Chapter 52: Meeting a Visitor_1

Here is the translation based on the requested formatting and guidelines:

---

The courtyard's scenery differed from what the three had envisioned. It was tranquil, yet seemed quite casual.

The pond and the surroundings were unremarkably unique, with no fluctuations of spiritual power, hardly resembling the dwelling of a Great Cultivator.

Mr. Zhuang was also not as they had imagined. Though possessing a strikingly handsome appearance tinged with the weariness of enduring trials, he seemed to lack the aura they had anticipated.

Aunt Xue's expression remained respectful, but she was deep in thought.

Before setting out, her mistress had shown her a portrait. The man in the painting stood with hands clasped behind his back atop a mountain peak, radiating the majesty of a celestial sword unleashed to its fullest. That imposing, commanding presence, a supremacy that could overshadow the heavens, was almost unbearable to behold directly.