"Father, I betrayed Jane and must go to restore my honor." Daria explained, hopefully couching the request in a way he would accept. "I hope you understand."
Doom was silent for a second before he gave a single nod. "A suitable plane, servo-guards and fighter escort will be waiting for you at Doomsport."
"Father, thank you."
"Proceed and return as quickly as possible. You are expected to maintain your studies."
"I'll have plenty of time on the flight over. We should be back within twenty-four hours." Daria quickly turned and rushed away.
Doom watched her leave. "I understand," he said after she was gone.
Daria looked out of the aircraft window at four television news vans and several cars parked on the other side of the taxiway safety line. She said, "At least there's only a few of them."
The butler said, "The American press is very persistent."
"Janos, they are. When they bring the ramp over, please go tell them I'll answer a couple questions."
"Yes, your highness."
"Hopefully it'll satisfy some of them into not following right away."
While waiting, Daria used the onboard telephone. "Jane?"
"Hey Daria. It's me."
"I just landed. Be there in less than an hour."
"You're kidding! An hour?"
"Once I run a gauntlet of reporters."
"I'll get my stuff packed."
"See you then. I better call Mom and let her know."
"Yeah, that would be a good idea. Later."
After Jane hung up, Daria dialed home.
Quinn answered, "Hello?"
"Hey Quinn, it's me."
"Daria?"
"I just flew over and I'm going to stop by in a couple hours to visit."
"You are?"
"I can't stay long, but, I've missed everyone…even you."
"Things haven't been the same…"
In the background, Helen said, "Is that Daria?"
Quinn said, "Yes, Mom. She decided to drop in for a visit."
"Quinn, give me the phone, please."
"Okay, here," Quinn said.
"Sweetie," Helen said. "You'll be here?"
"Yes, Mom. About three hours, depending on traffic and reporters."
"This is awful sudden."
Daria let down her guard a little. "I finally heard from Jane."
Helen smiled at the phone. "That's wonderful, dear. Is she okay?"
"Um…something happened, but I don't know what."
"Oh, my. Take care of her, we'll be waiting."
"Okay, Mom. Bye."
"Bye."
With the phone returned to its mount, she looked out to see the cluster of reporters on the other side of a waiting group of cars. A driver had just finished placing her travel case in the trunk of the middle car. Daria steadied her nerves and walked down the ramp and out to the reporters.
"Good morning everyone. Please, one at a time. I'll start with the woman at my far left and take one question from each of you going down the line."
The woman asked, "Are you really the daughter of Victor Von Doom?"
"Genetically, yes. I am the daughter of King Victor. And, I'm the daughter of Jake Morgendorffer, the man who raised me."
The next reporter said, "This is the first time you've left Latveria or been available to the media since the announcement. Have you been a prisoner?"
"No. I've been very busy studying at the Royal Academy and learning about the Latverian government and people."
"Are you really the heiress?"
Daria glared at the man down the line. "Please wait your turn."
He repeated, "Are you really the heiress?"
"I grew up in American schools. I know you should've learned to wait your turn in second grade."
The gathered reporters chuckled.
A black woman asked, "Why the sudden trip to America?"
"Visiting. I'll admit it was a spur of the moment choice."
A balding man said, "Dr. Doom is suspected of having a checkered past. Do you feel safe?"
"I have some of the best security available."
A younger man asked "How does it feel to be a princess?"
"I'm still me…but a lot has changed in my life because of it."
The chastised reporter repeated his question, "Are you really the heiress?"
"Yes. That's part of why I've been so busy. I have a lot to learn."
"How long have you known about your parentage."
Daria glowered at him. "One question, please. Next."
He shouted, "How long have you known!"
She scanned across the reporters. "Maybe I've been spoiled by living among polite people. If his rude comments continue, I'll end the interview."
The reporters on each side grabbed his arms and pushed him behind the line. One turned and said something to him in a harsh whisper. He gritted his teeth and stomped back toward his car.
Daria slightly smiled. "Next, please."
An oriental man said, "That was similar to my question. When did you learn about Doom being your father?"
"This summer. More details I consider too personal to answer."
Several more questions were asked and answered before the final reporter said, "How do you feel about some of the very questionable acts and aggressive polices of Dr. Doom?"
"How do you feel about the questionable acts and aggressive polices of any government? No government is without sin. Some day, the responsibility will be mine. Please come back and ask me then. Thank you for your time everyone." Daria walked to the waiting car and got inside.
The final reporter nudged his photographer, "Peter, did you get a good shot?"
Reed Richards studied the sensor display. "We have a clear signal. When she reaches a destination, we'll set down and talk to her."
All of the Fantastic Four rode in a flying vehicle called the Fantasti-Car. Seated at the specially sized driver's station was Ben and Reed sat next to him. Behind them were Sue and Johnny.
Johnny watched the end of the interview on a small television visible in the back seat. "Damn, she really burned that one reporter."
Sue said, "She handled all of them exceptionally well and handily side-stepped several questions."
"Reed, just keep an eye on those sensors. I can't help but feelin' that she's out here as bait."
From his place in the front passenger seat, Janos said, "Our embassy contacted this Ashfield Community's proprietor. She informed it that the students will be in classrooms when we arrive. We can go directly to Miss Lane's residence, cabin three."
"Good. I'd like to get in and out as fast as possible."
The three car convoy entered the art retreat's compound and stopped in front of cabin three. Robot servo-guards stepped out of the lead and trailing cars and stood watch.
Daria had barely opened the limousine door when Jane burst out of the cabin with a round, black suitcase in her hand. The black-haired girl grabbed Daria into a strong hug as soon as she stood.
Jane choked out, "Thanks."
Concerned about her friend's emotional state, Daria was speechless.
"Hey! Let go of me you goon!" Alison yelled as a servo-guard grabbed her.
The servo-guard's data link displayed on Daria's glasses reported that Alison was an unarmed intruder.
Jane yelled over, 'Get out of here! You've done enough to me."
Alison yelled back, "You can't leave yet! I promised those reporters you'd be here for them to interview you!"
