What is the main conflict in Captain Pantoja and the Special Service by Mario Vargas Llosa?

Captain Pantoja and the Special Service by Mario Vargas Llosa takes place over a span of three years, 1955 to 1958. The main protagonist Pantaleón Pantoja, has just been promoted to Captain in the Peruvian Army. A career administrative soldier, Pantoja enjoys a reputation as a straight arrow and an upstanding member of his country's armed forces. On the day of his promotion, Captain Pantoja meets with several high-ranking officers to receive the details of his next assignment. Pantoja is thrilled at the thought that the generals wish to personally give him his new orders and Pantoja is nearly beside himself with anticipation.