Learn about Johannes van der Berg, a key character in The Sinking City. Discover his role, his philosophy club, and his connection to the city's mysteries and Cthygonnaar.
Johannes van der Berg
Johannes van der Berg is a Dutch intellectual who's invited Charles Reed to Oakmont to investigate his visions. He's a bit of a philosopher, running a club and talking about the nature of consciousness and suffering. He's also got some pretty unusual knowledge about the city's deeper mysteries.
First Meeting
When you first arrive in Oakmont, Van der Berg will greet you. He'll give you a city map and suggest you stay at the Devil's Reef Hotel. Keep an eye out for him; he's usually wearing a distinctive yellow suit.
Hospital and the Seal of Dagon
After you wake up in St. Mary's Hospital, Van der Berg will be there to fill you in on the Seal of Dagon and point you towards Billy Drunnon. He'll ask you to meet him at the Crown Theater once you've retrieved the Seal.
A Shocking Discovery
Things take a turn when you find Van der Berg's corpse at the Crown Theater. He appears to have been shot by someone who looks a lot like you. Don't worry, though; he's not actually dead. You'll meet him again later at the Devil's Reef Hotel.
The Truth About Cthygonnaar
Van der Berg has some mind-blowing knowledge about Cthygonnaar and its contents, including Cthylla, the daughter of Cthulhu. He'll explain the concept of the 'Seed' and the cyclical role of imprisoning or releasing Cthylla. He'll suggest you free her, believing humanity's suffering is pointless and that her destruction might be a release for her.
Moving On
Regardless of your choice regarding Cthylla, Van der Berg will help you by directing you to Professor Joseph Hill, who can open Cthygonnaar. Later, depending on your choices, you might see him again, either ageless by the port or in a pub discussing a new Flood in Boston, hinting at his supernatural nature.
Trivia
- His surname, "Van der Berg," means "of the Mountain."
- He has a fondness for the color yellow.
- It's heavily suggested that Van der Berg is an avatar of Hastur, also known as "The King in Yellow."
100% Human-Written. AI Fact-Checked. Community Verified. Learn how AntMag verifies content