Daria slowly walked to Alison. "It's probably a good thing I don't know yet what you did to Jane."
"You mean like kissing her boyfriend behind her back?"
"I regretted my actions, you obviously don't."
The abrupt change of the servo-guards to maximum alert on the display startled Daria. She told the guard, "Temporarily restrain her and let's go, now."
Daria ran back to the limo while the servo-guard bound Alison's wrists with a plastic handcuff. It placed her on the ground and moved toward the lead car.
Alison looked at the cuff, smirked and called to Daria. "Kinky. You're kinda cute; you don't have to run off so fast!"
A short distance past the gate, a blue flying car had parked near the side of the road. In uniform, the Fantastic Four waited beside it.
Daria hoped the thought controls from the glasses to the servo-guards worked properly. Reduce alert one level. The status display on each changed to "high alert."
Daria said, "Stop. I think they want to talk." She faced Jane, who was staring wide-eyed at the famous heroes.
"Jane, I'm sorry to dump you into weirdness right off the bat."
Jane weakly nodded. "Okay…but you've really got to fill me in when this is over."
"I'll have plenty of time on our way to Lawndale."
Daria carefully calmed herself and got out, walking toward the four. "Can I help you?"
Reed stepped forward and smiled. "Ms. Morgendorffer. May we speak with you?"
"That's why I stopped," Daria said in answer to Reed's question. "Based on your past encounters with my father, you either want to know why I accepted, want to talk me into leaving, or both."
"Very astute, Ms. Morgendorffer."
"To answer your first question, opportunity. Concerning the second reason, I've made my choice and I'm committed to it. You must believe I'm in serious danger to come out to meet me like this."
"We're very concerned. Those that become close to Dr. Doom come to regret it. He also uses any means he can to coerce others into helping him. Now is your chance to get away if he has."
"I'm not interested in getting away."
"You should. Ask him what happened to his mother or those he previously named as heirs. Doom has given each up in horrible ways."
Then you should know that what you're asking puts me at greater risk. "I'm being prepared to rule, not fattened for slaughter. But, thank you for your concern, Mr. Richards."
Susan Richards said, "Young lady, please. You don't seem to understand the risk you're taking. Think of your family and how much they will miss you if anything happens."
I am thinking of them. I'm the only real protection they have. "Mrs. Richards, I think about them as much as you think about your children." Daria gestured toward the limousine. "I have a close friend waiting for me in the car and I wish to visit my family before I return to Latveria. So, I'm a little pressed for time. If you have nothing else to add."
Benjamin J. Grimm grumbled. "Your adoptive grandfather would've been very disappointed in you. I can't believe that somebody raised by Mad Dog's son would have your attitude."
He was surprised at the sharpness of Daria's glance when she said, "That man was a psychopath who didn't even have the courage to raise his own son. Instead, he shipped my father off to a military school to, quote, 'make a man of him.' Years later, he didn't even have the guts to show up to my parents' wedding. I'm disappointed someone like you has any respect for him."
Not giving them a chance to respond, Daria stepped back to the limousine. "If you're not going to physically restrain me, I'm leaving." She closed the door and told the chauffeur, "Please continue to Ms. Lane's home."
That was close. I know father has been monitoring this entire trip and recorded that conversation. They must really believe he's got something planned that involves me and they may be right. But still, I get the feeling…
"Daria," Jane said with concern. "You look a little shaken."
"I just had to stand off against a group of superheroes who could've kicked my ass without any effort. I'm a lot shaken."
"It's…a good thing I didn't know that before. I would've been tempted." Daria sighed and said, "Very tempted."
"Alison wasn't worth it."
"Still, she…I'm sorry, Jane. If I hadn't kissed Tom…."
Jane shook her head. "Looking at it now, that doesn't seem so bad. You kissed him and ran away. And then, you were so guilty, you confessed the next morning." Jane fought back tears. "Alison and I were lovers…and she was also in bed with somebody else. When I found out, she didn't regret it at all. But you kept trying…and came out to get me. We're even."
Daria reached into a small bag and removed a wrapped gift. "Even."
"What's this?"
"I picked up a few things for people. Come on, now you can say, 'Somebody went to Latveria and all I got was this lousy gift.'"
Jane examined the crisp, clean folds of the package and smiled, "You didn't wrap this, did you?"
"Okay, there are some advantages to having a butler."
Jane was overjoyed as she examined the brushes and felt the bristles. "These are great. I mean real professional quality, not like the stuff I've been getting at Lawndale Art Supply. Where did you find them?"
"I'll introduce you to the woman that makes them. But remember, there's a price to be paid. She wants to see something you paint with them."
"Deal. Now, tell me what you've been up to, Princess."
Jane was worried by the look in Daria's eye that said, "Okay, but I can't tell you everything."
"That little girl's got a chip on her shoulder the size of my head," Ben said as he piloted the car to the Baxter Building.
Johnny said, "She sure didn't seem impressed by your hero, Ben."
"Hush, you two. Not all war heroes adapt well to civilian life," Sue said. "And she's no typical seventeen-year old."
"No, she's not," Reed added. "I think she really could be Doom's daughter and that she knowingly chose to be his successor."
Sue observed, "But she's hiding something. She didn't tell us the whole truth."
"She's playing a very dangerous hand. I just wish I knew exactly what it was. Is she naively hoping to change him, or is she his apprentice?" Reed said, and went back to studying more information on Dr. Doom's recent acquisitions. "I'm also concerned about the introduction of this friend."
"Janey? Whoa, is it that late already?" Trent Lane sleepily said from the couch of Jane's home.
Jane said, "Change of plans. I'll be spending the rest of the summer with Daria."
"Oh, hey Daria. Been a while. That's cool, Janey."
Daria said, 'Hi, Trent. How's the band?"
"Good. Gonna try out a new song this weekend. You two should hear it."
"Sorry, already have plans."
"Bummer."
"I'm gonna grab a few extra things from upstairs," Jane said as she started up them.
Daria asked Trent, "Seen the news lately?"
He laughed. "Why would I do that?"
"Just making sure things are right with the world."
