After the initial shock of seeing her stats and testing her skills, Ji-woo was bombarded with information from Elara. The guide explained the basics of Aethelgard – its history, its diverse races, its unique magic system. Ji-woo learned about the different regions of the world, the various monsters that inhabited them, and the dangers that lurked in the shadows.Elara also explained the rules of the Ascension Games. The tournament was held every decade, and participants were chosen from across the realms. They would compete in a series of challenges, testing their combat skills, strategic thinking, and teamwork. The ultimate winner would receive a wish granted by the ancient deity of Aethelgard."A wish?" Ji-woo had asked, her eyes wide with wonder. "Any wish?"Elara nodded. "Within the bounds of reason, of course. But the possibilities are nearly limitless."Ji-woo's mind reeled with the possibilities. She could wish for anything she desired – wealth, power, fame. But as she thought about it, she realized that those things didn't really matter to her. What she truly wanted was… adventure. The chance to explore this new world, to test her limits, to become the best Soul Weaver she could be."So, what happens now?" she asked Elara."Now," Elara said with a mysterious smile, "we begin your training."Elara led Ji-woo through a shimmering portal, similar to the one that had brought her to Aethelgard. They emerged in a vast, sprawling complex filled with training grounds, sparring arenas, and magical workshops. This was the central hub for all the players participating in the Ascension Games.Ji-woo's eyes widened as she took in the sights and sounds around her. Players of all races and classes were honing their skills, their shouts and battle cries echoing through the air. She saw mages conjuring fireballs, warriors clashing swords, and rogues practicing stealthy maneuvers."This is…" Ji-woo stammered, overwhelmed by the sheer scale and energy of the place."Impressive, isn't it?" Elara said, a hint of pride in her voice. "This is where you will prepare for the challenges ahead. You will have access to the best instructors, the finest equipment, and the most challenging sparring partners."Elara then introduced Ji-woo to a gruff but experienced warrior named Borin, who would be her combat trainer. Borin, a veteran of countless battles, was initially skeptical of Ji-woo's Soul Weaver class."A support?" he'd grunted, stroking his thick beard. "What good is a support in a real fight?"But Elara assured him that Ji-woo was no ordinary support. She demonstrated Ji-woo's Mana Thread, showing how it could be used to both heal and bind opponents. Borin's eyes widened with interest."Hmm," he'd said, "maybe there's more to this lass than meets the eye."He proceeded to put Ji-woo through a rigorous training regime, focusing on defensive techniques and tactical maneuvering. He taught her how to dodge attacks, how to anticipate her opponent's moves, and how to use her Mana Thread to control the battlefield.Ji-woo struggled at first. She was used to playing offensively, relying on her quick reflexes and strategic mind to outmaneuver her opponents. But Borin insisted that she learn to defend herself, to protect herself and her allies."A Soul Weaver's greatest strength is their ability to keep their allies alive," he'd said. "But you can't do that if you're dead."Ji-woo gradually adapted to Borin's training, her agility and intelligence proving to be valuable assets. She learned to use her Mana Thread to trip opponents, to disarm them, and to create barriers to protect herself from attacks. She also discovered that her Soul Link skill could be used to sense her opponent's intentions, giving her a split-second advantage in combat.In the evenings, after her combat training, Ji-woo would spend hours practicing her healing and support skills. She would heal injured players, bolster their morale with encouraging words, and even use her Soul Link to help them overcome their fears and anxieties.She quickly gained a reputation as a kind and compassionate healer, earning the respect and gratitude of her fellow players. Even Borin, the gruff warrior, began to see her value."You've got a good heart, lass," he'd said one day, after Ji-woo had spent hours healing a group of exhausted players. "And a strong spirit. Don't let anyone tell you that support isn't important."Ji-woo smiled. She was starting to feel at home in this new world, and she was determined to prove that she could be a valuable asset to any team, even as a Soul Weaver. The Ascension Games were fast approaching, and she was ready to face the challenges ahead.