Red Lanterns # 1 2011 NM-

Red Lanterns #1 (Volume 1, published in 2011 as part of the New 52 reboot) explores the establishment of the Red Lantern Corps on the prison planet Ysmault and delves into the internal dynamics and motivations of its rage-fueled members, particularly the villain-turned-protagonist Atrocitus. 

Main Plot

The issue opens with Atrocitus, the leader of the Red Lanterns, reflecting on his origins and the all-consuming rage that defines his existence. While the Red Lanterns have become an established, albeit chaotic, force in the universe, Atrocitus is concerned that their rage is a mindless, unrefined force that needs direction. 

He selects a handful of the Corps' most coherent members—including Bleez (a princess wronged by the Sinestro Corps), Zox, Skallox, and the cat-like creature Dex-Starr—to form a smaller, more focused strike team.

Meanwhile, the character Bleez challenges Atrocitus's leadership, arguing that his methods of recruitment (casting rings to those who feel great rage) are ineffective and create a Corps of mindless beasts. Atrocitus asserts his authority, silencing her with the power of his blood-vomit, a core power of the Red Lanterns. 

The issue establishes two main plot threads:

1. A New Mission: Atrocitus announces to his hand-picked team that they will leave Ysmault to track down and punish all those who have escaped true justice in the universe, turning the Red Lanterns into a force that seeks vengeance.
2. Internal Turmoil: Bleez, left behind on Ysmault, plots her own path. In a backup story, it is revealed that a mysterious figure has been manipulating events behind the scenes, potentially targeting Atrocitus. 

Key Details

• Characters: The primary focus is on Atrocitus and his inner circle, introducing the core cast for the series.
• Creative Team: The series was written by Peter Milligan, with art by Ed Benes and Rob Hunter.
• Context: As a New 52 launch title, this issue separates the Red Lanterns from the main Green Lantern ongoing series and establishes them as a standalone, anti-heroic force driven by the raw emotion of rage.