Ultimately, after careful selection, the imperial court chose 5,000 capable and efficient individuals from the three academies, the Imperial Academy, aristocratic families, imperial relatives, and common people, and gave them the opportunity to join the army on campaign.

These 5,000 accompanying personnel were assigned to the Northern Army's reserve battalion.

As for the other young people who did not pass the test, they were assigned to the Royal Transport Corps to be responsible for the escort of logistics and transportation.

Throughout September, the most discussed topic, whether in government or among the general public, was still war.

In the past, war seemed to have little to do with ordinary people, but with the rise of newspapers and the propaganda of storytellers, even illiterate people could learn about some national events.

Although many people are unable to understand the deeper aspects behind the war, it still cannot stop their enthusiasm for caring about national affairs.

Even if it's just discussion or brainstorming, people feel like they're participating, which is a manifestation of cohesion.

While all parties were making intensive preparations for the northern expedition, an imperial edict issued by Changle Palace added a touch of spice to the tense pre-war preparations.

Under the cheerful guidance of veteran officials such as Hu Guang and Chen Fan, the selection of a daughter for the emperor was put on the agenda.

So, while people were discussing the war, they also gossiped about the selection of the empress, and even discussed when the emperor would bring a prince to the Han Dynasty.

When the news reached the palace and Liu Hong learned that the common people were so concerned about his private life, he could only shake his head and smile wryly.