and implored him to take the infant.
Did he mean it?
Like take my baby boy as tribute, mighty Khan?