Chapter 59: A Day at the Races(Part-1)

Victor turned back to face Anthony, his expression unreadable. "I see. And how have you responded to these 'incidents'?"

"We've increased security at our stables and training facilities," Anthony replied quickly. "We've also implemented stricter protocols for our jockeys and staff. No one goes anywhere alone, and we've hired additional security personnel to monitor our key assets."

Victor nodded approvingly. "Good. But it's not enough. I want you to compile a dossier on each of our main competitors. I want to know everything about them - their finances, their personal lives, their weaknesses. If they want to play dirty, we need to be prepared to fight fire with fire."

Anthony's eyes widened slightly at Victor's words. "Of course, Mr. Mallory. I'll get right on it."

"One more thing," Victor added, his voice taking on a softer tone. "The jockeys, the stable hands, all our staff - make sure they're well taken care of. I don't just mean financially. I want to know if they have families, if their kids need school supplies, if they're struggling with medical bills. We take care of our own, Anthony. Always."

Anthony nodded, a look of surprise crossing his face. "Of course, sir. I'll make sure of it personally."

Victor returned to his desk, sitting down heavily in his chair. "Now, tell me about our star horses. How are they performing?"

Anthony's face lit up at this question. "Ah, our champions! They're exceeding all expectations, sir. Storm's Fury, in particular, is showing incredible promise. His times in training are off the charts. And Midnight Whisper, despite her rocky start, has really come into her own. I think she could be our dark horse if you'll pardon the pun."

Victor allowed himself a small chuckle at Anthony's attempt at humour. "Good, good. And the new foal? The one from our prize mare?"

"Lightning's Legacy?" Anthony asked, consulting his notes. "He's still too young for serious training, but our handlers say he shows remarkable potential. They're already calling him a future champion."

Victor nodded, a distant look in his eyes. "Lightning's Legacy," he repeated softly. "A fitting name. Keep a close eye on that one, Anthony. I have a feeling he's going to be special."

"Mr. Mallory?" Anthony's voice broke into his thoughts. "Is everything alright?"

"Anthony," Victor began, his voice carrying a note of curiosity, "I think it's time I experienced our racing ventures firsthand. As a common spectator, if you will."

Anthony's eyebrows shot up in surprise, his handlebar moustache twitching slightly. "Sir? You finally wish to visit ?"

Victor nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Precisely. I want to see how our operation runs from the ground level.

Anthony nodded, his mind already racing with the implications. "Of course, Mr. Mallory. When would you like to undertake this endeavour?"

Victor glanced at the pocket watch he pulled from his waistcoat. "No time like the present. Clear my schedule for the day. We shall depart in an hour."

As Anthony hurried out to make the necessary arrangements, the sound of his polished shoes echoing on the hardwood floors, Victor turned to gaze out the window. The racing world had been his latest venture, a way to diversify their interests and create a legitimate front for some of their less savoury operations.

An hour later, Victor emerged from his private chambers, dressed not in his usual impeccable tailored suit, but in a more modest ensemble befitting a middle-class gentleman. He had donned a tweed cap and a pair of round spectacles, completing his transformation from powerful businessman to average Londoner.

Anthony was waiting for him in the courtyard, similarly dressed down, standing beside a nondescript hansom cab. "Are you prepared, sir?" he asked, gesturing towards the vehicle.

Victor nodded, climbing into the cab with a grace that belied his assumed persona.

The journey to the race course took them through various neighbourhoods of London, from the elegant townhouses of Mayfair to the more modest dwellings of the East End. Victor noted with approval the location they had chosen for their main venue - situated on the outskirts of the city, making it accessible to a wide range of potential patrons.

As they approached the entrance to Newmarket, Victor was struck by the venue's appearance. Unlike some of the more ostentatious racing establishments, they had opted for a more understated elegance. The buildings were grand but not imposing, with well-manicured lawns and carefully tended flowerbeds.

