On that very day, a throng of people had congregated outside the Palace of Versailles, waving placards and rejoicing loudly at France's victory over the Austrian Empire.
Later that evening, when news arrived via Joseph that the Austrians had indeed agreed to the peace treaty in Luneville, Napoleon didn't waste a moment. He promptly shared the development with his wife, and without hesitation, he ordered their newspaper company to make sure the news was front and center in the upcoming morning edition. And as ordered, the tidings quickly spread across the newspaper's pages, capturing the attention of those gathered outside the Palace of Versailles, among countless others eagerly soaking in the reports of the triumph.
Standing by a window, Napoleon gazed at the enthusiastic crowds before pivoting to address the General who had shown remarkable prowess during the War of the Second Coalition. The assembly included esteemed Generals such as La Harpe, Ney, Brune, Berthier, Lannes, Desaix, Moreau, Grouchy, Murat, Perrin, Soult, and Leclerc, as well as Davout and Dumas from their exploits in Egypt. All of them stood proudly before the First Consul, with profound respect for him, even if not all were yet under his direct command.
"Let it be known, my Generals, that each of you has demonstrated remarkable valor on the battlefield, and you have my sincerest appreciation for your efforts. However, let's not lose sight of the fact that the battle is far from over—indeed, it's not won just yet. The British still remain entrenched in conflict with us, and they persist as the most substantial threat to our sovereignty and pursuit of peace."
"Our victory against Austria is a significant achievement, but it's only a step towards our ultimate goal. The British Empire's influence stretches across oceans, and their resolve remains unyielding. They have managed to thwart us on several fronts, and it's imperative that we don't underestimate their ability to adapt and retaliate.
"Our priority must be to consolidate our gains and strengthen our position. The recent triumph should serve as a rallying cry for us to further unify our forces, both on the battlefield and within our nation. Our military might is unparalleled, and our determination to forge a new era in France's history must burn brighter than ever."
"What should we do, Bonaparte?" Berthier asked casually.
"Well, now that the main threat in continental Europe is gone, we can begin reforming our military," Napoleon revealed. "You all will be informed of the new structure soon. For now, enjoy the peace we are enjoying right now. Dismissed."
The Generals saluted before making their way out of Napoleon's office. Berthier remained, as he was told the night before that Napoleon wished to talk to him about the military reforms he just mentioned.
"Berthier," Napoleon began, his tone more intimate now that they were alone. "I have been contemplating the future of our military strategy. We've achieved much, but there's always room for improvement. I want a more streamlined command structure, faster communication, and greater cohesion among our units. Our victories thus far have been remarkable, but to ensure lasting success, we must adapt and evolve. Let's take a seat."
Berthier nodded, taking a seat across from Napoleon.
"So, what reforms are you planning on implementing, Bonaparte?" Berthier asked.
Napoleon pulled a single document from a drawer in his desk and handed it to Berthier. The document was crisp and official-looking, bearing the emblem of the French Republic at the top.
"This, Berthier, is the outline of the reforms I have in mind," Napoleon stated. "It encompasses a comprehensive restructuring of our military, replacing traditional tactics with new ones."
Berthier accepted the document. His eyes scanned the text, absorbing the details of the proposed reforms. Napoleon leaned forward, his posture engaged, as he began to explain.
"Let's start by looking at the broader structure of the French Armed Forces. I think it's a good idea to create three distinct branches: the Army, Navy, and National Gendarmerie. This way, we can provide specialized training and deployment strategies that really fit the unique needs of each branch. Now, when it comes to the Army – which forms the core of our military strength – we should consider revamping its organization. To achieve this, I'm introducing a redefined hierarchy with the new corps system. This means that each corps will be self-sustaining and capable of operating independently if the situation calls for it."
Berthier's brows furrowed slightly as he absorbed this information. "So, the corps will have their own artillery, cavalry, and infantry units, all working in tandem."
"Exactly," Napoleon confirmed. "The corps will be commanded by the General of the Division, basically the best generals France has ever produced. All corps would report to the Chief of Staff, which is the First Consul, me. The detailed ranks and their respective functions and roles are in the document. They are long so we won't talk about that."
Berthier flipped a page, his interest deepening. "And these reforms extend to the Navy as well?"
"Indeed," Napoleon confirmed. "Our Navy will see its own reorganization, with squadrons and flotillas designed for swift action and dominance at sea. It will be commanded by the Chief of the Naval Staff, which I am still looking for a candidate."
"And what about the National Gendarmerie?" Berthier asked.
"The National Gendarmerie will be tasked with maintaining law and order within our borders. Every regional department of France will have its own Gendarmerie unit which is under the control of the prefects, the highest-ranking local government official. When federalized, they will answer to the Ministry of the Interior, ensuring a centralized approach to law enforcement and public safety. This reform will provide a stronger and more coordinated response to domestic challenges, for example, if there was an insurrection or rebellion in one of the departments.
"This organizational reform of the French Armed Forces would make everything easy, of course, this is not final as I intend to change some of it before we implement it, but I intend to implement this system before this year ends," Napoleon concluded.
"What do you want me to do, Bonaparte?" Berthier asked, asking his role in this.
"I want you to help me disseminate these military reforms to every staffer working in our Armed Forces. Get me a list of potential candidates for high-ranking positions in the Navy and the National Guard, and once you have done all of that, report back to me."
"I'll make this a priority, Bonaparte," Berthier affirmed.
"Very well, I believe that concludes our meeting. Thank you for your time, Berthier. Good luck."
Berthier stood up from his seat, holding the document in his hand. "Consider it done."
Upon saying that, Berthier left Napoleon's office, leaving Napoleon alone.
Napoleon leaned back to his chair and steepled his fingers, contemplating.
"Should I go all out in the military reforms?" He asked himself.
Sooner, the nature of warfare will change drastically with the prospect of the British and her allies managing to get ahold of their bolt-action rifle. Heck, this might be the last time he would command an army in the battlefield as it would be more dangerous when new weapons can snipe a person out from 900 meters.
Well, it's too early to determine.
Napoleon leaned forward and checked the documents resting on his table.
"Okay, time to return to work."
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