Teen Hulk

Joseph Banner (a.k.a. Teen Hulk)

Joseph Banner stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and complexity of genetic science, a living legacy of the Hulk's foray into creating life. Born in the orbiting laboratory known as The Banner Nexus, Joseph's genesis in 2024 was no ordinary event; he was meticulously crafted from the DNA of various heroes, a blend designed to forge a being of extraordinary capabilities. His early years were marked by solitude and a relentless pursuit of knowledge within the confines of the Nexus, where he was surrounded by the remnants of his creator's experiments. This isolation fostered in Joseph an insatiable curiosity and a profound intellect, traits that would define his journey.
The destruction of The Banner Nexus in 2030 was a pivotal moment for Joseph, hurling him from the safety of his orbital cradle to the unknown terrains of Earth-618. Landing in upstate New York, he was discovered and nurtured back to health by a compassionate scientist. This period was transformative, as Joseph grappled with the complexities of his identity and the extent of his powers. His discovery of the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted in 2041 marked the beginning of a new chapter, propelling him out of isolation and into a broader society teeming with individuals as unique as himself. As Teen Hulk, Joseph embodies a blend of strength and intellect, a duality that reflects his unique heritage. His journey at the academy, filled with learning and self-discovery, continues to shape his understanding of his role in a world where the lines between heroism and corporate influence are continually blurred.

History

Genesis in the Nexus (2024)

In the year 2024, amidst the stars and the silent expanse of space, an extraordinary event unfolds in The Banner Nexus, an orbital laboratory circling the enigmatic planet of Gai'an's Refuge. Here, in this secluded bastion of science and solitude, Bruce Banner, known to many as The Hulk, embarks on a groundbreaking experiment. His goal is ambitious, to create a being unlike any other, a synthesis of the greatest heroes Earth-618 has ever known. This creation, a young boy named Joseph Banner, is the culmination of this endeavor.
Joseph's genesis is not born from the usual ties of family and love but from test tubes and genetic brilliance. His DNA is a tapestry woven from the attributes of heroes, each strand imbued with potential and power. In the quiet corridors of The Banner Nexus, Joseph's first moments of consciousness are filled with the hum of machinery and the vastness of space outside his window.
The laboratory becomes his world, a place of learning and discovery. The Nexus is filled with data, research, and experiments left behind by Bruce Banner, each piece a puzzle for Joseph to solve. He grows up surrounded by the echoes of his creator's genius, his days filled with the study of complex scientific theories and the exploration of his own burgeoning abilities.
Isolation shapes Joseph, but it does not confine him. His mind is a sponge, absorbing every piece of knowledge, every scientific principle and theory. He learns of Earth-618, its heroes, its struggles, and the role his creator played in its history. Yet, for all the knowledge he gains, a question lingers in his heart – who is Joseph Banner?
His world is one of stars and science, a place where he is both student and experiment. The Nexus is his cradle and classroom, a place that nurtures his intellect but starves his understanding of human connection. He grows up knowing the stars as his companions, the silent witnesses to his solitary existence.
In this orbital laboratory, Joseph's journey begins. It is a journey of self-discovery, of understanding his place in the grand tapestry of Earth-618. The Banner Nexus, with its cold walls and endless data, is the starting point of a story that will take Joseph far beyond the confines of space, into the heart of what it means to be human, to be a hero. This is the genesis of Joseph Banner, a being born from the stars, destined for greatness.

The Explosion and Descent (2030)