"A pleasing sight," Victor murmured as they disembarked from the cab. "Inviting without being intimidating."

Anthony nodded a hint of pride in his voice. "That was our intention, sir. We wished to create a place that would appeal to seasoned racing enthusiasts and newcomers alike."

They made their way to the main entrance, joining the steady stream of people heading inside. Victor noted the diverse crowd - there were well-heeled individuals in top hats and tailcoats, but also working-class men in caps and jackets, young couples arm in arm, and even families out for a day of excitement.

As they entered the main concourse, Victor was immediately struck by the atmosphere. It was buzzing with energy, but not overwhelming. The space was well-designed, with clear signage directing visitors to various areas - betting windows, viewing areas, refreshment stands, and family-friendly zones.

Let's begin with the basics," Victor said to Anthony. "Show me how a first-time visitor would experience this place."

Anthony nodded, leading Victor to a kiosk near the entrance. "This is our welcome centre," he explained. "First-time visitors can receive a quick orientation here, learn about the basics of horse racing and betting, and obtain a map of the grounds."

Victor watched as a young couple approached the kiosk, looking slightly overwhelmed. The staff member greeted them warmly, quickly putting them at ease and explaining the day's events in simple, understandable terms.

"Excellent," Victor murmured. "No hint of condescension. That's crucial."

They moved on, making their way through the various areas of the venue. Victor was impressed by the attention to detail everywhere he looked. The betting areas were well-organized and staffed by friendly, knowledgeable individuals. The refreshment stands offer a range of options, from simple fare to more elaborate dishes, all at reasonable prices.

"Tell me about our pricing strategy," Victor said as they paused near a stand selling meat pies and ale.

Anthony pulled out a small notebook and flipped through the pages. "We've aimed for a middle ground," he explained. "Our high-end options are priced competitively with other venues, but we've made sure to offer plenty of affordable choices as well. We want people to feel they can have a full day out without emptying their pockets."

Victor nodded approvingly. "Shrewd. It encourages repeat visits."

As they continued their tour, Victor made mental notes of areas for improvement. The family zone, while well-intentioned, could use more activities for older children. The members' enclosure, while luxurious, seemed a bit disconnected from the energy of the main concourse.

"We should look into creating more integration between the members' areas and the general admission spaces," Victor mused. "Perhaps some shared viewing platforms or mixed dining areas. We don't want to create too much of a divide between the classes."

Anthony jotted down notes in his book, nodding in agreement. "An excellent suggestion, sir. I'll have our design team work on some concepts."

They made their way to the paddock area, where the day's racers were being prepared. Victor was pleased to see the immaculate condition of the stables and the obvious care given to the horses.

"Our staff seems well-trained," he observed, watching as a groom expertly calmed a nervous stallion.

Anthony beamed with pride. "We've invested heavily in training, sir. Not just in horse care, but in customer service as well. Every employee, from the stable hands to the betting clerks, undergoes extensive training in their specific area as well as general hospitality skills."

Victor nodded approvingly. "It shows. But let's see how they handle a problem."

With a mischievous glint in his eye, Victor approached a staff member, adopting the persona of a difficult customer. He complained about a nonexistent issue with his betting slip, becoming increasingly agitated.

The young man handling his "complaint" remained calm and professional throughout, patiently explaining the betting process and offering to escalate the issue to a manager if Victor remained unsatisfied.

"Excellent work," Victor said, dropping the act and smiling warmly at the surprised employee. "You handled that splendidly."

As they moved away, leaving the bemused staff member behind, Anthony chuckled. "That was a tad cruel, sir."

Victor shrugged. "Sometimes you must test the system to ensure it's working properly. He passed with flying colours. Make a note to commend him to his supervisor."

They continued their tour, making their way to the main viewing areas as the first race of the day approached. Victor was impressed by the layout - there were excellent sightlines from all areas, and the large chalkboards provided clear information on the races and odds.

The starting bell rang, and they were off.