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Luca Balsa, also known as the "Prisoner", is one of the 50 playable Survivors added to Identity V.
This page is a compilation of lore and story content for this character.
Backstory[]
Character Introduction[]
Luca Balsa used to be considered friendly and too trusting by most people. No one knows where he came from or has seen his family, but clearly, he's well educated. He has a tremendous sense of pride and he is curious about all sorts of scientific inventions.
And so it's no surprise that he became the assistant of the most famous inventor in town.
The great inventor thinks highly of Luca and a lot of people thought he would be the inventor's successor. Yet everything came to a halt because of an academic dispute. The great inventor claimed that Luca sold his research to a competitor behind his back, that Luca is an ungrateful traitor. Yet Luca said the great inventor is a thief who has run out of ideas.
No one knows what actually happened as the great inventor died in an accident in the laboratory, while Luca suffered irreversible brain damage and was accused of murder. Luca was sentenced to hang, but he was somehow pardoned at the last minute.
Yet there is no turning back for Luca. His memory becomes poor and he can't concentrate on his work. He can no longer conduct scientific researches and all of his savings went to the immense compensation for the inventor's wife.
Nevertheless, Luca is still determined to complete his initial invention, but this requires a lot of money. And so he decides to take a gamble on the invitation which promised him an enormous reward.[6]
Character Relations Menu[]
Luca Balsa was considered friendly and trustworthy by most people, yet no one knew where he came from or ever met his family. All they knew was that he was well-education, prideful, and tremendously curious about science.
To no one's surprise, he became the assistant of the most renowned inventor in town.
The great inventor thought highly of Luca, and most people thought he would become his successor. Yet everything came to a halt because of an academic dispute.
The great inventor claimed Luca was an ungrateful traitor for stealing and selling his research to his competitor. Yet, Luca said the great inventor himself was the thief who had run out of ideas.
No one knew exactly what happened, as the great inventor died in an accident in the laboratory, while Luca suffered irreversible brain damage and was accused of murder.
Luca was sentenced to hang, but was somehow pardoned at the last minute.
There was no turning back for Luca. His memory rapidly deteriorated, and he couldn't concentrate on his work. He could no longer conduct scientific research, and all of his savings went to the immense compensation demanded by the inventor's wife.
Nevertheless, Luca was still determined to complete his invention, but this would require a fortune. And so, he decided to take a gamble on the invitation, which promised an enormous reward.
Character Trailer[]
Trailer Transcript[]
I don't even remember how long I've been working this humble job.
I don't seem to remember anything
except for my vague memories of that invention.
I knew if since I first saw it
that I'd never fall in love with anything else.
You know, it feels so good to have one's invention.
But why did he always think that I got it wrong
I never found the answer, not even when the electric current struck his brain.
He's dead
but there's no way to know whether I'd be spared
In the end, someone helped me get acquitted
But then getting away with it might have been worse
as the great invention wouldn't be completed still.
Until that letter came.
I just know it would restore everything.
Deduction Quests[]
All completed Objectives reward the player with +335 Logic points for the Logic Path. After the character's deductions are completed, their Worn Clothes will be available.
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Letters[]
This section contains the letters the player receives after completing Luca's Birthday Event on July 10th each year. After the event they can be accessed in the file section of the character's Notebook page.
An Old Cover Letter (2021)[]
Dear Professor Lorenz,
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Luca Balsa, and I am the student you spoke with at the Laiden Art and Industry Exhibit the other day. I could hardly restrain my excitement and admiration after meeting you, and so I decided to write you a letter. Please forgive me if my doing so offends you in any way.
Long before the exhibition, I had the good fortune of coming across your publications, and I became extremely interested in your research concerning electromagnetism and your conjecture on the theory of electrons. In addition, our chance encounter at the exhibition and the simple yet precious exchange we shared only strengthened my determination to join you in you laboratory someday. To speak candidly, the moment I laid eyes on your masterpiece at the exhibition, I knew that it would become my lifelong work! Although it is only a concept model at present, I truly believe that, with your tutelage and experimentation, the idea of an "eternally perfect machine" will become a reality.
Also, no doubt you have heard by now, but the National Academy of Sciences has passed a resolution that more or less discourages the research of any machine that demonstrates perpetual motion. While this may very well double our research expenditures in the future, I refuse to give up; after all, my family and I know full well the price of dedicating ourselves to science.
