The fall of the Forbes Empire

Mr. Blackwood's gaze was glued to the endless ribbon of asphalt as his car glided through the gates of the Forbes Mansion. Thirteen years. It had been thirteen long years since he last set foot on this opulent estate, a monument to old money carved into the heart of Las Vegas.

He remembered the imposing iron gates, now adorned with gleaming biometric scanners that whirred to life and let them pass without a fuss. But he didn't need fancy technology to recognize or enter his childhood home.

Even from afar, the mansion held a powerful presence. Nestled amidst sprawling lawns dotted with ancient oaks, it loomed like a grand old king, its white facade gleaming under the desert sun.

Tall, arched windows peeked out from ivy-covered walls, whispering secrets of past parties and laughter. The driveway stretched on for what felt like an eternity, each twist and turn etched into his memory with the vibrant colors of childhood summers.

Tall pines, silent sentinels, lined the path, their scent fi