Preface:
In the shadowed corners of Waterford, California, a secret world thrives—one where loyalty, cunning, and survival are the currency of life. This is the world of the Cartel Cats, a fierce and complex family bound not by blood, but by trust and the unbreakable bonds forged in the darkest alleys.
At the heart of this family is Felicia, the Village Ma. Wise, nurturing, and unshakable, Felicia is the matriarch all the cats turn to for guidance. She has seen the rise and fall of many, and her calm presence holds the fragile peace between powerful forces.
Among her closest are six formidable cats, each with a story shaped by the harsh realities of their world:
El Gato Blanco, the elusive leader, master of strategy and escape, whose sharp mind commands respect and fear alike.
Inspiration: Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán—legendary cartel boss, master of escapes and leadership.
La Sombra, the silent scout, moving unseen through the shadows, gathering secrets and watching for danger.
Inspiration: Cartel hitmen ("sicarios")—stealthy, loyal, and always in the know.
El Tigre, the fierce protector, whose strength and loyalty defend the family at all costs.
Inspiration: Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes—feared and respected cartel leader, known for power and unpredictability. Fears lol jk Ed.
La Serpiente, the smooth negotiator, weaving webs of deception and persuasion to keep the cartel's interests alive.
Inspiration: Cartel negotiators and corrupt officials—charming, persuasive, and skilled in manipulation.
El Zorro, the clever planner and tech expert, always calculating the next move to outwit their enemies.
Inspiration: Cartel "brains" and money launderers—intelligent strategists who keep operations running from the shadows.
La Pantera, the graceful assassin with a mysterious past, whose deadly skills are matched only by her quiet resolve.
Inspiration: Female cartel leaders ("Las Jefas")—commanding respect in a male-dominated world, skilled and enigmatic.
Together, they navigate a perilous world of power struggles, betrayal, and survival. Each cat brings a unique strength, but it is Felicia's wisdom that binds them—reminding them that even in the darkest nights, there is hope, and sometimes, a real life hero.
Character Name Role/Personality Inspiration/Notes Backstory
Felicia The Village Ma; wise, nurturing, tough when needed Inspired by classic matriarchs, "village mom" archetype, and Felicia from The Great Mouse Detective Grew up caring for strays and orphans in the barrio; survived tough times, became the group's heart and source of wisdom.
El Gato Blanco Loyal enforcer; brave but has secret soft spots Name nod to "El Gato" from Heathcliff; classic loyal right-hand cat Once a street fighter, he earned his scars protecting others; loyal to Felicia for saving him from a bad path.
La Sombra Quiet observer; sensitive, feels like an outsider "The shadow" archetype; represents those who watch and feel deeply Grew up in the background, often overlooked; learned to listen and notice everything, struggles with feeling invisible.
La Pantera Fearless, athletic, but jumps at small surprises Panther archetype; tough exterior, but relatable fears (like cucumbers or spiders) Known for daring rooftop runs and bold moves, but secretly hates bugs and unexpected frights; uses humor to cope.
El Tigre The muscle; not afraid of fights, but dreads vulnerability Tiger archetype; classic "tough guy" who's soft inside Feared on the streets, but hides a gentle side; terrified of showing weakness or talking about feelings.
El Zorro Clever, fast-talking, comic relief Fox archetype ("Zorro" means "fox" in Spanish); brings humor and street smarts Grew up hustling and talking his way out of trouble; always ready with a joke, but hides his own insecurities.
Pawloma Youngest, eager, wants to prove herself Inspired by "paloma" (dove) for innocence, but with a twist—she's scrappy and bold The "kid sister" of the crew; dreams big, sometimes gets in over her head, but always bounces back with determination.