518. Contest

March 29, the day the great army set out on its campaign.

It was the New Dynasty's first military action abroad, and everyone from top to bottom took it seriously. The Empress herself led the civil and military officials to send them off and offered a toast on the reviewing stand with ceremonial wine!

The commander of the first division of the Imperial Fist—Dong Fuxiang; the commander of the second division—Tan Bacui, stepped forward first to receive their drinks and downed them in one gulp.

Both were old hands at the Western Expedition Army and were acquainted with Lu Yao, and Li Pei spoke a few reassuring and encouraging words.

Then came the commander of the third division—Fu Fangsheng, followed by the fourth division's Zhao Sanduo. Monk Ben Ming, considering himself a religious man, had not accepted an official position, but still exerted himself by their side.