Six of these legions had already been sent to Macedonia to train, along with a large sum of gold for the expedition.[1] Octavius was sent to Apollonia (within modern Albania), ostensibly as a student, to remain in contact with the army.[10] As Caesar planned to be away for some time he reordered the senate[10] and also insured that all magistrates, consuls, and tribunes would be appointed by him during his absence.[11][12] Caesar intended to leave Rome to start the campaign on 18 March; however, three days prior to his departure he was assassinated.[5]