"Yeah. Me watchin' the news would mean something's wrong."
"And it would take your eyes off the prize."
"That's right, you still get it."
"New song, huh?"
"Kinda based on you and Janey. Glad to see you two getting along again."
"Just took a few gut-wrenching revelations and a trip halfway around the world to get things straight."
"You're funny, Daria."
"Okay, let's roll." Carrying her folded easel and a box of art supplies, Jane came back down. "Trent, see you in a few weeks or so."
"I should be awake by then." He winked at Janey. "Have fun."
Back in the limousine, Daria said, "Jane, I decided I need to make another stop before home. I'd like to talk with Tom."
"Oh, boy. If you don't mind, I'll stay in the car."
"I don't blame you."
"You sure you're up to it?"
"No. But, there are a few things I'd like to say to him, now that I'm calmer."
"Loose ends?"
"Kind of."
Tom opened the door and was surprised. "Daria?"
"That's me."
"The news said you were in the US, but didn't mention that you were coming to Lawndale."
"I didn't exactly give them an itinerary. But you can bet I'm being watched and reporters will be here thirty seconds after I leave."
"I see you haven't been changed that much, though I do like the new look."
Daria momentarily looked at the ground. "I've changed in a number of ways, and not just the clothes."
"So…what brings you here today?"
"Tom, I wanted to tell you something. Some things have forever changed for me."
"Um…go ahead."
"I know we didn't date for very long, but there is one thing about you that will stay special for me."
"What's that?"
"You're the one guy I can be certain was interested in me for who I am, not what I am or what they can get out of me. I'm afraid that doubt will be in my mind from now on."
"Daria…I'm sorry. I know why I liked you. Anyone who can't see that…it's their loss."
Daria carefully kissed his cheek. "I'm going to remember that and not how things ended. Tom, I do hope the best for you."
Tom shuffled his feet. "Daria…I hope the best for you."
The street on both sides of the Morgendorffer house was cluttered with broadcast vans, cars and all sorts of media people. Daria watched through the car window. "I guess this part of the trip wasn't hard for them to figure out."
Jane looked around in wonder. "So this is what a media circus looks like from the inside."
"Yeah, this is a lot bigger than the one that met me at the airport." She studied the thick crowd gathering. "Jane, this is going to be tricky. I'll throw them a few bones. You can go straight in if you want."
"Mind if I watch? I just had a great visual of watching a school of hungry piranhas coming at the viewer."
"Be very careful of what you say, please."
Daria's tone was clear. Jane said, "I will."
Closer, Daria could see that security guards had secured the perimeter of the property. Thanks, Father.
The servo-guard displays on her glasses showed that they were in communication with the guards.
The limo pulled into the driveway and the escort cars took up blocking positions on either side of the driveway. Daria was a little relieved that the guards stayed inside.
With Janos, Daria and Jane rushed to the door. There, Daria turned to face the reporters. "I'll answer a couple questions, but I really want to see my family."
"Who's that with you?" A reporter called from the crowd.
"My best friend, Jane and my butler, Janos."
"Rumors have started today that you and this Ms. Lane were lovers. Any comment?"
Daria kept a straight face. "No, we're not, nor have we been."
"Is this the Jane mentioned by Thomas Sloane in his Newstime interview?"
Daria nodded. "Yes. Before you ask, events happened as he stated. He took more of the blame than he should. Tom and I share guilt in what happened. If you will excuse us, please."
They went inside while the reporters waited in frustration.
Daria was immediately smothered by her mother, who said, "Welcome home, Sweetie." Abruptly, Helen paled and stepped back, pushing her fingers against Daria's shoulder holster.
Taking Helen's hand, Daria looked down and said, "Yes, it is. I know you don't like them, I'll take it off and not wear it until I leave."
Concerned, Helen said, "Thanks. Are things that bad for you?"
"The potential, yes."
"Gawd, Daria. Where's your tiara?" Quinn said with a teasing grin.
Surprised at being pleased to hear her sister's voice, Daria said, "It's a coronet, and I only wear it on formal occasions."
"I can at least say one thing for that Doom guy." Quinn pulled on Daria's sleeve. "He finally got you wearing something presentable."
"Sometimes, you just have to sell out."
"And that coronation gown. You looked hot in that. Half the guys in Lawndale were drooling over you." Quinn turned her head slightly up and to the side. "Mind you, I would've had all of them."
"Good to see some things haven't changed."
"And a butler." Quinn grinned. "We really could use a cute butler around here."
"Yep, haven't changed a bit."
Daria stepped past them to Jake, who was holding back. Turning slightly so the holster wouldn't press into him, she gave him a hug. "Dad, I've missed you."
Tentative, he hugged her back. "Really?"
"Yes. You'll always be my Dad."
"I was…"
"You're the one who changed my diapers as a baby and put up with me using Shakespearean insults in eighth grade. You are the one who loved me and cared for me. I've always known that."
He hugged her tighter. "Kiddo. You're the best."
"This reminds me," Daria said holding up a slice of pizza. "Janos, somebody in that kitchen has to learn to make pizza."
Jane looked shocked. "Wait. You've gone over a month without pizza? No wonder you were cranky enough to stand down the Fantastic Four."
"Daria!" Helen spouted.
Daria sighed. "They wanted to talk, so we talked."
Helen queried, "About?"
"They had concerns about my father's plans. "
"Concerns? According to some, he has…a reputation."
"Yes, he does. He's ruthless and demanding, but he also cares greatly for his country and his people. He's done things I don't agree with, but so has every other country I can think of." I wish I could tell you everything instead of that line. But almost anything on me could be bugged, and I don't know how much he's bugged this house.
"And that gun…do you have to have it?"
"Along with guards, body armor and security protocols. All part of what's needed to protect a future head of state."
"I still don't like it."
"I wish I didn't have to, either. But it's a reality I've had to accept." Time to change the subject. "At least Artie didn't deliver the pizza."
Jane chuckled. "I can see him on Sick, Sad World, warning us about the Alien Love Princess."
"You know, Daria," Quinn said, "Being a princess will make you a major guy magnet. You can have your choice of really cute boys."
