"Someone will spread a rumor about a fountain of youth and a secret place beneath the surface of the earth where people live to advanced ages. Gobs of publicity will inspire a crush of humanity to scour Tennessee, Kentucky and Kansas, searching caves and caverns. Social media will describe the activity as tantamount to the California and Alaskan gold rushes back in the nineteenth century."
Holt looked concerned, not smug. "Our enquays are secure. Unscrupulous strangers are rarely allowed to enter and never in groups."
"Cameras on satellites see through water, all the way to ocean floors. They show every formation, every living creature. Such cameras could reveal the tunnel that leads to your birthplace."
"My homeland cannot be seen from above. Mater Nature provides an invisible shield and our security system keeps most undesirables from entering."
"Don't blame me if you are proven wrong."
"Never crossed my mind, but I appreciate the information. I'll tell our governing kew. They'll decide if security should be increased." Raising his glass, he swallowed a slug of water. "Do you know when it will happen?"
"Before Christmas."
