Call of Tala

The Call of Tala is a celebration where Taladin families will come together to praise their family. Specifically, they will sit around the oldest living Matriarch of the family. The Matriarch will then bestow gifts and food to each family member. This tradition was established during the time of Aerenn, when Zagros was promised to be born. However, the tradition is also found within Isfa and Mashangist claiming slight variations. Some variations include the practice of asking the Matriarch for forgiveness for being so far away; the practice of singing traditional songs to friends and neighbors; or a romantic holiday that celebrates the affection of Tala that brought about the Ashun (Tala being the first Matriarch).
The Call of Tala begins at the first signs of an eclipse. When the shadow of Adalbar stretches over the horizon, families will gather together in their homes for the celebration. While eclipses are times of dread for many, it is also a time to remember the blessings that the people have received. Thus, family members will work together to quickly prepare the food. From the first shadow of the eclipse on the horizon, families have approximately five hours to prepare before the shadow of the eclipse falls over them. The celebration will last until the final shadow of the eclipse passes from over the home, which is a further 4 hours.
For the traditional celebration, when the eclipse touches the house, the Matriarch will be set upon a "throne", typically a nice chair in the home (or something else that the Matriarch requests). Starting with the youngest family members, members of the family will approach on their knees and praise the Matriarch. The Matriarch will grab pieces of food or presents and give them to the supplicant. This will continue for each of the family members. It is tradition that the Matriarch will call the supplicant by name and tell them about themselves. But it is custom that the Matriarch never decline to offer food to those who approach. Thus, some view the Call of Tala as a time for mending ties. When the eclipse finally passes, the family sits around the Matriarch and thanks her for her protection. As the family members leave, should any be visiting, it is customary that the Matriarch not be told or watch. This represents the many Taladin that left from Tala.
As an eclipse may occur each month, though not guaranteed, the Call of Tala is one of the most practiced traditions. It is sometimes used as a means to bring together family members during busy times.