"And if I can toss a few your direction…"
Quinn strangely blushed.
"Hey, don't forget about me!" Jane pushed on Daria's shoulder. "But I'm not greedy, one or two a month will be enough."
Daria made a face at both. "I suppose you two could keep them busy while I study."
Quinn leaned forward. "Daria! The idea is for you to have a little fun."
A faint shadow fell over Daria's mood. "Quinn, I…I'll try to remember that."
"I wish you didn't have to leave so soon," Helen said. "You've only been here a few hours."
Daria accepted the hug from her mother. "I promised I'd be back within twenty-four hours." She stepped back. "I've got a lot of studying to do. I wasn't kidding about how hard I've been working."
"I see." Helen's face dropped as she thought of something. "What are you going to do about school next month?"
"I don't know yet. I can't go back to Lawndale High. All the publicity around me will be a distraction." Daria watched Quinn. "It's probably also going to be a problem for Quinn. We need to consider someplace else, like Fielding Prep."
Jane's shoulders sagged. "Dammit. I hadn't thought of that. What am I going to do at Lawndale by myself?"
"We'll think of something," Daria said.
"Fielding?" Quinn whined. "Where they put all…" She quietly said, "Maybe Dav…" Quinn caught herself and said, "…all those rich boys."
"Yeah, right." Isn't her tutor named David? I wonder…damn. I wish I did have more time.
"You know, Daria. A fashion consultant would really make things easy for you."
"I might consider that…after you graduate."
"Really?"
"With good grades."
Quinn grinned. "You'll see."
Jake grabbed Daria. "Be safe, Kiddo. Come back and see ol' Dad."
Daria openly smiled. "I will."
Helen stepped closer. "And thanks again for the lovely presents. I'll make sure Amy and the rest get theirs."
"Thanks for taking care of it.
"And…for the…"
"Like I said, I want a picture of Eric's face."
She also hugged Daria, gently crying. "Please be careful. I really do worry about you."
"I worry about you too, Mom. I promise to be careful. Good bye. I'll stop by again as soon as I can."
Jane stretched out on the long couch with her hands behind her head. "It's good to be princess. Jet escort and everything. This is one cool plane."
Daria sat upright. "It's nice. Jane, I was serious what I told you before. When you see any signs that say off-limits or anything like that, believe it. It may not matter that you're my friend."
Jane swung her legs over and sat up. "You're really worried about this."
"I know how you like to flaunt rules. Latveria is a place where you can't do that."
Jane made a good-natured jab. "You mean Ms. Li would be happy there?"
"Ms. Li's so corrupt; they might give her a cell on the third sub-basement of the dungeon. If she behaves."
"That's one plus for the place. But, a dungeon?"
"An underground, high-security prison. Things like corruption and bribery are not tolerated and prosecuted vigorously."
"Okay, I'll behave. You seem to really need a friend."
"You know me very well. Jane, I thought I was mature before. However, I've had to grow up a lot more than I thought possible. I need you."
"Gee, that made my ego feel real good."
"Like it needed any more."
Jane leaned forward. "After Ashfield…yes, it does."
"Fine. By the way, make sure you change before we land. Those shorts are right out for women in Latveria."
"I'm gonna have a hard time running in a skirt."
"I think sweatpants will be fine for that, as long as you stay…discreet."
Jane moved close to Daria and whispered, "You're scared, aren't you?"
Daria nodded. "My father doesn't tolerate failure and he has some nasty enemies." She looked at the floor. Or anything he views as disloyal. "Dammit. I shouldn't have gotten you involved." Daria looked up. "Promise me, if anything, and I mean anything, happens, you'll keep your head down and stay alive."
Okay - one thing - serious thing - that's always bothered me. Daria's gotten pretty comfortable very quickly referring to Doom as 'my father'. Shouldn't she have a bit of hesitation, every now and then?
"Daria, I'll stay with you."
"Please, stay alive. Promise me."
"Daria."
"Promise me."
"Okay. Okay, I promise I'll keep low and stay alive."
"Good."
They sat in silence for a while before Jane said, "So, you're studying. What am I going to do?"
"The Royal Academy has an art faculty. I'm sure you'll have to show your talent to get accepted, but that shouldn't be a problem."
"Certainly a step up from Daniel Dotson."
"From what you've said, an untrained chimp would be a step up from him."
"He's a head of state and can't always drop everything. I'm not surprised he isn't here to greet us." Daria told Jane while they walked along the battlements of Castle Doom.
"I can see that. Got to admit, you have a great view from up here. And damn, your 'personal residence.' Quinn would kill for that much closet space."
"And would probably still run out."
"Oh, I'm sure you don't enjoy that giant bathtub."
"I have to plead guilty to that."
Jane was still laughing when Daria opened the doors to the guest quarters. Jane stopped and stared. "Daria, this place is huge."
"Which means it'll be harder for you to completely cover the floor with dirty laundry."
"Wow. I mean…wow." Jane wandered in. "For just me?"
"Just you." Daria yawned. "Ugh, I'm gonna feel like crap all day. The driver will be ready in an hour or so to take us to the Academy."
"I was hoping to go to bed. Man, this time difference sucks."
In his study, along with Reed and Ben, Stephen Strange re-read a passage in an ancient mystic text and cross-checked with a computer monitor showing a night sky plot. "Eight days. We have eight days until the star and planet alignment Doom needs to open his portal."
Ben said, "Whatever it is, we can't let him do it."
Reed said, "No, we can't. The risk is too great. But stopping Doom means facing him at his castle."
Ben loudly cracked his knuckles. "Hey, I think the place could use a little remodeling."
Jane bit a fingernail as the middle-aged professor carefully studied her painting, a quick abstract of a woman breaking out of a box.
Next, the woman examined Jane's art supply case. She closely looked at the new brushes and set them aside. She picked up the rest and tossed it across the room. She said in a German accent, "Brushes good. Paint garbage. Teach you to work with real paint."
"I'm in?"
"Have potential. Need much work."
"Cool!"
