When I first met Si’Kwae
The character’s name was inspired by a phrase from a friend of mine’s speech in Toastmasters. He was sharing how coupled got married the “Sikh way” and the phrase evolved in my mind to Si’Kwae.
The characters’ appearance was inspired by another friend, who also happens to be of Indian descent. He had really big, round, brown eyes. In my head, I basically slapped his head on this alien body. Funny how ideas come about, eh?
What is that? went through her mind as she looked at the four legged, two armed, big-eyed creature.
It stretched its legs in an insectile manner, cocked its head to one side then took a step forward, each leg moving as if in line behind the other.
“Si’Kwae. Si’Kwae. I am Si’Kwae.” It cocked its head to the other side.
Pat smiled. She realized that she half expected Si’Kwae to offer her green eggs and ham.
She looked at Torg, who smiled at her.
“I am Pat and this is my companion, Torg.” She put out her hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”
Si’Kwae stared up at her hand and cocked it head back to the other side.
Pat started to laugh. “Shaking hands is a form of greeting.”
Si’Kwae paused, then stuck out its hand and shook it in the air.
Pat and Torg laughed. “No, this i what I mean.” Pat took Si’Kwae’s hand and shook it vigorously.
Si’Kwae’s eyes got bigger and his mouth formed an “O” of surprise.