Grace Sherwood, “Witch of Pungo”

“The Mysterious Witch of Pungo: Unveiling the Secrets and Powers of Grace Sherwood!”

• Alias: Witch of Pungo
• Gender: Female
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Herbalist, Healer
• Religion: Christian
• Allies: Nature spirits, fellow herbalists
• Enemies: Accusers and those who believe in her alleged witchcraft
• Abode/Base of Operations: Her cottage in Pungo
• Nationality: American (Colonial Virginia)
• Languages: English
• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Affiliation(s): None official, but she is known and respected in her community
• Significant Others: Grace was married to her husband, James Sherwood, who passed away before the accusations of witchcraft began. She has a daughter named Elizabeth.

Grace Sherwood is a remarkable woman who resides in the tranquil town of Pungo. She is a figure of intrigue and mystery, often referred to as the “Witch of Pungo” by the townsfolk. Throughout her life, Grace has faced relentless accusations and persecution due to her alleged magical abilities. Despite the constant scrutiny and fear-driven rumors, Grace remains resilient and steadfast.

With a deep connection to nature, Grace spends her days tending to her vibrant herbal garden, cultivating a wide array of medicinal plants. Her extensive knowledge of herbal remedies and healing practices has garnered the attention of those in need. Grace is known for her compassionate nature, providing aid to the sick and wounded, and offering solace to those burdened by physical or emotional pain.

However, behind her gentle demeanor lies a woman who yearns for acceptance and understanding. Grace’s true desire is to live harmoniously with her community, to be recognized for her benevolence and the depth of her wisdom. She strives to dispel the prejudices that surround her, challenging the misconceptions about her alleged witchcraft.

With unwavering determination, Grace embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the accusations leveled against her. She seeks to shed light on her genuine intentions and prove her innocence. Grace believes that by unraveling the mysteries surrounding her alleged magical powers, she can dismantle the walls of fear and ignorance that separate her from the townsfolk.

In her heart, Grace Sherwood carries the hope of reconciliation and acceptance. She aims to bridge the divide between herself and her community, demonstrating that her supposed witchcraft is nothing more than misunderstood knowledge and a profound connection to the natural world. Through her actions, Grace aspires to inspire compassion, unity, and the appreciation of all that is magical and extraordinary in the world around us.

Grace Sherwood

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class: 14 (studded leather) Hit Points: 65 (10d8 + 20) Speed: 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
12 (+1)	16 (+3)	14 (+2)	14 (+2)	18 (+4)	16 (+3)

Skills: Medicine +8, Nature +6, Perception +8, Survival +8 Senses: Passive Perception 18 Languages: Common Challenge Rating: 6 (2,300 XP)

Actions

• Staff. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage.
• Charm Person (3/day). Grace Sherwood attempts to charm a humanoid she can see within 30 feet of her. The target must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed by Grace for 1 hour.

Legendary Resistance Grace Sherwood can choose to succeed on a saving throw that would normally cause her to fail.

Magic Resistance Grace Sherwood has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects.

Spellcasting Grace Sherwood is a 10th-level spellcaster. Her spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +8 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells prepared:

• Cantrips (at will): Druidcraft, Guidance, Mending, Thorn Whip
• 1st level (4 slots): Cure Wounds, Detect Magic, Entangle, Speak with Animals
• 2nd level (3 slots): Barkskin, Lesser Restoration, Pass without Trace, Spike Growth
• 3rd level (3 slots): Call Lightning, Dispel Magic, Plant Growth, Speak with Plants
• 4th level (3 slots): Conjure Woodland Beings, Freedom of Movement, Grasping Vine
• 5th level (1 slot): Commune with Nature, Reincarnate