The year 2030 marked a turning point in Joseph Banner's life, a moment where tranquility gave way to turmoil. The Banner Nexus, once a haven of knowledge and solitude, became the epicenter of a catastrophic event. It was an unforeseen disaster, one that shattered the serenity of Joseph's world and set him on a path he could never have imagined.
In the depths of space, the Nexus, a marvel of science and a testament to the Hulk's genius, faced its demise. The cause was as mysterious as it was devastating. Perhaps it was a miscalculation in an experiment, or a failure in the lab's intricate systems. Whatever the trigger, the result was an explosion of such magnitude that it tore the Nexus apart, sending debris scattering across the cosmos.
Joseph, in the midst of this chaos, found himself catapulted into the unknown. The explosion was a violent rupture, a force that threw him from the only home he had ever known. He was a lone figure, hurtling through the void of space, a comet of flesh and fear. His journey was a blur of stars and darkness, a tumultuous voyage that stripped him of his bearings and left him disoriented and scared.
The descent to Earth was a fiery ordeal. Joseph's makeshift vessel, a fragment of the Nexus, blazed through the atmosphere of Earth-618, a streak of light plummeting towards the planet. His crash landing was in a remote, wooded area of upstate New York, far from the prying eyes of civilization. The impact was brutal, a collision that left him injured and dazed, lying amidst the wreckage of his past life.
As he lay there, in the embrace of Earth's gravity, Joseph's mind was a maelstrom of fragmented memories. Images of the Nexus, of his studies, and of the silent expanse of space swirled in his head. But there were gaps, pieces missing in the tapestry of his past. The trauma of the explosion and the journey to Earth had taken its toll, leaving him with a puzzle of his own history that he could not fully piece together.
Alone, injured, and lost, Joseph faced a new reality. The woods around him were alien, a stark contrast to the sterile environment of the Nexus. The sounds of nature were unfamiliar, the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife a stark reminder of his isolation. He was a stranger in a strange land, a being born of the stars now grounded on Earth.
This chapter in Joseph's life was one of survival and adaptation. It was a time for him to come to terms with his new surroundings, to heal from his injuries, and to grapple with the loss of his home. The remote forests of upstate New York became his refuge, a place where he could begin to understand his place in a world far different from the one he had known. It was here, amidst the trees and the solitude, that Joseph's journey on Earth-618 truly began.

The Kindness of a Stranger (Early 2030s)

In the early 2030s, amidst the dense forests of upstate New York, Joseph Banner's story took an unexpected turn. His solitary struggle for survival and understanding was interrupted by an encounter that would change the course of his life. It was here, in this remote wilderness, that he met a figure who would become a mentor, a guide, and a beacon of hope in his life – a compassionate scientist.
This scientist, whose name was Dr. Elias Harmon, stumbled upon Joseph by chance. Dr. Harmon, a man of intellect and empathy, was conducting field research in the area when he found the young man, injured and bewildered, a stranger in a strange land. The sight of Joseph, a being so clearly out of place in the natural world, piqued Dr. Harmon's curiosity and compassion.
Dr. Harmon approached Joseph with a kindness that was foreign to the young man. He offered aid without fear or judgment, a gesture that deeply affected Joseph. For the first time since his tumultuous arrival on Earth-618, Joseph felt a sense of safety, a glimmer of hope in the kindness of this stranger.
Under Dr. Harmon's care, Joseph found refuge in a small, secluded laboratory, a humble echo of The Banner Nexus. This period marked the beginning of his recovery, both physically and emotionally. Dr. Harmon's laboratory became a sanctuary for Joseph, a place where he could heal and explore the depths of his identity and powers.
Dr. Harmon was more than a caretaker; he was a mentor. With patience and wisdom, he helped Joseph navigate the complexities of his existence. They delved into the mysteries of Joseph's genetic makeup, unraveling the threads of his creation and the powers that lay dormant within him. It was a journey of discovery, one that allowed Joseph to understand the extent of his abilities and the potential they held.
This chapter in Joseph's life was transformative. It was a time of learning and growth, of forging a bond with a mentor who saw beyond the extraordinary circumstances of his origin. Dr. Harmon's guidance was instrumental in helping Joseph piece together the fragments of his past, to make sense of the Nexus, his creation, and the role he was meant to play in the world.
Together, they explored the realms of science and humanity, bridging the gap between Joseph's alien origins and the world he now found himself in. Dr. Harmon's influence was profound, instilling in Joseph a sense of purpose and belonging. He taught Joseph not just about his powers, but about the human experience, about empathy, compassion, and the complexities of the human heart.
This period was a crucial step in Joseph's journey, a time when he began to see himself not just as an experiment or a being of power, but as a person with a place in the world. The kindness of Dr. Harmon, a stranger who became a mentor and friend, laid the foundation for the man Joseph would become. It was a chapter of healing, understanding, and the forging of a bond that would guide Joseph as he stepped into the wider world of Earth-618.

