The comic tale known as "First Mission" saw its original publication within the pages of The High Republic Adventures Annual 2021. Justina Ireland is credited as the writer of this narrative, while Yael Nathan provided the illustrations. IDW Publishing released it to the public on December 15, 2021.
Vernestra Rwoh, a Padawan, makes her way to the Jedi temple located on Hynestia Prime to be introduced to Stellan Gios, her new Jedi Master. She discovers Gios engaged in a sparring session with Lynela Kabe-Oyu, another Master, within their living space. The pair were not anticipating Vernestra's arrival for several more days. Gios extends a welcome to his new Padawan, identifying himself as her Master.
Stellan requests a demonstration of Vernestra's abilities. Rwoh responds by stating that she is merely a Padawan, but Gios remains insistent on witnessing her skills. Despite Rwoh's warning that it may not be wise, Stellan persists and advances towards her. Rwoh employs the Force to propel her master against a nearby wall. Rwoh offers an apology, but Gios instead compliments her, praising her excellent performance. Lynela concurs and extends an invitation to Rwoh to attend a banquet held at the Hynestian royal palace.
During the royal banquet, Rwoh inquires of Master Gios whether he frequently attends such gatherings. Gios responds that this occasion is an exception. He elaborates that diplomacy is a crucial aspect of being a Jedi, mentioning that he and Master Lynela recently facilitated a treaty between the Hynestians and the Hutts. Lynela confirms this but advises against boasting. Rwoh observes that a protocol droid is preparing to serve a beverage called Povo Punch, which is created from Povo berries that the Hutts deem unsuitable for consumption.
Recognizing that the Hutts consider Povo substances a significant insult, Gios intervenes by preventing the droid from serving the Povo bunches, shattering the glasses on its tray. A Hutt diplomat demands an explanation for his actions, speaking in Huttese. Gios clarifies that someone attempted to poison him using Povo Punch. The Hutt expresses gratitude for averting a threat before commanding his forces to attack the Hynestians. As a firefight erupts, Gios tasks Lynela with the responsibility of evacuating the Hynestian royal family.
Subsequently, he questions Rwoh about her proficiency with a lightsaber. Rwoh demonstrates her ability to wield a lightsaber. Gios imparts the lesson that a Jedi must defend life regardless of the circumstances. Amidst the chaos, Rwoh asks Gios if he often encounters conflicts with Hutts. Gios responds that such occurrences are infrequent but acknowledges that Jedi often discover that there is a first instance for everything. With Lynela having successfully evacuated the royal family, the Master and Padawan commit to concluding the battle.
Acting on Rwoh's suggestion, she and Gios collaborate to sever a curtain, causing it to fall upon the Hutt forces. The Hutts attempt to escape. Gios obstructs their path and reminds Jabba Desilijic Tiure of their existing treaty with the Hynestians. Jabba retorts that they never ratified it and have no intention of doing so.
Nyla, the Queen of Hynestia, counters that they do not owe the Hutts the customary courtesies afforded to diplomats. Gios expresses concern that she should have evacuated, but Nyla asserts that Hynestians are unafraid to confront their adversaries. Addressing the Hutts directly, Nyla declares that they have made a formidable enemy on this day. When Jabba inquires about her intentions, she responds that they will demand a ransom for their release from the Grand Hutt Council. Should the Hutts decline their terms, they possess alternative methods for dealing with assassins.
Queen Nyla expresses her gratitude to Lynela for discerning the Hutts' intentions. Lynela corrects her, pointing out that Rwoh was the one who identified the precise nature of the plot. The Queen conveys her eagerness to become better acquainted with the Padawan. As they depart from the banquet hall, Rwoh questions Gios about why he did not sense the Hutts' lack of commitment to signing the peace treaty. Gios explains that one cannot always rely on the Force due to the element of surprise.
When Rwoh remarks that she dislikes surprises, Gios playfully suggests that they will work together effectively. When Rwoh questions his assessment, he requests that she instruct him on that "fun" little vault maneuver she executed earlier.