¶ Overview
The Groggy Froggy began as a family-owned tavern but fell into disrepute under Klard Vunker’s harsh management. During the 4714 AR Charge of the Gorgons festival, a rampaging gorgon’s breath petrified Klard just outside his own establishment. His grateful staff dragged his statue back inside and displayed it as a permanent—and somewhat mocking—trophy. In the aftermath, the employees formed a cooperative and steadily revived the tavern’s fortunes, restoring it to one of Westgate’s most beloved establishments .
¶ Owner & Management
Employee Cooperative: All former staff pooled resources to buy out Klard’s stake.
Annara Laskin (Manager): A tiefling sorcerer whose arcane talents sustain much of the tavern’s upkeep—illuminating the sign, magically scrubbing the floors, and even crafting signature grog recipes. She personally erases each week’s “Klarding” paint from Klard’s statue, ensuring a fresh canvas for the next contest .
¶ Architecture & Decor
- Antique Frog Sign: Painstakingly restored to reflect the tavern’s original 18th-century branding.
- Klard’s Statue: Positioned near the entrance in a permanent gape-mouthed pose, it serves both as a reminder of past folly and as an ever-changing art project during weekly contests.
- Interior: Refinished wooden beams and stone floors evoke the tavern’s storied past, while hidden arcane wards and gentle illumination lend a warm, welcoming glow.
¶ Services & Menu
- Artisan Grogs: An ever-rotating selection of house-brewed concoctions (e.g., the fiery “Dragon’s Breath” grog) that blend exotic ingredients with minor magical effects.
- Bar Games: From oversized dice-toss to enchanted dartboards that hum when you score, the Froggy offers spirited competition year-round.
- Arcane Amenities: Self-cleaning floors and magically maintained seating ensure comfort and cleanliness without the bustle of constant staff intervention.
¶ Traditions & Events
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Weekly “Klarding” Contest: Patrons decorate Klard’s statue with paints, miniature costumes, and props. Votes are cast for the most inventive design, and the winner receives a free round of grog. Annara Laskin then dispels the adornments every Sunday .
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Festival Tie-Ins: Groggy Froggy frequently partners with Westgate celebrations—providing special brews for events like the Charge of the Gorgons memorial and the Gorgon’s Wake.
¶ Notable Persons
- Klard Vunker (Statue): Former tavern owner, renowned for his cruel humor and ultimate petrification.
- Annara Laskin: Tiefling sorcerer (Char 8) and cooperative manager, whose magic underpins the tavern’s daily operations .
- Former Staff: A rotating cast of servers, barkeeps, and artisans who maintain the cooperative spirit that revitalized the Froggy.