With the coup complete and his position as First Consul secured, Manuel wasted no time consolidating his power. He knew that while the Directory was gone, France was still fragile. The political landscape was riddled with opportunists, the economy was in shambles, and enemies within and beyond France's borders were watching closely.
The First Reforms
Manuel understood that to secure his rule, he needed the people on his side. His first priority was stabilizing the economy. He implemented financial reforms, working with experts to establish the Banque de France, ensuring a more stable currency. By controlling the nation's finances, he could fund his future wars and keep the public content.
At the same time, he restructured the legal system. He began drafting what would become the Napoleonic Code, a comprehensive set of laws that would bring order and fairness to France. Unlike the historical Napoleon, Manuel had knowledge of how laws evolved in modern societies. He would create a legal framework that could stand the test of time.
Strengthening the Military
With France still at war with the Second Coalition—an alliance of Britain, Austria, Russia, and other European powers—Manuel knew that military dominance was essential. He reorganized the army, improving discipline and logistics. He personally inspected regiments, ensuring morale remained high.
His greatest advantage was knowing how history had played out. He was aware of the weaknesses of his enemies and the mistakes his past self had made. He began devising a grand strategy to ensure that France would not just win battles but dominate Europe permanently.
The Political Opposition
Despite his reforms, not everyone supported him. Royalists still dreamed of restoring the Bourbon monarchy, while radicals believed he was becoming a dictator. Political intrigue lurked in the shadows of Paris. Some former Directory members conspired against him, seeking to undo the coup and return to the old ways.
Manuel took no chances. Using a network of loyal informants, he uncovered plots against him before they could materialize. Dissidents were arrested, and those who openly opposed him found themselves either exiled or silenced. He was not ruthless for the sake of cruelty—he simply knew that weakness would lead to his downfall.
The Road to Emperor
With France stabilizing and his power firmly in place, Manuel began considering the next step. Napoleon, historically, had crowned himself Emperor in 1804. But Manuel had no intention of waiting that long. He needed legitimacy, but more than that, he needed absolute authority.
The people adored him, and the military followed him without question. He would craft the narrative that France needed an Emperor to ensure stability. Carefully, he worked with the Senate and key political allies to lay the groundwork for his ascension. If he moved swiftly, he could become Emperor years ahead of schedule—and with full public support.
As he stood before a grand map of Europe in his study, he allowed himself a small smile. The world thought they knew Napoleon Bonaparte.
They had no idea what was coming.
His empire would not fall.
It would endure.