The first panel is a representation of Jiral and Sothaiya's thoughts. (The dark-furred thrinn is named Sothaiya, but that fact doesn't become apparent until later, when they learn each other's languages.) They're both thinking the same thing, but each in their own language. The shared nature of their thoughts is indicated by the universal Thrinn hieroglyphics for "love" and "eye". They instantly fall in love. (This is a very typical reaction of Thrinnyng when they encounter someone new of the opposite sex, especially someone close to their own age, but of different appearance.) In the second panel, Shireetha approaches them, saying "Go ahead and introduce yourself to her, Jiral. I'll keep watch for you." (Thakinya: Tai sitha ti, Zhiraal! Kei no kisaithi sen!) Actually, that's a very bad translation. There isn't a better way to say it in English, though.