Plot Hooks

• The Witch of Pungo: Grace Sherwood, known as the Witch of Pungo, is infamous for her alleged witchcraft and ability to communicate with animals. The players find themselves in a small coastal village plagued by mysterious happenings, from crops failing to unexplained disappearances. The locals are divided, with some fearing Grace’s supposed powers while others see her as a misunderstood healer. The players must navigate the complex web of accusations, secrets, and supernatural occurrences surrounding Grace, unraveling the truth behind the accusations and helping restore peace to the village.
• The Hidden Herbalist: Grace Sherwood is a skilled herbalist with deep knowledge of rare and powerful potions. The players are approached by a desperate noble seeking a cure for a deadly ailment that plagues their family. Rumors of Grace’s remarkable healing abilities lead the players to seek her out. They must track down her hidden herb garden, hidden deep within a mystical forest. Along the way, they encounter enchanted creatures, solve puzzles, and face trials to prove their worthiness to learn from Grace. Working together, they gather the necessary ingredients to create a potent antidote and save the noble from certain death.
• The Curse Breaker: Grace Sherwood seeks the aid of the players to break a centuries-old curse that has haunted her family for generations. The curse has caused misfortune, tragedy, and unrest, and Grace is determined to put an end to it. To break the curse, the players must delve into the forgotten history of Grace’s ancestors, uncover hidden clues, and confront vengeful spirits tied to the curse. Along the way, they face dangerous trials, solve riddles, and gather the necessary artifacts to perform a powerful ritual that will finally free Grace and her descendants from the curse’s grip.
• The Lost Familiar: Grace Sherwood’s beloved familiar, a mischievous fox, has gone missing in a nearby enchanted forest. The players are approached by Grace, who pleads for their help in finding her loyal companion. As they venture into the mystical forest, they encounter magical creatures, navigate treacherous paths, and solve puzzles created by the forest’s ancient guardians. Along their journey, they uncover the forest’s secrets and learn of a powerful artifact that could aid them in their search. Ultimately, they must confront a powerful guardian and prove their worth to earn the return of the familiar and the gratitude of Grace.
• The Midnight Ritual: Grace Sherwood is rumored to conduct a secretive midnight ritual in a hidden grove, where she harnesses the magic of the moon and the natural world. The players, drawn to the allure of this mystical gathering, must gain Grace’s trust and prove their worthiness to witness and participate in the ritual. To do so, they embark on a quest to complete a series of tasks that test their bravery, wisdom, and connection to nature. As they progress, they unlock temporary magical abilities granted by the ritual and gain deeper insights into the hidden mysteries of the world.
• The Ghostly Accuser: Grace Sherwood is haunted by the vengeful spirit of a wrongfully accused witch from the past. The spirit seeks redemption and justice, and only by helping Grace uncover the truth behind the accusation can the spirit find peace. The players are tasked with assisting Grace in her quest, investigating the events of the past, and confronting the spirit in a climactic showdown. Along the way, they encounter spectral apparitions, decipher ancient texts, and uncover forgotten secrets that shed light on the injustice committed against Grace. Through their actions, they aim to bring closure to the restless spirit and bring justice to Grace’s name.
• The Herbal Remedy: Grace Sherwood holds the key to a rare herbal remedy that can cure a deadly plague ravaging a nearby village. The players are approached by desperate villagers who beseech them to seek out Grace and convince her to share her knowledge. However, rival factions, including a corrupt alchemist guild and a power-hungry noble, also seek to control the remedy for their own gain. The players must navigate treacherous alliances, gather scarce ingredients from perilous locations, and deal with moral dilemmas as they decide who should ultimately possess the cure. Their actions will have far-reaching consequences for both Grace and the afflicted village.
• The Trials of Pungo: Grace Sherwood, in her later years, organizes a series of challenging trials in the village of Pungo to test the bravery and skills of those who dare to participate. The players are drawn to this event and are invited to join the competition. They face physical obstacles, solve intricate puzzles, and demonstrate their virtue and integrity to earn Grace’s favor. Those who succeed in completing the trials are rewarded with a coveted magical artifact known as the “Heart of Pungo,” said to bestow great power and protection. However, the trials are not without danger, as participants must overcome their own weaknesses and confront their inner fears.
• The Astral Projection: Grace Sherwood has discovered a long-lost ritual that allows her to project her spirit into the astral plane, granting her access to hidden realms and ancient knowledge. Impressed by the players’ abilities, she invites them to join her in exploring this ethereal realm. Together, they journey through astral mazes, encounter celestial beings, and face mind-bending challenges that test their perception and willpower. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of the multiverse, they unravel secrets that have long been forgotten and gain newfound insights that may alter the course of their own destinies.
• The Hidden Prophecy: Grace Sherwood possesses a cryptic prophecy that holds the key to preventing a catastrophic event that could plunge the realm into darkness. The players, chosen by fate, are entrusted with deciphering the prophecy’s hidden meanings and embarking on a perilous journey to gather ancient artifacts that will unlock its full power. Along the way, they face off against dark forces who seek to misuse the prophecy for their own nefarious purposes. The players must make difficult choices, form unlikely alliances, and prove their worth as they strive to fulfill the prophecy and save the realm from impending doom.

Currently in the World

Grace Sherwood is a woman in her late 40s, standing at an average height with a lean and wiry build. Her weathered face bears the marks of a life spent outdoors, with deep lines etched around her eyes and a determined set to her jaw. Her hair, streaked with strands of silver, is often tied back in a simple braid.

Currently, Grace Sherwood stands in her herb garden, tending to the vibrant array of plants that surround her. The sun casts a warm glow on her as she carefully plucks leaves and flowers, expertly selecting the ones with healing properties. Her surroundings are a patchwork of colors and scents, with various herbs and wildflowers flourishing under her care.

Grace’s mood is calm and serene, as she finds solace in the quietude of nature. Despite the shadows of accusation that loom over her, she remains steadfast and resolute, her eyes reflecting a sense of determination and inner strength. There is a hint of sadness in her expression, a weight carried from the injustice she has endured, yet it is tempered by a quiet grace and a touch of defiance.

In her simple attire, a worn dress of earthy hues and a shawl draped around her shoulders, Grace blends harmoniously with the natural world around her. Her weathered hands, roughened by years of labor, move with a gentle touch as she interacts with the plants, embodying a deep connection and understanding of the healing power they possess.