The Laboratory and Self-Discovery (Late-2030s)

In the later half of the 2030s, Joseph Banner's journey of self-discovery took a significant leap forward. Nestled in the quiet, remote laboratory provided by Dr. Harmon, Joseph began to unravel the mysteries of his own existence. This chapter of his life was marked by intense research and exploration, using the remnants of The Banner Nexus laboratory as his gateway to understanding.
The laboratory, though modest compared to the grandeur of the Nexus, became Joseph's world. It was a place of sanctuary and study, where he could delve deep into the complexities of his genetic makeup and the extraordinary powers he possessed. The equipment and data salvaged from the Nexus were invaluable, offering Joseph a tangible link to his origins and a means to explore them.
Joseph's days and nights blurred into a continuous cycle of experimentation and learning. He pored over the data, piecing together the intricate puzzle of his creation. His genetic code was a tapestry woven from the DNA of various heroes, a complex and unique blend that granted him abilities far beyond those of ordinary humans. Understanding this code was key to mastering his powers and defining his identity.
This period was crucial for Joseph's intellectual and emotional development. He began to see the full extent of his abilities, not just as tools or weapons, but as integral parts of who he was. His research led him to experiment with his shape-shifting capabilities, exploring the limits of his physical form and the various traits he could mimic.
But it wasn't just about the physical. Joseph's journey was also one of emotional growth. The solitude of the laboratory, combined with the guidance of Dr. Harmon, allowed him to reflect on his place in the world. He grappled with questions of identity, purpose, and belonging. Who was he, beyond the sum of his genetic parts? What role did he have to play in a world he was only beginning to understand?
The laboratory became a crucible for Joseph's transformation. It was here that he forged his identity, not just as a being of power, but as a thinking, feeling individual. He learned to balance the scientific with the personal, the intellectual with the emotional. This time laid the foundation for the person he would become, shaping his values, his goals, and his understanding of himself.
As the 2030s passed, Joseph emerged from the laboratory a changed person. He was no longer just a product of the Nexus, but a young man with a clear sense of self. Armed with knowledge and a newfound confidence in his abilities, Joseph was ready to step out of the shadows of the laboratory and into the wider world of Earth-618. This chapter of self-discovery and growth was a pivotal one, setting the stage for the next phase of his extraordinary journey.
The Call of the Manhattan Academy (2041)
The year 2041 marked a significant turning point in Joseph Banner's life. As he approached his 18th birthday, a new chapter began to unfold, one that would take him out of the seclusion of Dr. Harmon's laboratory and into the bustling heart of society. It was during this time that Joseph first learned of the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted, a beacon of opportunity that would irrevocably change his path.
The Manhattan Academy, renowned for nurturing extraordinary talents and abilities, represented a world that Joseph had never known. It was a place where individuals like him – those with unique gifts and complex identities – could learn, grow, and find their place in the world. The prospect of attending the Academy ignited a spark of curiosity and hope in Joseph. It offered a chance to understand himself better, to explore his abilities in a new context, and to connect with others who shared similar experiences.
The decision to enroll at the Academy was not an easy one. It meant stepping out of the comfort and safety of the laboratory, leaving behind the familiar guidance of Dr. Harmon, and venturing into a world that was vast, unknown, and potentially overwhelming. Yet, Joseph felt an undeniable pull towards this new adventure. He recognized that to grow and evolve, he needed to embrace new experiences and challenges.
As he prepared to leave for the Academy, Joseph experienced a mix of excitement and apprehension. The laboratory had been his world for so long, a place of discovery and self-reflection. But now, it was time to step beyond its walls and engage with the broader society of Earth-618. The Academy represented a new beginning, a place where he could continue his journey of self-discovery among peers and mentors who understood the complexities of his existence.
Enrolling at the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted marked a significant milestone in Joseph's life. It was a declaration of his readiness to embrace his identity and his powers, to seek out his place in the world, and to forge new relationships. This decision set him on a path of personal and social exploration, opening doors to experiences and opportunities that would shape his future.
As Joseph stepped onto the campus of the Manhattan Academy, he was filled with a sense of purpose and possibility. He was no longer the solitary figure in the laboratory, but a young man on the cusp of adulthood, ready to engage with the world in a meaningful way. This chapter was a turning point, a moment when Joseph transitioned from the isolation of his early life into the vibrant, dynamic world of the Academy, ready to explore all that it had to offer and to carve out his own unique path.

