Forge of Destiny
Yrsillar
Ling Qi, a teen thief from the slums, is plucked from poverty when her talent to cultivate Qi is discovered and she is enrolled at the Argent Peak Sect in the Emerald Seas Province of the Celestial Empire. A pure xianxia progression fantasy that follows her first years as a cultivator, from outer sect trials and tournaments through the Inner Sect and beyond. The series emphasizes personal growth, friendship and community while foregrounding relentless cultivation, spirit arts, and political intrigue. Forge of Destiny (volumes 1-3) covers Ling Qi's first year at the sect; Threads of Destiny (volumes 4-9) continues into inner sect, war and empire-level politics. Originally a Royal Road web serial, now published as the Destiny Cycle (9+ volumes). Highly rated (Goodreads 4.11, 1274 ratings for vol 1) and repeatedly recommended as a top entry point to cultivation/xianxia.
Goodreads
Royal Road