Jane took a break from her dinner and massaged her hand. "They say that making your own gives you a real appreciation of paints and pigments. But by now, I'd have thought they'd come up with something better than a mortar and pestle."
"Hey, I never really thought I'd be in a class that uses The Prince as a textbook." Let alone one that uses it as the "beginners" text. "But it's good to know what people may try to use against me."
"So you're not planning on using it yourself?"
"I hope I don't have to."
Jane ate some more of her meal. "Mmm. I could get used to this." Jane wagged her fork at Daria. "Okay, now that I see what you've been eating instead of pizza, why haven't you put on some weight?"
"Later tonight, you're welcome to join my martial arts training."
"Tonight? Damn girl, you don't have much down time, do you?"
"I've got a lot to learn."
"And it sounds like a short amount of time to do it."
Daria set her fork down. "Maybe. There are times I get the feeling I'll be taking over sooner than later."
"Good evening," Dr. Doom said as he opened the door to Daria's apartment.
Daria rose and whispered to Jane, "Stand up."
Jane followed and waited. Doom stopped across the table from her. "So you are the Jane Lane my daughter has talked about. I take it she has restored honor with you over her prior actions."
"Uh…yes sir."
"You were accepted into the Academy. I'm impressed. Rest assured that was entirely on your merits."
"It means a lot to hear that."
"However, Miss Lane. Your attire is not appropriate for a royal guest. Suitable clothing will be delivered before you depart for the Academy tomorrow morning."
"Thanks."
He turned to Daria. "You accomplished your goal without compromising your studies. I'm pleased."
"Yes, Father."
"And showed loyalty and honor to those important to you. Something you should never forget."
"I hope I've learned my lesson."
"You also handled the encounter with Dr. Richards and his followers with skill. You'll do well when it is time to lead."
"Thanks."
"Good evening. I must attend to other matters now."
Seated at the end of a conference table and dressed in a formal gown, Daria told the American representative, "Ambassador Ramos, as you can see, Jane is fine."
Fitted in a red blouse and black skirt, Jane waved and said, "They're feeding me real good. New clothes, too."
He nodded and said, 'How can we be certain that she can leave at any time?"
Daria folded her hands together. "Any delay would be yours. Jane can leave whenever she wishes, but until you provide a passport, she can't return to the U.S."
"She shouldn't have left without one."
"She's my best friend and asked for help. I acted on impulse."
"You took her out of the country without her parents' permission."
"Without permission? Are you certain?"
"What do you mean?"
"Are you really certain? Has anyone directly talked to either of her parents?"
"We haven't been able to locate them. Something very suspicious."
Jane said, "Something very like them. Look, when Mom and Dad aren't around, my brother Trent's responsible for me. After I had an accident last summer, we got him a Power of Attorney to sign things for me that require their signature. Did you talk to him?"
Daria remembered the incident. Only way we kept Family Services from hauling you off to a foster home.
Mr. Ramos tapped his pen on the table. "The report says that when somebody was finally able to wake him, he said that you were staying with Ms. Morgen…"
Daria raised her hand.
He continued, "…Princess Daria and that things were, 'cool.'"
Daria nodded. "So the person who formally has guardianship of Jane in her parents absence told you where she was and that it was acceptable. Ambassador Ramos, please process the application for Ms. Lane and deliver her passport here as soon as possible. I took an impetuous step and wish to have things in order as quickly as possible."
"We will expedite the passport, Princess."
"Thank you. By all outside appearances, your concern was warranted and we appreciate that you made the effort to ensure her safety."
The ambassador closed his briefcase. "Thank you for time, Princess. Your patience in this matter is also appreciated.
After he left, Jane said, "Damn. You've gotten good at this."
"I better. Dealing with ambassadors is a basic job skill for what I'm being trained for."
Susan walked away from the Lane house rubbing her temples. "It's scary that some people willingly listen to that music."
Reed said, "He seemed to think that song was a compliment of his sister and the princess's friendship."
"It would be a testament to Princess Daria's friendship if she put up with that singing."
Ben lightly tapped Johnny's shoulder. "Stop hummin' that song. I'm trying to get it out of my head."
"Hey, it has a catchy tune and I like it," Johnny said in reply. "Freakin' Friends. Sounds like the two of us."
"Maybe that I'm freakin' crazy to put up with you."
"She's right over here." Daria pointed as she stepped out of the limousine near the market square.
Jane carried a wrapped painting as she followed, while the driver stayed a short distance behind. She looked around at the different vendors and said, "Penny would love it here…until she opened her mouth."
The brush-maker politely bowed when Daria reached her booth. Daria nodded and said in Latverian, "Good afternoon." She touched Jane's shoulder and said, "My friend."
Jane uncovered the painting, showing a still life of Daria's coronet resting on a stack of two books, with a third open beside them.
The lady looked at it and nodded. "Brushes, good home."
Jane looked at the other booths. "Daria, I just thought of something. I've got about three bucks in American money on me."
"The Academy provides stipends to students. You need to check on how much yours is."
"They pay students to go to school?"
"The University and the Academy are fully government funded. Students don't pay tuition and receive a stipend for living expenses. The idea is for them to spend time studying instead of working a minimum wage job."
"I'll take it."
"Until then, it won't break the bank for me to cover you."
Jane grinned. "Speaking of banks, the old Montana Cabin Fund must be bursting at the seams by now."
Daria stopped and let out a small smile. "I might have to check into some real estate."
"They were about as close as friends can get," Tom told Reed. "I'm glad that they've patched things up."
"Would you say that they are the most important people in each other's lives?" Reed asked.
"Definitely."
Sue said, "I hope this isn't too personal. What kind of girl is Daria?"
"Smart, insightful, funny, and holds herself to a high standard."
"But sometimes, she doesn't keep to them." Reed said, "According to your interview."
"I suppose. But really, I put her in the position."
"And she could've backed away from it."
"Well…yes."
"Thank you, Thomas. Your assistance has been useful. I need to be going."
"Are Daria and Jane in trouble?"
When he didn't get an answer, Tom repeated, "Are they in trouble?"
Reed put a hand on his shoulder. "I'm afraid so. But I promise we'll do everything we can to save them."