A New Life at the Academy (2042)

The year 2042 ushers in a new era for Joseph Banner, as he embarks on his journey at the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted. This prestigious institution, nestled in the heart of a bustling metropolis, becomes his new home and the crucible for his continued growth and self-discovery. Here, Joseph finds himself in the company of other extraordinary individuals, each with their own unique abilities and stories.
The Academy is a stark contrast to the solitude of his previous life. It is a vibrant community of learners and teachers, all dedicated to harnessing and understanding their gifts. For Joseph, this environment is both exhilarating and challenging. He is no longer the lone figure navigating his abilities in isolation; he is part of a diverse group, each member bringing their own perspectives and experiences.
One of the most significant aspects of his life at the Academy is the exploration of his role in Earth-618. Surrounded by peers and mentors, Joseph begins to understand the broader implications of his powers and the responsibilities that come with them. He engages in discussions and debates about ethics, duty, and the roles of individuals with extraordinary abilities in society. These conversations help him to refine his own values and beliefs, shaping his perspective on what it means to be a being of power in a world that was both awe-inspiring and complex.
Joseph's experiences at the Academy also allow him to explore the practical applications of his abilities. He participates in training sessions and simulations, honing his skills and learning to control his powers with precision and purpose. These experiences are crucial in preparing him for the challenges he would face in the wider world, equipping him with the knowledge and confidence to use his abilities responsibly.
As he navigates his new life at the Academy, Joseph also begins to form meaningful relationships. He finds mentors who guide and challenge him, and peers who become friends and confidants. These relationships enrich his experience, providing support, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. They are a vital part of his journey, helping him to see the world through different lenses and to appreciate the diversity of experiences and perspectives.
The year 2042 is a transformative one for Joseph Banner. His time at the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted is a period of intense growth, learning, and self-discovery. It is here that he truly begins to understand his role in Earth-618 and the responsibilities that come with his extraordinary abilities. The Academy is more than just a school; it is a place where Joseph finds his footing in the world, where he forges his identity, and where he prepares for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.

Personality

Joseph Banner

Joseph Banner is a young man marked by a profound sense of curiosity and a relentless drive to understand his origins and place in the world. Growing up in the isolated environment of The Banner Nexus, his personality was shaped in the crucible of solitude and self-education. This unique upbringing instilled in him an introspective nature and a deeply analytical mind.
Joseph is characterized by his intellectual prowess. He possesses a natural aptitude for science and research, a legacy of his genetic heritage and the environment in which he was raised. His curiosity is not just academic; it's a quest for self-discovery, driven by the need to unravel the mysteries of his own existence. This quest often makes him introspective, sometimes to the point of being withdrawn, as he ponders the larger questions of his identity and purpose.
Despite his intelligence, Joseph grapples with the emotional complexities of his existence. He often feels like an outsider, struggling to find his place in a world that he was not naturally born into. This sense of otherness can make him appear distant or aloof, but beneath this exterior lies a young man yearning for connection and understanding.
Joseph's interactions are marked by a cautious curiosity. He approaches new situations and people with a blend of wariness and wonder, always analyzing, always questioning. His experiences have taught him to be self-reliant, but they have also left him with a deep-seated desire to connect and belong.

Teen Hulk

Teen Hulk, the alter ego of Joseph Banner, is a stark contrast to his human form. Where Joseph is introspective and analytical, Teen Hulk is a manifestation of raw power and adaptability. This form embodies Joseph's physical strength and resilience, a stark representation of the potential that lies within his genetically engineered body.
Teen Hulk's personality is marked by a certain brashness and impulsiveness, a reflection of the freedom and power he feels in this form. He is more outwardly confident, unafraid to take action and assert himself. This confidence, however, is not always tempered with wisdom, leading Teen Hulk to act hastily at times.
Despite his formidable appearance and strength, Teen Hulk retains Joseph's core sense of morality and justice. He is not a mindless beast but a complex being who grapples with the responsibilities that come with his power. This form allows Joseph to express a more assertive and decisive side of his personality, often acting as a shield for the more vulnerable aspects of his character.