What I mean to say is that I do not believe this line of research to be a waste of tools, time, or talent—how could it be? Though I hesitate to bring him up, my father himself ruined our family financially in pursuit of this research, yet only produced a handful of rudimentary hypotheses for his troubles... As far as the manuscripts of his experimental records and theoretical conjectures, I have attached them to this letter. You will also find my own thesis on energy and using magnetism to change and control its direction attached below. I only hop that you will have a chance to look over my research and possibly offer your invaluable guidance.
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to read my letter. I pray that you will allow me the distinct privilege of becoming one of your students.
Sincerely yours,
Luca Balsa.[TN 1]
A Page from a Diary Written in Messy Handwriting (2022)[]
The truth is hidden in those complicated calculations. It's Herman Balsa's writing. I'm sure of it.
Now I understand why Lorenz was willing to part with so much during the auction and why that man's manuscripts were locked away—it's because they contain the proof of his betrayal!
I may not care about the truth of that man's death, but Alva Lorenz, the renowned inventor, the first person to push for the "perfect machine," and also my teacher, is actually a downright hypocrite! To think he stole the work of his collaborator to make a name for himself!
The person he stole from just happens to be... It's disgusting.
Based on the timeline, perhaps he had rotten long before that man did.
I should never have forgotten... Rats live in groups, and only hyenas seek out collaborators. Alva Lorenz worked with that scum who abandoned his family for years, so how could he be any better?
I used to take pride in being called "Lorenz Jr." What a fool I am! I don't want to and never will be him! Those who are not capable of thinking are no more than animals... No, they're worse than insects. That Tridactylidae! Schistocerca! Geometridae! Katydid!
A Page from Luca Balsa's Experiment File (2023)[]
Serial No: 10-0-2
Name: Luca Balsa
[Test Indicators]
1. High Intelligence
2. Conceited
3. Stubborn
[Inclination]
A stubborn "idealist"
[Test Results]
1. Over all Evaluation:
Frequent electrical stimulation caused permanent brain damage to Subject 10-0-2. From the observation results available, there were irreversible deficits in Subject 10-0-2's memory, cognitive and psychological functioning, together with what he went through, contributed to Subject 10-0-2's performance and position at the beginning of the experiment, such as extreme disgust with acts of betrayal. Surprisingly, the changes brought about by such damage didn't put Subject 10-0-2's awareness of the experiment itself and his stubborn personality, as well as his precise assessment of and countermeasures for potential crises, allowing him to gain the initiative under extremely unfavorable conditions, much beyond our expectations. In particular, Subject 10-0-2's intention to modify the key facilities of the experiment is a point of caution.
2. Methodology:
At the beginning of the experiment, the exchange of information between Subject 10-0-2 and Subject 10-0-1 was only superficial, which allowed them to establish a mutually beneficial and efficient understanding of both. Since Subject 10-0-1 and Subject 10-0-2 had different substantive expectations of their own ideal — both of them had this realization within a very short period of time. The extremely high level of self-esteem caused Subject 10-0-2 to appear cynical, which became one of the driving forces behind the eventual end of their collaboration between Subject 10-0-1 and Subject 10-0-2. The subjects in this group were all, to varying degrees, outward manifestations of reverence for instrumental rationally, but at the same time, their rare talent created an intense internal contradiction that led to the opposite of secular utility. At the end of the experiment, this tension tore through almost all appearances of equanimity.
Initially, the collaboration between Subject 10-0-2 and Subject 10-0-1 yielded promising results. As opposed to other experimental groups' focus on details and progress, neither of them fell into this thinking trap, but instead gained effective insight into the experiment itself based on the limited experimental space — such exhaustive review even somewhat brilliantly bypassed the presence of the executioner and allowed the two collaborators to obtain the key for solving the critical puzzle. After careful evaluation, the risks posed by the unprecedented development may provide useful supporting material.
Subject 10-0-2 showed higher than primitive levels of compliance and altruism in their collaboration, and this temporary appearance caused some adverse interference with the executioner's judgment. Subject 10-0-2's partnership with Subject 10-0-1 ultimately proved difficult to maintain. The superficial collaboration couldn't reconcile the stakes with each other, let alone solve the problem of the two insist doing things their own way. At the same time, due to Subject 10-0-1's strong confidence in controlling the situation and Subject 10-0-2's lack of experience, the subtle traps laid by Subject 10-0-1 instead became the ambush that led to his own failure.
As the experiment made initial progress, as a second batch of subjects was put into a new round of observation to act as an influential factor that matched the experimental characteristics of the group. Subject 10-0-2's attitude toward Subject 10-1-3 showed great contrasts in succession: at first, a rare empathy stemming from a similar experience, which then turned into a subtly hidden murderous intent. This change in attitude — combined with Subject 10-0-2's certain attachment to the past — was clearly traceable. After abandoning an otherwise prudent yet roundabout plan, Subject 10-0-2, based on the information and materials available to him under limited conditions, and catalyzed by the combined actions of Subject 10-0-1 and Subject 10-1-3, ultimate brought this experiment to a brutal yet brilliant conclusion.