Clad in exercise jumpsuits, Daria and Jane relaxed in Daria's quarters. Daria said, "You're picking up the martial arts pretty fast. It took me almost three weeks to get as far as you have in a week."
Jane took a deep drink from a glass. "Probably because I've always been more athletic than you. Only fair, I need to have at least two things I'm better at."
"I've always been a bit clumsy. It really shows with this."
"Yeah, the teacher was looking a little frustrated at you."
Dr. Doom entered and walked directly to them. "Miss Lane, please go to your quarters immediately. I have important matters to discuss with my daughter."
The cutting edge of his voice made Jane jump to her feet. "Don't have to tell me twice." To Daria, she said, "Call me when you're free."
Looking relieved to get out of his presence, Jane quickly left the apartment.
"Follow me," Dr. Doom said. Though tired, Daria hastened after him until they reached a heavily armored and reinforced command center deep within the castle.
After the doors closed, Doom said, "Daughter, much has been expected of you in a brief time. There is a reason."
I don't like the sound of this.
"Years ago, I gave my word to make a safe homeland for the Romany. I've done that, but at a high price. Tomorrow, it will become your duty to continue to keep Latveria safe."
Daria felt her chest tighten and heart beat frantically. "Tomorrow?"
"Yes. An opportunity has arrived to allow me to reclaim my honor and that which I gave up. I think you can understand that. But, to do so, I must allow Latveria to pass into your hands. I have given you command permission for most of Castle Doom's systems. After midnight, you will have command control of all."
When I said sooner, I didn't mean this soon. Daria said, "Where are you going?"
"To Hell."
"That…sounds like you literally mean the plane of damnation."
"Correct. When I was a small child, my mother invoked the demon Mephisto in an attempt to free our people from King Vladimir. When she was killed, the demon claimed her soul. Years ago, I freed my mother from Mephisto's torment, but could do nothing about what she had suffered. The time has come that I can repay that torment on Mephisto." Doom clasped his hands behind his back. "More so, because of my bargain with the demon Haazarath, the soul of Valeria, the one who honestly loved me, is now imprisoned there. I will free her."
"How do you plan to do that?
"By ruling."
Daria shivered in response to the icy dread in her stomach.
"My spies inform me that Dr. Richards has been following my efforts to obtain what is needed for my plan. You will make sure that the Fantastic Four do not disturb me."
Expertly flying at treetop level, Ben said, "Reed, I hope you're right about Doom being too involved in his ritual to directly control the castle's defenses. This could get real messy."
"The ritual will require his full concentration. During that time, the defenses will be on automatic. It will be much easier to get past them then. We'll cut things close, but it's our best hope to save these girls."
Sue said, "Some of what we heard in Lawndale about the princess worries me. She can be cold and calculating at times. What if she's a willing participant? What if she wants to follow in Doom's footsteps?"
Reed sadly said, "Then that means the Lane girl is the sacrifice because she's emotionally the closest to the princess. We'll need to stop the ritual before Doom or his heiress can gain some unknown power."
Johnny watched the passing scenery. "Why can't Doom ever have simple plots?"
"Damn, Daria. You look terrified," Jane said in surprise when she opened the door.
"I wish I could calm down enough to be terrified. Jane, stay in here. No matter what you hear outside, stay put."
"What's going on!"
"Some stuff's about to hit the fan. Really bad."
"And you want me to stay here? What about you?"
"In the middle of it."
"Dammit! I'm your friend. I didn't come all this way to hide."
"Jane, I can't take a chance. The servo-guards for your quarters will make sure you stay put. Gently, but they will. After midnight, I'll let you know if it's clear."
"Midnight? What happens then?"
"If I'm still around, my life gets a lot more complicated and I'll need you more than ever."
"That sounds like…"
"If I make it. Keep your head down and I hope to see you in a couple hours."
Deep underneath Castle Doom, Daria uncomfortably sat at chair built for her father's greater size. Doom stood beside, one hand on the chair back. "Organizing a rebellion in Hell will take time, during which I can't be interrupted. The advantage of using the Anatolian Key to open the portal is that, being human, it won't be possible to summon me back to Earth like other beings of the outer realms. The only way would be to send the Key to Hell and reverse the ritual. That is why you must destroy it."
"How?"
"It is fragile. A strong blow will be sufficient." Doom pointed to an empty sensor display on the console in front of Daria. "They're coming, but are managing to remain concealed. Dr. Richards is a skilled and intelligent tactician. The combined powers and practiced cooperation of his followers have, in the past, made them formidable opponents. I anticipate they will attempt to intervene when I am occupied with the ritual. You are intelligent, but inexperienced. It is unlikely you will stop them. You shall only need to delay."
Daria stared straight ahead, anticipating and dreading the answer to her question, "You're really not expecting to come back?"
His hand moved to lightly rest on her shoulder. "No. That's why I leave my people in your hands. You will lead them to a new era."
He stepped back and started to turn.
Daria asked, "What…if I had refused your offer?"
He finished turning and started to walk to the next room. "I would not have offered if I had believed you would decline."
Daria watched the flashing icon that denoted a low-flying vehicle nearing Castle Doom. He made his decision on whether to serve or rule. I could stop him, but should I? Who knows what harm he could cause ruling Hell? That is, if he succeeds. Letting the Fantastic Four in will stop that…and I don't think they'll kill him. That means Father will eventually be free. Free on Earth. Once again, the choice is clear.
Daria remembered the quick instructions and targeted the flying vehicle with missiles. A second icon appeared and streaked forward, eliminating a missile as it moved close. Within seconds, the volley had been neutralized. Daria noted the flyer's slower speed though.
Jane sat on her bed with arms wrapped around her knees. She jumped at the distant detonation of the missiles. The next minutes passed in complete silence. Silence ended by a loud crash and almost continuous blasts of weapon's fire.
The message from the defense computer system said, "Your orders have left the southwest tower poorly defended. Do you wish to amend orders?"
Daria said, "No. Consolidate to defend the inner core. The outer towers are expendable."