Commonalities Between Joseph and Teen Hulk

Both Joseph and Teen Hulk share a fundamental drive to understand and assert their place in the world. They are two sides of the same coin, each representing different aspects of Joseph's identity. Their shared experiences, from the solitude of The Banner Nexus to the discovery of their origins, have shaped their perspectives and motivations.
At their core, both Joseph and Teen Hulk are driven by a desire to find purpose and belonging. They are united in their quest for identity and understanding, navigating the complexities of a world that is both wondrous and daunting. Their journey is one of self-discovery, a path that intertwines the intellectual and the physical, the introspective and the assertive, in a quest to understand the full extent of their being.

Relationships

Attributes

Powers

Teen Hulk, the extraordinary alter ego of Joseph Banner, possesses a unique set of superpowers that distinguish him from other gamma mutates. Here's a detailed list of his abilities:

1. Shape-Shifting: Teen Hulk can transform between his human form (Joseph Banner) and his Hulk form at will. This ability allows him to adapt to different situations, utilizing either his human intellect or Hulk strength as needed.


2. Superhuman Strength: In his Hulk form, Teen Hulk possesses immense physical strength. He is capable of feats such as lifting heavy objects (like cars) with ease, and his strength is a formidable asset in combat.


3. Enhanced Durability: Teen Hulk's body is incredibly resilient, able to withstand high-impact forces that would severely injure or kill a normal human. This durability extends to a high resistance to physical injury.


4. Regenerative Healing Factor: He has an accelerated healing ability, allowing him to recover from injuries at a superhuman rate. This power grants him immunity to most diseases and toxins, as well as contributing to an extended lifespan.


5. Adaptive Genetics: Unique to Teen Hulk, he can mimic the traits and abilities of others. This includes copying physical attributes like strength, speed, and resilience, as well as mental abilities like intelligence and perhaps even certain psychic abilities.


6. Superhuman Stamina: Teen Hulk can exert himself at peak capacity for extended periods without fatigue, allowing him to engage in prolonged physical activities, including combat, without tiring.


7. Enhanced Agility and Reflexes: Despite his size and mass, Teen Hulk possesses agility and reflexes that are superior to those of the finest human athlete, aiding him in combat and other physical activities.

Abilities

1. Intellectual Prowess: Joseph Banner is highly intelligent, with a keen mind for scientific research and problem-solving. This intellectual capacity allows him to understand complex scientific concepts and devise strategies in various situations.


2. Negotiation Skills: Joseph is proficient in negotiations, able to navigate complex social and diplomatic situations with ease. This skill is particularly useful in interactions with other characters and entities within your campaign.


3. Corporate Espionage Knowledge: Due to his connections with Earth-618's S.H.I.E.L.D., Joseph has knowledge of corporate espionage tactics. This understanding aids him in gathering information and maneuvering through the corporate-dominated landscape of Earth-618.


4. Underworld Connections: Joseph has access to an underworld network, including assassins and other covert operatives. These connections provide him with resources and information that are not readily available to the general public.


5. Shape-Shifting Control: His ability to shift between his human and Hulk forms at will demonstrates a high level of control over his physical transformation, which is a unique and valuable skill in various scenarios.


6. Adaptability: Joseph's unique genetic makeup allows him to adapt to different environments and situations quickly. This adaptability is crucial for survival and effectiveness in the diverse and often dangerous world of Earth-618.


7. Physical Combat Skills: As Teen Hulk, he possesses innate combat skills that make him a formidable opponent in physical confrontations. His strength and agility, combined with his resilience, make him an effective fighter.


8. Enhanced Learning Capacity: Due to his augmented genetics, Joseph has the ability to learn and assimilate new skills and knowledge rapidly. This ability is beneficial for his growth and development in various fields.

Paraphernalia

1. Remnants of The Banner Nexus Laboratory: Joseph has access to various pieces of advanced technology and equipment from The Banner Nexus, the orbital laboratory where he was created. This includes scientific instruments, data storage devices, and possibly experimental gadgets.


2. Personalized Gadgets: Given his scientific background and connection to The Banner Nexus, Joseph likely has personalized gadgets tailored to his needs and abilities. These could range from communication devices to specialized sensors or tools for research and exploration.


