No Leaks, No Brakes
MC has to be "primed." If you look up Google / etc "bench bleeding" a master cylinder you'll get lots of info. You need a way to keep the master from sucking air back in on the upstroke. There are all kinds of cheap tools for this, a kit of plugs, or a kit of adatper fittings with hoses, etc.
bench bleeding master cylinder - Google Search
Other than that.........
1...Bleed the system
2....Shoes may not be tight enough. For bleeding, until you are done with that procedure, tighten the adjusters up TIGHT so the wheels won't move. This locks the shoes in place and you can get a better feel for what is going on.