“ | Robin! But you're... | „ |
~ Stark to Robin. |
Grantland Stark, or just refered as Stark, is the owner of Zenith Oil, orchestrated a series of thefts targeting advanced technology in Gotham, drawing Batman into a complex investigation. Lance Bruner, Bruce Wayne's adopted son, became intrigued by Stark, believing he was somehow causing trouble for Bruce.
At the same time, Dick Grayson encouraged the Teen Titans to befriend Lance, hoping to help him find his place. In the final confrontation, Stark set a trap at a tower, where he attempted to kill Batman using a high-pressure air hose.
Biography[]
Grantland Stark, the owner of Zenith Oil, was the mastermind behind a series of high-profile thefts that caught Batman’s attention. These thefts targeted advanced technology and resources across Gotham, and Batman’s investigation soon revealed a dangerous pattern. To uncover the full extent of Stark’s operation, Batman enlisted the help of the Teen Titans.
Lance Bruner, Bruce Wayne’s adopted son, had also taken an interest in Stark. Lance noticed Stark’s subtle disruptions to Bruce’s business dealings and became suspicious. Stark’s charisma and reputation fascinated Lance, who felt the man might hold answers to his own struggles with Bruce. However, unbeknownst to him, Stark was playing a more dangerous game.
At the same time, Dick Grayson, knowing Lance was struggling to find his place within the Wayne family, convinced the Teen Titans—Wally West, Roy Harper, and Donna Troy—to befriend Lance. Dick hoped that their influence would guide Lance in a positive direction and help him find his own identity.When Stark’s trap was finally sprung, Lance was lured to a tower where the final confrontation was set. Stark had promised Lance a reward, playing on his insecurities and desire for recognition. As Batman confronted Stark, the industrialist aimed a high-pressure air hose at him, intending to kill him. At the critical moment, Robin jumped in front of the blast, saving Batman but knocking himself off the tower.For a moment, Batman believed Robin was dead, but to his relief, Robin survived the fall, clinging to a lower platform. It was then that Lance revealed himself. Inspired by Dick’s selfless act in saving Bruce, Lance realized the true meaning of love and respect. He stepped forward, sacrificing himself to save Robin.
With his strength fading, Lance expressed his regret for not being the son Bruce had hoped for. In his final moments, he apologized.
Lance died in Bruce’s arms, leaving both Batman and the Teen Titans deeply moved by his sacrifice. His death marked the end of Grantland Stark’s schemes and served as a reminder of the cost of heroism and redemption.