3. Protective Gear: To safeguard himself in various environments and combat situations, Joseph might have protective gear. This could include armor pieces or clothing made from durable materials, designed to withstand the rigors of his adventures.


4. Medical Supplies: Given his regenerative abilities, Joseph might carry basic medical supplies for emergencies, especially when dealing with others who do not share his healing factor.


5. Portable Computing Device: A high-tech portable computing device, possibly a remnant from The Banner Nexus, would allow Joseph to access databases, conduct research, and stay connected with his contacts.


6. Gamma Radiation Detector: Considering his origins and the importance of gamma radiation in his transformation, Joseph might possess a device to detect and measure gamma radiation levels.


7. Communication Equipment: To stay in touch with allies and contacts, Joseph would have advanced communication equipment, possibly including encrypted devices for secure conversations.


8. Transportation Means: Depending on his needs and the resources available to him, Joseph might have access to specialized transportation means, like a modified vehicle or a teleportation device, especially useful for quick movements between Earth-618 and other locations.

Notes

• Origin and Creation: Joseph Banner was created in 2024 at The Banner Nexus, an orbital laboratory. His genetic makeup is a complex amalgamation of various heroes' DNA, designed by Bruce Banner/The Hulk.


• Early Life: Joseph's early years were spent in isolation within The Banner Nexus, where he developed a deep understanding of science and his own abilities through the study of his creator's research and experiments.


• Banner Nexus Incident: In 2030, a catastrophic event led to the destruction of The Banner Nexus, resulting in Joseph being hurled to Earth-618 and landing in upstate New York.


• Rehabilitation and Mentorship: A compassionate scientist (Dr. Elias Harmon) discovered Joseph and helped him recover, serving as a mentor and guide in understanding his powers and past.


• Manhattan Academy for the Gifted: In 2042, Joseph enrolled in the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted, seeking to better understand himself and find his place in the world.


• Powers and Abilities: Joseph, as Teen Hulk, possesses the ability to shape-shift between his human and Hulk forms. He can copy traits and abilities of others, has superhuman strength, and a natural healing factor. His unique genetic makeup allows him to mimic others' strengths, speed, resilience, and other abilities.


• Connections and Skills: Joseph has connections to corporate espionage and an underworld of assassins through S.H.I.E.L.D. He is also proficient in negotiations.


• Personality Traits: Joseph is outgoing, a perfectionist, and eager to please his father figure, Bruce Banner. He struggles with his identity and place in the world, a common theme in his journey.


• Current Status: As of October 2042, Joseph is a junior at the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted, navigating his life as a student and a being with extraordinary abilities.

1. Josephina Banner:
   
   • Creation: Designed and created at The Banner Nexus alongside Joseph.
   
   
   • Unique Ability: Josephina possesses the power to dampen the abilities and powers of others. This ability makes her a significant figure in scenarios where overpowering characters or controlling situations involving super-powered beings is necessary.
   
   
   • Personality and Traits: Details about her personality, appearance, and specific traits can be tailored to fit the narrative needs of your campaign. Consider her upbringing in isolation and how it might have shaped her worldview and interactions.


2. Jonathan Banner:
   
   • Creation: Like his siblings, Jonathan was created in The Banner Nexus.
   
   
   • Unique Ability: Jonathan has the power to amplify the abilities and powers of others. This ability can be pivotal in battles or situations where enhancing a character's powers could turn the tide.
   
   
   • Personality and Traits: Jonathan's personality and other characteristics can be developed to complement or contrast with those of his siblings. His isolated upbringing and the discovery of his powers would have significantly influenced his development.

Both siblings were unaware of each other's existence due to their isolated upbringings in different sections of The Banner Nexus. Their discovery of each other and subsequent dispersal following the destruction of the Nexus are key events in their histories. Their current whereabouts and activities can be a mystery or a plot point in your campaign, offering potential for future storylines and character development.

Current Status

Student at the Manhattan Academy for the Gifted

Current Location

Manhattan Academy for the Gifted

Age

18

Circumstances of Birth

Genetic Experimentation

Pronouns

He/Him

Gender

Male

Eyes

Aqua (Blue)

Hair

Black

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

Vibrant Green (Dark, Brown)

Height

6'4" (5'0")

Weight

475 lbs. (102 lbs.)

Aligned Organization

Nichols Industries