3. Experiment Summary:
The "highly intelligent" as represented by Subject 10-0-2 appeared to be relatively gentle and cooperative in the early stages of the experiment.
Their "collaboration" was more like the efficient workings of the bearings and hears of a large machine based entirely on judgment in the professional field — and flawless logic. Yet this was, in fact, a hint of the collapse of such superficial collaboration in a competitive environment filled with conflicts of interest and suspicion. The subjects, represented by Subject 10-0-2, showed cruelty and recklessness akin to that of an uneducated child when self-interest was at stake. The shell of rationality was like an intricate but fragile house of card that would quickly collapse once it was exposed to external forces.
An Abruptly Halted Journal (2024)[]
After the conclusion of the game, I finally carved out some time to recuperate and conduct a necessary examination of my body - my left arm was nearly immobile, devoid of sensation save for searing pain, while my right arm remained intact, as planned, affording me enough strength for delicate operations. Moreover, I had nearly emptied the entirety of my stomach.
My prior investigation into the electrical mechanisms within the arena was not in vain. It proved that any price was worth paying, as long as one did not succumb to a fatal situation, especially for someone who had long ago been left with nothing to lose.
Regardless, this fleeting victory is mine — though it is far from a time for celebration. As long as the victor does not circumvent the inducements and rules laid down by the shadowy organizer, everything is meaningless.
From the discovery of the mechanical lines laid underground, he did not shy away from revealing his intentions in the game, a frankness that was almost nauseating. In his conception, there is no essential difference between humans and experimental animals. According to the conditions set for me, as long as I win once more, I can leave here with all that he has promised... but this is not enough, of course, it's not enough.
I'm still alive now, carrying the information obtained from the investigation, I cannot let all this become a futile attempt.
...
I have returned to the main building, and now await the arrival of the other participants. The second game is about to begin.
The electric shocks triggered by the mechanisms have further exacerbated my memory problems, making it difficult for me to recall events before coming here. However, during the time I lost consciousness, only a few certain images inexplicably appeared in my dreams:
It was an earlier inquiry, "Is there something you wish to do?"
In my memory, disclosing my intentions was not so difficult at that time. "A difficult path," the man continued, "but very good, you can listen in on the physics conference every Wednesday."
Afterward, I never received another "very good" from him. He became obsessed with peddling his ludicrous fantasies, standing neither on the side of ideals nor reality. I accompanied my mother through the last few nights until she departed. That man overturned rows of brown medicine bottles and ordered me to hide my final feelings and swallow them down.
Mediocre, weak, selfish, and short-lived gnats.
More memories have become blurred, but I think this is why, to this day, I have not forgotten to maintain my hatred.
Even a cripple born to die has the right to imagine the infinity of things. For this, I must get out of here.
...
That gaunt old man is no longer in the manor. I now utilize the hidden chamber that once served as his refuge — the new participants give me an intuitive sense of danger. I do not understand what kind of experiences could create such abnormal eyes. I must quickly ascertain some information on these people.
I perused the notes they carried, filled with fanatical narratives about truth — not focused on science and logic, but on chaos and passion far beyond common sense. These foolish and delusional words stray from the only path to wisdom and cannot even be considered cunning rhetoric. Is this the opposite of the previous game — another deliberate setup?
I am almost certain that the man known as the "brother in faith" has discovered my existence... but can human sight penetrate walls encased by such mechanisms? As I stared at the recording devices within the manor, I felt his gaze linger meaningfully in front of me, then move away without a sound.
He did not expose my existence to the others, nor did he investigate. Why? Does he know who I am?
No, no, I couldn't possibly have anything to do with such a fanatic...
Soon, the ritual they speak of will begin, and I have no time left for hesitation.
A Message (2025)[]
Luca Balsa, a cog in the machinery of an ideal world, has never known a moment of respite since the upheaval of his youth. He refuses to yield to the forces that seek to break him, or to the inscrutable malice hidden behind them. Even if the promise of an effortless dream beckons, he chooses instead to walk an endless path—one with no guarantees, and no turning back.
Letter Summaries[]
These summaries are found in the Character Relations menu after the letter has been received.
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Rewards[]
How many years the player has participated and completed the Birthday Event determines which letter they receive and the extra reward.
- If this is the first time the player has completed the event, they would get a portrait and the 2021 letter.