The next message said, "Reminder. Royal guest quarters are in the southwest tower."
Daria decided to take a chance with the computer. "Correct. If we don't defend the tower, it will be safer for the guest. Conceal the remaining servo-guards."
"Confirmed. Only two guest residence servo-guards remain at tower. Auto-camouflage of units engaged."
Jane saw flame flash outside the tower. She rolled off the bed and crawled under it. Moments later, the door slammed open and Ben Grimm filled the door. He yelled over his shoulder, "Looks clear!" He came in further and looked around. "Miss Lane! We're here to get you out! Hello!"
Jane stayed under the bed and hoped they didn't search. Moments later, Reed said, "She must be with the others. We need to get going."
"Right, boss. If Doom hurts either of those girls - it's Clobberin' Time!"
Nervously watching four blue icons move through a schematic of the guest quarters, Daria exhaled in relief when they left without the fifth, red icon. "Well, the camo didn't work, but at least they didn't find her."
After they left, Jane carefully got out and looked through the door. She saw the scorched remains of the servo-guards and said, "Nobody to keep me in now. Sorry Daria, but friends stick together." Keeping low, she followed the Fantastic Four.
"Jane!" Daria shouted at the console as the fifth icon started moving behind the other four. "Dammit! I wanted you to stay put and safe." She scanned through the available servo-guards. None of them can get to her yet. Jane, keep your head down.
Daria kept an eye on the clock and followed the intruders' progress. She quickly learned how movements and behavior identified each symbol, Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Thing and Human Torch. They were engaged by a group of eight servo-guards. The icons moved in a blur as they fought. More symbols appeared showing structural damage to the castle. Concerned by how quickly the damage mounted, Daria withdrew the two remaining units deeper into the castle core.
A robotic head gouged a divot in the stone wall above Jane's head as it bounced down the hall. She dove to the floor and crawled to a guard alcove, taking cover inside it. An arm flew and came to rest about ten feet away while Ben shouted down the hall, "Doom-boy's making 'em cheaper nowadays."
"Crap." Pulling her hair back in frustration, Daria watched the flanking unit's icon fade to black. She scanned through the available units again and came up with nothing to move to replace the lost one. "Father wasn't kidding about your tactical skill, Dr. Richards. I can't get a unit around you to get to Jane." Touching Jane's icon with a finger, Daria said, "Keep staying back and please…be careful."
Spreading her attention between Jane, the Fantastic Four and the clock, Daria was pressed hard to keep them busy without seriously damaging the castle. When the clock was approaching midnight, they were nearing the control room and Daria could hear thumps outside. The last of the data links to the servo-guards protecting the control room went down and there was a pall of silence. Daria checked that Jane's icon was still safely back, closed her eyes and stood. With forced evenness, she walked to the door leading to Doom's laboratory and drew her weapon.
Across the control room from her, a short flight of stairs led up to an armored door. It burst inward with a loud crash. Daria unevenly drew in a breath as the Thing lumbered down, followed by the rest of the Fantastic Four.
"Please, stop there," she told them, barely able to keep a tremble out of her voice.
Reed stepped forward. "Princess Daria, please put the weapon down. We don't want to hurt you."
"Trust me," Daria replied, "Getting hurt is not on my list of things to do today."
"We don't have much time. Please put it down."
Daria shook her head. "No. I'm all that's left between you and my father."
Sue stepped forward. "Is he that important to you?"
Daria carefully watched each. "You don't know what's going on."
"Is your friend Jane in there with Doom?"
"Jane's safe. Don't worry about her."
Reed took another step forward. "Think. Is this what you really want to do?"
"If you mean feeling like Marvin standing off against a Frogstar robot? No, not really. But doing what I think will accomplish the most good? Yes."
Johnny Storm tried to use Daria's momentary distraction to fly past her. She quickly shifted and fired. The concussion threw him against a wall.
Sitting on the floor against it, Johnny put a hand to his bruised chest. "Ouch. She packs a big punch."
Reed suddenly stretched up and over Daria. She pivoted and fired, watching the concussion dissipate against an invisible force field projected by Sue. Daria tried to run before Reed finished his stretch, but he grabbed her from behind and held the pistol away from the others. Daria pulled and writhed trying to get free.
Ben took two steps forward and carefully pulled it from Daria's hand. "You won't need that any more, little girl." He tossed the pistol aside.
Daria stopped her struggle. Reed gave Sue a quick nod and stepped back. Sue put up a shield between Daria and the rest of the Fantastic Four.
Daria dropped her head.
Jane reached the corner of the door and stopped. "Oh, crap."
Ben continued to the final door. After three double-fisted blows, it caved in.
Reed and Johnny followed Ben in while Sue kept watch on Daria.
Doom's voice bellowed from within a glowing eldritch circle. "Reed Richards. You have been my most inventive and confounding opponent."
"I'll confound your head!" Ben said back.
"Mr. Grimm. Honorably direct." He looked back to Reed. "You had to go through my daughter to get here. If she is unharmed…my word that you'll not see me again. If you harmed her, it will be the greatest mistake you've ever made."
Doom raised his fists in triumph. "This time, you cannot stop me!" A tower of flame flashed up from the floor, splashed against the roof and as quickly as it formed, dissipated.
Reed, Ben and Johnny rushed forward, only to find the scorched remains of the circle and the mystic paraphernalia around it.
"He's gone." Reed looked around in frustration.
Daria said, "Yes, he is."
Sue allowed the shield to drop. "Please don't do anything rash." However, she kept a careful eye on Daria.
Reed came into the control room carrying a delicate, crystalline scepter, the Anatolian Key. He said, "Where is Dr. Doom?"
Daria said without emotion, "In Hell."
Reed demanded, "Who did he take with him?"
"He's alone."
"I'll ask again, where is your friend, Jane?"
"She's…"
"Right here." Jane gulped and stood. "I'm Jane."
Reed stopped, thought for a moment, and then said, "Princess, Miss Lane, stay where you are, please. Everyone else, come here."
Reed stepped away from Daria and Jane while the rest of his team gathered around him.
