The Death of Semser

(Source: Kelgembaeva Baykytzhan. People and land: textbook. – Oskemen: Media Alliance, 2005. – 168 p.)

One of the peaks of Tarbagatai was once chosen by a golden eagle named Semser (In the Kazakh language it means “sword”). He received his name for his exceptional speed: he easily and without hesitation dealt with wolves and foxes. People in the area relied on him so much that they almost stopped guarding their cattle – it was safe with Semser.

One day, a wolf killed a racehorse that a local wealthy man was preparing for a race. Overwhelmed with rage and not realizing that a predator was to blame, the owner raised his gun at the golden eagle soaring in the sky – and fired. The wounded bird tried to pounce on the shooter, but the bullet hit a vital spot – his strength left him, and he fell onto a rock, crashing to his death.

The dead bird turned out to be Semser’s companion – his faithful mate. For several days, Semser circled over that place, screaming anxiously. They say that the tears that fell from his eyes turned into black currants and crimson hawthorn. In the end, Semser himself hit the same rock where his companion died. Since then, that rock has been called Semser – in memory of two mighty birds that divided not only the sky, but also the last rock.