- If this is the second time the player has completed the event, they would get a portrait frame and the 2022 letter.
- If this is the third time the player has completed the event, they would get a dynamic graffiti and the 2023 letter.
- If this is the fourth time the player has completed the event, they would get an emote and the 2024 letter.
- If this is the fifth time the player has completed the event, they would get a portrait furnishing of the character and the 2025 letter.
Character Resources[]
The additional in-game and external documents for this character include:
The Character Relations Web shows "Prisoner's" connections to other characters.
Birthday Questions[]
Only the questions and answers relating to his backstory were included here. The other questions not listed relate to gameplay.
- 2022 Birthday questions:
- Question 4: "Who made a huge bid to win the manuscript of Luca's father during the auction?" Answer: "Alva Lorenz"
- Question 5: "What was attached to the cover letter that Luca gave Lorenz?" Answer: "His father's manuscript"
- 2023 Birthday questions:
5th Birthday Clues[]
- Sections of the wall have been selectively dismantled, revealing mechanical structures whirring within the hollow interior. Each part seemingly connected to a hidden core.
- Despite the toll, he remains vigilant. Yet, warm light seeping in from outside leaves him momentarily transfixed.
- Shadows loom everywhere, immense and pitch black, watching in silence with golden, cat-like eyes.
- A single beam of light pierces the darkness, faintly illuminating the confined space. He reaches out, desperate to grasp something from the void.
- A set of heavily worn tools lies nearby, capable of uncovering truth or providing shelter, depending on the hand that wields them.
Quotations[]
- Deduction Star 2020 quotes:
- "I may be in a prison uniform, but I'm not imprisoned."
- "It's no easy task connecting the circuits, but it's what I do best!"
- "When will I create my great invention?"
- Deduction Star 2021 quotes:
- "It's ironic. I should thank my teacher for instilling me with these principles."
- "There's no fairness in this world, only wins and losses."
- "Life is too short and regrets are more terrifying than failures. That's why I'd rather give it a try."
- Nymph Awards 2022 quotes:
- "Thank you, but all I want is for my invention to be acknowledged."
- "Courage isn't the only thing you need to go against the tide."
- Valentine's Day 2023 Cards quotes:
- "My experience tells me that emotion is less trustworthy than science. But if it's you, I still hope to get to know you and spend more days of happiness with you."
- "Even ice-cold gear can be made into flowers that symbolize beauty. Yes, I firmly believe that science is an indispensable part of making a good life for myself, and I can't do it without your understanding and companionship. Happy Valentine's Day!"
- 5th Anniversary Congratulatory Video quote:
- "The 5th birthday of Oletus. My sincere blessings to every Detective and our guests. I hope that all of you will have a good time at this wonderful party."[7]
- 6th Anniversary Congratulatory Video quote:
- "Hello, thanks for inviting me. Happy 6th birthday.
Such lively scenes always remind me of the past......
If you would be so kind, may I use the piano for a bit?"[8]
- "Hello, thanks for inviting me. Happy 6th birthday.
- Qixi Festival 2024 Wishing Star quote:
- "Those who march toward science and truth will not regret it. One day, I will prove everything."
- Autumn Harvest Tavern Guestbook quote:
- "Homemade red pepper sauce! This is exciting, but I wonder—will everyone like this recipe?"
- 7th Anniversary Congratulatory Video quote:
- "It's been a while since we last met—are you all doing well?
There are some things that I can't quite remember, but the time I spent with you—anniversary celebrations from previous years, the science experiments—those memories are still very clear to me.
I'll always remember this 7th Anniversary Celebration as well. The time I've spent with all of you is just as important to me as my experiments."[8]
- "It's been a while since we last met—are you all doing well?
- Nymph Awards 2025 quote:
- "You get my design? Really?! Hmm. Not quite. What you said is still a little off from what I had in mind."
