After taking a deep breath, Wei Zheng continued, "Your Majesty, throughout my life, I have often expressed my opinions and argued with you in the court."

"Back in Chang'an, it was out of a sincere public interest. As Your Majesty, the Retired Emperor, you shouldered the immense responsibility of protecting the country. As a minister, I, as your subject, had to do my utmost to point out the flaws and shortcomings in your governance, helping you achieve greatness and fame, ensuring the enduring strength of the Tang Dynasty, the peace and prosperity of the people, and the prosperity of the country."

"But after arriving in Xianyang, I, this old minister, have to admit that there was indeed some selfish motive at work."

"Your Majesty is young and promising, wise and courageous. You no longer need the nagging and admonitions of an old minister."

"And you, the Supreme Emperor, having experienced countless hardships, are more able to understand the painstaking efforts and loyalty of this old minister."

"Only by your side can I truly feel the value and significance of my existence. Only by giving you a few words of advice can I feel at ease and at peace."

"So, Your Majesty, I'm sorry for what I have done to you!"

At this moment, Wei Zheng seemed to have put down a huge stone that had been weighing on his heart for a long time. He spoke out the words that were buried deep in his heart without reservation, and his eyes revealed a sense of calmness after being relieved of a heavy burden.

Li Shimin kept shaking his head, his eyes full of sincerity.

"Xuancheng, what are you talking about? I am deeply grateful for your advice to me, whether it is out of public interest or private motives."

"If it weren't for your outspokenness and honest advice over the years, I don't know how many irreparable mistakes I would have made in governing the country."

"Every word of your advice helps me keep a clear mind and not get lost in this complex world."

"I can't express my gratitude to you in words."

Hearing Li Shimin's heartfelt words, Wei Zheng's tense nerves finally relaxed completely. He felt as if he had been freed from a heavy burden. He leaned lightly against the head of the bed with a relieved smile on his face.

"Just don't blame me, that's fine. Just don't blame me, that's fine!"

He panted slightly, "This old minister has passed away naturally due to old age. It is a natural thing that follows the will of heaven."

"Your Majesty, after this old minister leaves, don't hang white cloth, just hang red cloth. This is a happy occasion, a happy occasion worth celebrating!"

"Letting everyone have a good meal is the last thing I, an old minister, can do for everyone."

"But remember not to waste money. Every penny of the Tang Dynasty's wealth is hard-earned and must be used wisely to benefit the people and make their lives more prosperous."

At this moment, a loud noise suddenly came from outside, breaking the suffocating silence in the house.

Cheng Yaojin, Yuchi Jingde, Li Ji, and Li Jing in a wheelchair hurried in.

They all had worried expressions on their faces and their steps were hurried.

Pei Lingxuan stood quietly aside with red eyes, looking at Wei Zheng who was chatting with the emperor, and said softly: "Husband, they are all here."

Wei Zheng nodded slightly, his eyes revealing gratitude to his wife.

"Thank you for your hard work, ma'am!"

His voice was as weak as the buzzing of a mosquito or fly, but it was full of deep affection.

In these final moments, his love for his wife became even stronger and deeper.

Looking at this room full of old friends, Wei Zheng's lips trembled slightly. He stretched out his hand with trembling hands and touched his beard which had become gray and sparse. Nostalgia flashed in his eyes as he recalled the glorious years he had spent with them and the times when they had been in charge of the court together.

"Live on, everyone must live well!"

His voice was not loud, but it was firm.

"My Tang Dynasty is getting better and better now, but it's a pity that I won't be able to see that even more glorious day."

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