Outsiders # 1 1993 Cover Alpha 1993 NM-

Outsiders # 1, published by DC Comics in November 1993, launched the second volume of the team's ongoing series. Written by Mike W. Barr and primarily illustrated by Paul Pelletier, the issue reimagined the misfit superhero team as fugitives after being framed for the slaughter of a Markovian village. 

Plot Summary: "Blood & Ashes" 

The story is set in the fictional Eastern European country of Markovia. 

• The Reunion: Former members Geo-Force, Katana, Halo, and Looker gather in Markovia for a ceremonial event.
• The Conflict: Prince Brion (Geo-Force) discovers that Markovia's security forces are being infiltrated by a vampire cult led by Prince Roderick.
• A New Threat: After a series of attacks, including a bomb and an ambush by vampires, the Outsiders are declared traitors to the country.
• Apparent Tragedy: During the initial confrontation with the vampire forces, Looker is apparently killed, though she is later revealed to have been transformed into an "undead" vampire herself. 

Significant Debuts 

This issue is a "key issue" for several character introductions created by Barr and Pelletier: 

• Sebastian Faust: A powerful magician and the son of the villain Felix Faust.
• Technocrat (Geoffrey Barron): An industrialist who wears a high-tech warsuit.
• Wylde (Charlie Wylde): A friend of Technocrat who is fused with a bear by Faust's magic to save his life. 

Publication Details & Collecting 

Collectors should note that this issue was released in two distinct versions, "Alpha" and "Omega," which featured different content. 

• Creative Team: Written by Mike W. Barr and illustrated by Paul Pelletier.