- New Year's 2026 quote:
- "Order: Light of Inspiration
Note: Science should not rely on magic. But if such a light exists, let it spark my purpose and close the circuit of truth."[9]
- "Order: Light of Inspiration
Reply Web Events[]
| Reply Web Events | ||
|---|---|---|
| Icon | Event | Quote |
|
Valentine's Day 2021 | "Give this to me? Hehe, isn't it a delicious chocolate? Thanks." |
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Halloween 2021 | "For Halloween costumes, It's not that I'm not interested ... I'm sorry, I can't take my hands off now. There is a part that I would like to proceed with my research. It's okay if it's over ... … What if we gather people together Even on Halloween, which is out of season Would you like to try it?" |
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Valentine's Day 2022 | "Why did you give me a present out of the blue? You are too kind!" "Huh? This box seems to be modifiable, let me add something... By the way, why did you give this to me?" |
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Halloween 2022 | (`⊗﹁◓´) [Chinese]: "Ah, speaking of which I only found out when you knocked on the door... The doorbell seems to be broken. Why have I forgotten to fix it before? Damn it." [Japanese]: "... I realized when you knocked on the door... The door bell was broken... A long time ago... Why did I forget to fix it... Damn..." |
Japanese Twitter Replies[]
Please press "Expand" to see in-character replies from the official Japanese Twitter.[10]
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| Event Appearances | ||
|---|---|---|
| Icon | Event | Role |
| The Phantom of the Crystal Palace (March - April 2022) |
Investigator, Paranormal Detective | |
| Castle Zinaida's Unfinished Chapter (July - August 2023) | ||
| N/A | Bungo Stray Dogs Crossover Part I (Mentioned) (November 2022) |
Himself |
| A Christmas Eve Mystery (December 2022) |
Himself | |
| Castle Zinaida's Unfinished Chapter (July - August 2023) |
Tribin the Halfling | |
| IVS 2024 Prediction Event (September - October 2024) |
Himself (OPH.LUCA) | |
| IVS 2025 Prediction Event (September 2025) | ||
| Sprouting Nocturne (March 2025) |
Himself | |
| Echoes of the Summer (June - July 2025) |
"Receptionist" | |
| Forgotten Echo (Mentioned) (August - September 2025) |
Eccentric | |
"Prisoner" has been mentioned in the following documents for other characters:
Letters[]
- Guard 26's Letters (2022 & 2024)
- Mad Eyes' Letters (2021 & 2023)
- Mechanic's Letters (2021, 2022 & 2023)
Deductions[]
- Hermit's Deduction Quests (5, 9 & 10)
Backstories[]
- Hermit's Backstory (Character Introduction, Weibo Post & Character Trailer)
- Lanternist's Character Trailer
- Meteorologist's Character Trailer
The following resources related to "Prisoner" were, at some point in time, present in official websites or in-game after Identity V's official release, but have since been replaced. As such, they may contain details that have since been altered or removed from the character's backstory. Their related removal date will be listed at the top of their respective section.
Chinese Character Introduction[]
At some point between May 28th and September 18th, 2023, "Prisoner"'s character introduction on the Identity V Official Chinese Website was changed. At some point before October 3rd, 2023, it was changed back to match his character introduction on the global website. Below is a translation of the removed backstory.
| Former inventive genius Luca Balsa returns with his damaged brain. Those past events that shone with the light of wisdom were left in his mind with only the afterimages of memories that gave him a splitting headache. What prison life gave him was a huge amount of debt and the slander of "Thief! Traitor! Murderer!" This kind of dishonorable life was unimaginable in his first twenty years of life. He thought about ending it all. But every time he saw the faint flash of blue lightning around him, he felt that as long as he could complete that great invention, all the sacrifices would be worth it. Even if there is only a 1 in 10,000 chance. |
Character Relations Background[]
In June, 2022, an unreleased Character Relations background story for "Prisoner" was found in the game files. This backstory was changed slightly before its official release with the Character Relations Menu update on August 8th, 2024. The following is the previous wording.
| Luca Balsa was considered friendly and trustworthy by most people, yet no one knows where he came from or has seen his family. He's well-educated, prideful, and is tremendously curious about science. To no one's surprise, he became the assistant of the most renowned inventor in town. The great inventor thinks highly of Luca, and most people thought he would become the inventor's successor. Yet everything came to a halt because of an academic dispute. The great inventor claimed that Luca was an ungrateful traitor for stealing and selling his research to his competitor. Yet, Luca said the great inventor himself was the thief who had run out of ideas. No one knew what exactly went down as the great inventor died in an accident in the laboratory, while Luca suffered irreversible brain damage and was accused of murder. Luca was sentenced to hang, but somehow pardoned at the last minute. There is no turning back for Luca. His memory became poor, and he couldn't concentrate on his work. He can no longer conduct scientific research, and all of his savings went to the immense compensation for the inventor's wife. Nevertheless, Luca is still determined to complete his invention, but this requires a fortune. And so, he decided to take a gamble on the invitation, which promised an enormous reward. |
Deduction Summaries[]
These are unreleased summaries found in the game files in June, 2022. As the released deduction summaries were removed when the Character Relations Menu was updated on August 8th, 2024, these have since become obsolete and likely won't ever be officially released.
| Deduction 1: Tuning Luca's mother died in a fit of anger when Luca's father sold off her dowry to pay off his debt. Luca couldn't forgive his father and left home. Deduction 2: Calibration Luca offered a unique manuscript to become a student of the inventor, Alva Lorenz. Deduction 3: Overshoot The explosion in Lorenz's lab caused heavy casualties. The police speculate that Luca's illegal experiments caused the explosion. |
Canon Manor Game[]
We can gather who was in a canon Manor Game together by information in Letters and Diaries, and very occasionally from character quotes during events.
