"I brought Miraj under my wing, and into our faith, for twofold reasons; the first being that she deserves the fullest education and exposure to new ideas and faiths, of our people and those of other species.  The second, if she permits..."  The felinoid woman turned to her familial acolyte, who nodded softly as she stood next to the other attendant.

"The second reason is to try and push her out of her shell bit by bit.  She's always been... a bit shy, growing up.  What better way than to bring her to a cultural exchange with one of our newly discovered neighbors?  Speaking of which, my order believed it prudent that we present unto you tokens of faith and hospitality."

The older of the three Kri'ghal motioned elegantly to her niece and the other acolyte, who would in turn remove the silken shrouds covering the ceremonial velvet pillows to reveal a pendant for each of the assembled Terrans.  Immaculately carved jade and aquamarine, coupled with delicately applied rivulets of gold and silver, came to form what could only be described as a sort of triskelion.  A prayer stone, no doubt, if the surprising seriousness and reverence the woman approached them with, beginning with Smith himself.