First Manor Game[]
| Serial # | Hunter Identities | Survivor Identities | Notable Events | Cutscenes Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mad Eyes (Observer)[MG 2] | no | |||
| Guard 26 (Designated Executioner)[MG 3] | Dismantled by Tracy and Luca[MG 4] | no | ||
| 10-0-1 | Tracy Reznik (Mechanic) | Dismantled Guard 26’s components[MG 4] Eliminated[MG 5] |
no | |
| 10-0-2 | Luca Balsa ("Prisoner") | Assisted Tracy to Dismantle Guard 26[MG 4] Had "murderous intent" toward Charles[MG 6] Escaped[MG 5] |
no | |
| 10-1-3[MG 7] | Charles Holt (Aeroplanist)[MG 8] | Eliminated[MG 5] | no | |
| 10-?-4[MG 9] | Wendy Foote (Meteorologist)[MG 10] | Eliminated[MG 5] | no |
Second Manor Game[]
| Serial # | Hunter Identities | Survivor Identities | Notable Events | Cutscenes Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-0-2 | Luca Balsa ("Prisoner")[MG 12] | no | ||
| Hermit[MG 13] | Alva Lorenz | no | ||
| "Disciple"[MG 14] | Ann | Eliminated[MG 15] | no |
Compiled Overview[]
Background[]
Luca was initially a nobleman until his father spent his and his wife's entire fortune on failed investments. This caused Luca's mother to "die of anger" while Luca couldn't forgive his father (for using up all their money on failed investments and possibly for causing his mother's death) and ran away from home. He eventually encountered Alva Lorenz at the Laiden Art and Industry Exhibit and, in exchange for giving Alva one of his family's manuscripts, became his student. Luca became focused on a certain invention while he was with Alva.
After many failed experiments in his laboratory, Alva claimed some of his manuscripts had gone missing, and he reported it as a theft to the police. It was believed that the stolen manuscripts ended up in a competitor's hands, and Alva blamed Luca as a traitor who had sold them, while Luca called Alva a thief who stole ideas from others as he had run out of his own. Soon after, Luca continued his own experiments. During one of Luca's experiments, a situation broke out between Alva and Luca[11] and an accident occurs, killing Alva and leaving Luca with amnesia. Luca was blamed for the accident and sent to Het Arresthuis, a prison situated in the Netherlands.
Left in prison with only an obsession to finish his greatest invention that he hardly remembered, he was acquitted from execution under mysterious circumstances. Additionally, he was released from prison by an unknown benefactor, and was sent an invitation letter to Oletus Manor, which he gladly accepted.
Events at the Manor[]
First Manor Game[]
Luca participated in Group 10's Manor Game, including Tracy Reznik, Charles Holt, the unknown participant[MG 10] and Guard 26 as an executioner.
Luca was the second to arrive in the Group, a few days after Tracy's arrival. They met and had a brief conversation. Later on, the two of them met again at 3:21 PM.
During the experiment, Luca and Tracy made several adjustments to Guard 26, especially Tracy, which annoyed and forced Burke Lapadura, the observer of the experiment, to fix and optimize Guard 26 multiple times. As the experiment progressed, Tracy started to question other participants' skills and true intentions. She also mentioned the "scene" being secretly cleaned up by the unknown participant. In order to maintain the results, she tried to join forces with other participants, including Luca, presumably in order to oppose Burke Lapadura and his Guard 26. Ultimately, only Luca managed to survive.
After the experiment, Luca's body was considerably injured, with his left arm being immobilized. His condition seemed worse, as the electric shocks made it harder for him to recall the events that occurred before his arrival to the Manor. It even made him pass out, leading to him seeing images of his father in his dream, who he deeply despised. Baron DeRoss told Luca that one more victory would result in Luca leaving the Manor along with the Baron's promise.
Second Manor Game[]
Afterwards, Luca was set to participate in a new Group with new participants. Eventually, he found Burke's hidden chamber and decided to utilize it, due to him being wary of the new participants, who bore the Eye of Darkness, one of which was Ann. He also noticed the presence of a man called the "brother in faith", who in fact was Alva Lorenz. As he stared at the recording device, Luca felt that man gazing towards him. However, the man eventually left without making a sound. The new participants were about to start a ritual, and that left Luca no time for hesitation.
Alternate Theories and Conclusions[]
- Some theorists think that Luca's mentor stole his inventions and passed them off as his own, while others think that Luca did steal some of his mentor's work in order to further his own invention for perpetual motion. Either way, a fight ensued, Luca ended up with the blame, and he was thrown in jail.
- It is speculated that Luca is part Dutch, as Hermit's 2025 Letter implies he was the "perfect candidate" that was imprisoned in Het Arresthuis given the fact that his father, Herman Balsa, met Alva Lorenz in school and Luca was famously accused of murdering his mentor in the Netherlands where he grew up. However, this is directly unconfirmed or unknown which prison Luca was transferred to.
- This theory can be further speculated or debunked in Hermit's Deduction Quest #1 when Alva left his homeland’s village and went to a different school in his 2024 Letter after his friend’s death.
References[]
- ↑ The description of his dish, Ajvar, reads: A can of red pepper condiment that reminds the traveling Serbs of their homeland. The other dishes released for Call of the Abyss V reference their respective character's nationalities. Additionally, Luca is likely based on Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor.
- ↑ These talents from his current Character Relations menu differ from the unreleased ones found in the game files in June, 2022, which were Mechanical Creations and Maintenance.
- ↑ His talents were previously translated as Knowledge about electric power, mechanical engineering.
- ↑ His likes were previously translated as Books, Music, Scientific experiments.
- ↑ His dislikes were previously translated as Loud Noises, instruments of torture.
- ↑ Backstory from official website - https://idv.163.com/character/index.html
- ↑ Translation by @IdentityV__Sub.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 Translation by jaesti.
- ↑ Luca's quote was previously: "Order: "Wisdom Firework"
Note: Science should not rely on magic, but if it exists, let me be the one to achieve the miracle of perpetual motion." - ↑ Translations by @fc_idv.
- ↑ In Luca's trailer, Alva looks like he was attacking Luca however in Alva's trailer, the opposite seems to be true.
Translation Notes[]
- ↑ Several other languages' versions of the letter have his name printed here as Lucas Balsac. No indication is given as to why he changed it, but it was clearly between the time of this letter and when he was sent to prison. At least one language has his name spelled that way in the university acceptance letter included in his deductions. - (Source)
Manor Game Table References[]
- ↑ The Character Relations Menu confirms this Manor Game location was Lakeside Village.
- ↑ See Guard 26's 2023 & 2024 Letters and Mad Eyes' 2023 Letter.
- ↑ See Guard 26's 2023 Letter.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 In Mad Eyes' 2021 Letter, it is heavily followed that Burke has been writing down this Manor Game's events on his machine recordings documented in Guard 26's Letters.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Based on "Prisoner's" 2024 Letter, Luca was the only survivor of this Manor Game.
- ↑ See "Prisoner's" 2023 Letter.
- ↑ Based on the information given by Mechanic's 2023 Letter, it is likely that he was the third participant to arrive at the Manor.
- ↑ See Mechanic's 2023 Letter.
- ↑ Note that this participant's experimental number is not confirmed yet, however it is highly likely that this participant was the last in the Group to arrive, given the information provided by Mechanic's 2023 Letter. Furthermore, the number "10-?-4" is only deduced based on aforementioned details, and does not represent the Manor's drugging progress on this participant.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 Confirmed by the group's appearance in Cage of Yesteryear.
- ↑ The Character Relations Menu confirms this Manor Game location was Lakeside Village.
- ↑ See "Prisoner's" 2024 Letter.
- ↑ Implied to be the "brother-in-faith" mentioned in "Prisoner's" 2024 Letter.
- ↑ See "Disciple's" 2023 Letter.
- ↑ See "Disciple's" 2025 Letter.
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| Character Navigation | ||||||
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THE SURVIVORS 
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Doctor (Season 0)
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Thief (Season 0)
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Gardener (Season 0)
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Explorer (Season 1)
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Mercenary (Season 1)
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Coordinator (Season 1)
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Mechanic (Season 1)
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| Forward (Season 1)
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The Mind's Eye (Season 1)
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Priestess (Season 1)
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Perfumer (Season 1)
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Female Dancer (Season 2)
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Seer (Season 3)
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Embalmer (Season 3)
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Acrobat (Season 6)
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First Officer (Season 7)
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| SEASON 8-11 |
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Postman (Season 9)
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Grave Keeper (Season 10)
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"Prisoner" (Season 10)
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Entomologist (Season 11)
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| SEASON 13-17 |
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| Painter (Season 13)
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Batter (Season 14)
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Toy Merchant (Season 16)
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"Psychologist" (Season 17)
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Patient (Season 17)
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| SEASON 18-22 |
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| Novelist (Season 18)
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"Little Girl" (Season 18)
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Weeping Clown (Season 19)
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Professor (Season 21)
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Antiquarian (Season 22)
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| SEASON 24-30 |
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| Composer (Season 24)
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Journalist (Season 26)
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Aeroplanist (Season 27)
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Cheerleader (Season 28)
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Puppeteer (Season 30)
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| SEASON 31-36 |
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| Fire Investigator (Season 31)
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"Faro Lady" (Season 32)
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"Knight" (Season 34)
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Meteorologist (Season 35)
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Archer (Season 36)
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| SEASON 37-41 |
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| "Escapologist" (Season 37)
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Lanternist (Season 39)
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Matador (Season 41)
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THE HUNTERS 
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| Hell Ember (Season 0)
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| SEASON 1-4 |
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| Smiley Face (Season 1)
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Gamekeeper (Season 1)
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The Ripper (Season 1)
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Soul Weaver (Season 1)
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Geisha (Season 1)
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| The Feaster (Season 1)
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Wu Chang (Season 2)
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Photographer (Season 2)
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Mad Eyes (Season 3)
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Dream Witch (Season 4)
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| SEASON 5-9 |
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| Axe Boy (Season 5)
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Evil Reptilian (Season 6)
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Bloody Queen (Season 7)
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Guard 26 (Season 8)
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"Disciple" (Season 9)
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| SEASON 11-16 |
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| Violinist (Season 11)
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Sculptor (Season 12)
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"Undead" (Season 13)
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Breaking Wheel (Season 15)
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Naiad (Season 16)
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| SEASON 18-25 |
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| Wax Artist (Season 18)
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"Nightmare" (Season 18)
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Clerk (Season 20)
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Hermit (Season 22)
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Night Watch (Season 25)
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| SEASON 27-34 |
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| Opera Singer (Season 27)
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"Fool's Gold" (Season 29)
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The Shadow (Season 31)
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"Goatman" (Season 33)
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"Hullabaloo" (Season 34)
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| SEASON 36-40 |
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| Peddler (Season 36)
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"Cueist" (Season 38)
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"Queen Bee" (Season 40)
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| IDENTITY SWITCH CHARACTERS | ||||||
| Novelist ⇌ "Nightmare" | Smiley Face ⇌ Weeping Clown | Evil Reptilian ⇌ Professor | ||||
| "Little Girl" ⇌ Journalist | Prospector ⇌ "Fool's Gold" | Acrobat ⇌ "Hullabaloo" | ||||
| Entomologist ⇌ "Queen Bee" | - | |||||
| STORY RELATED CHARACTERS | ||||||
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and many others... | ||||
| CUT CHARACTERS | ||||||
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| Female Driver | Graveyard Girl | Paparazzi | Slacker | |||
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| Ascetic Monk | Moon Face | Puppet | ||||
 "Prisoner" Navigation
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|---|---|---|---|
| "Prisoner" | "Prisoner"/Lore | "Prisoner"/Cosmetics | "Prisoner"/Gallery |
| Tool | External Traits | ||
| Transmission Box | Circuit Control • "Conductor" • Super Circuit • Obsession | ||
| Costumes | |||
| S-Tier (Gold) | Fugue for Dawn • Osamu Dazai • Paranormal Detective • The Viper | ||
| A-Tier (Purple) | Auditorium • Ben-Hur • Electrolysis • Graduation Day • L • OPH.LUCA • Rantaro Amami • Ray • Rice • Trembling Chord • Winter Cicada | ||
| B-Tier (Blue) | Boidae • Eccentric • "Hermit Crab" • Isle of Perpetual Motion • Mercè • Moon bound • Racing Mechanic • "Receptionist" • Silver Shell • The Zealot • Tribin the Halfling | ||
| C-Tier (Green) | Original • Worn Clothes • Gray Coating • Moldy Bread • Yellow Wall | ||
| Accessories | |||
| S-Tier (Gold) | Crystal Palace • Infinity • Osamu Dazai's Favorite Book | ||
| A-Tier (Purple) | Art of Science • Gloomy Ghost | ||
| B-Tier (Blue) | Electrical Relay • Handcuffs • L's Mic • Ray's Book • Still | ||
| Other Customizations | |||
| Graffiti • Emotes • Standby Motions | |||