Daria barely whispered to Jane. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm your friend and I didn't want you to be alone. I didn't want to be alone."
"I didn't want to be alone, either. But, I'm still going to find somebody to kick you in the ass later."
"What now?"
"Hope I can do one last thing."
The Fantastic Four returned. Reed unclipped a small, hand-held scanner from his belt. "I'm very relieved that both of you are safe. However, I must consider the possibility that one of you has been possessed by Doom. He's done that before. Please stand still."
Reed passed the scanner in front of Daria. "You're clear."
He passed it in front of Jane. "You're clear, too."
Daria tightly rolled her hand into a fist. When Reed looked down for a moment to clip the scanner onto his belt, she focused on the Key still in his hand and struck it with a quick, sharp punch like her martial arts instructor had shown. It shattered into hundreds of fragments that fell to the floor with a harp-like sound and Daria said, "With that gone…my father won't be back."
Reed looked at the stained crystal shards and blood dripping from Daria's fist. "You're colder than I thought. Without that, he's trapped in Hell. I'm surprised Victor made such a mistake."
She watched the blood dripping from her hand. Quietly, she answered, "He didn't make a mistake. That's what he wanted. My father's on a quest for something important to him. Before leaving, he charged me to take Latveria into a new era. I intend to."
"Don't toy with us, little girl," Ben growled.
Sternly, she looked up at him. Her former uncertainty had vanished, replaced a certainty of what she must do. "Soon, I will be Queen Daria." She slowly gazed at the other three. "I will not be called, 'little girl.'"
Jane stared. "Daria…your hand."
She tried to wipe the blood from it and flinched at the pain. "I will do what I must to protect that which as been entrusted to me and become the monarch of half a million people. But, I'm not my father. I don't want to rule like him, I don't need enemies and I don't need to continue his battles."
She extended her hand toward Reed. "I'm also a seventeen-year old who wants a new start and hope this is the only blood we spill."
Reed carefully grasped her wounded hand. "A new start."
Janos slowly drew a device along the cuts on Daria's hand. It twitched from the pain as each wound was closed. He said, "You will feel pain for several days."
"Better than dripping blood all over."
"Yes, Highness."
"My father left a recording to be broadcast at eight o'clock tomorrow morning. He explains his departure from Latveria and directs that I become Queen."
"The Master will be missed."
"I hope I can care for Latveria as much as he did.
Janos completed his task. "I will leave your highness to rest and I will attend to cleaning up the castle."
"Thank you, Janos."
Jane came over with two glasses of water. "You must be thirsty, I know I am."
"Hadn't even thought of that."
"No problem."
The cool water felt wonderful as it went down. Daria told Jane, "Thanks. I'm glad Dr. Richards was willing to be reasonable about starting over."
"Hey, he even apologized for wrecking the place."
"From his viewpoint and with what was known, he had legitimate concerns."
Jane sat and squirmed around, uncomfortable. "Um…Dr. Richards was kinda right, though. That was cold what you did to your father."
"But it had to be done. In the long run, it doesn't matter much to Earth if he does take over Hell. He will personify evil just as others do now. He will try to influence and manipulate humans. But it will remain their choice to perform evil or not. He has no greater ability to sway others to evil."
"But, you left him there permanently."
"I know. He treated me well and cared for his people. But, I also learned what he has done and was capable of doing. He was evil and that is where he would've end up anyway." Daria looked at her aching hand. "This way…his ability to harm Earth is almost eliminated."
"Daria, there is something else, I can feel it."
"Most important, he went to free an innocent that he put there." Daria reached over and touched Jane's hand. "I can understand that."
I guess you won't be in the running for Prom Queen this year. Daria smiled at rereading that passage Jodie had written in her last email. She neatly folded it and slid it into a concealed pocket of her gown. Her hand was still stiff, but only a couple traces of scars remained. The accelerated healing worked well, but I think it's good that the scars are there to remind me of what happened.
The orchestra started playing and she straightened her back. At a steady pace, she walked down the center of the throne room. The long dress, embroidered with fine silks and set with emeralds, flowed smoothly with her as she walked. With her passage, each bowed.
If I can survive this…it'll be a piece of cake if I ever get married.
At the front of the audience was her family. Helen glowed with pride and happiness. The determination and stubbornness I learned from you will help me a lot in the future. Jake watched her with joy and sadness. I remember that convention trip. You are still a hero to me…and I'll always remember how you conquered one of your fears. Quinn gazed around in wonder. I'm sorry your crush on David went as well as mine on Trent. Please enjoy all the attention that I can't. Aunt Amy gently smirked. The chef was appalled, but there will be cheese fries later. Finishing out the family was her Aunt Rita and both grandmothers. Thank you, everyone, for setting aside your differences for one day.
Upon the dais, the Prime Minister stood to the left of the throne. To the right of it was Jane in a black gown accented with rubies. Just behind her stood Janos, holding a pillow with a crown resting on it.
Daria reached the throne and turned, kneeling on a cushion.
Speaking in elegant, precise Latverian, the Prime Minister stood before Daria as he read from an equally elegant book. "Are you the rightful heiress to the throne of Latveria?"
Working heavily from memorization, Daria answered in kind, "I am."
"Do you accept the responsibilities and duties of Queen?"
"I accept. I pledge to protect and to honor the people of Latveria. That is my first duty."
"Do you accept the loyalty of the people of Latveria?"
"I accept. I pledge to loyalty with loyalty."
"Do you accept the burden of caring for the people of Latveria in any time of need?"
"I accept. I pledge to provide for those unable to provide for themselves."
The Prime Minister nodded, and Jane carefully raised the crown over Daria's head. The Prime Minister said, "Then accept this symbol of leadership and duty."
Jane placed the crown on Daria's head.
Daria whispered to her in English, "You know you've always wanted the chance to crown me."
Jane smirked but managed to keep from laughing.
Daria rose to her feet and the audience broke into applause. When it slowed, she sat upon her throne, thinking, This sure has been some summer, and it isn't even fall yet.
Dialog from:
Is It Fall Yet? By Glenn Eichler and Peggy Nicoll
Thanks to Brother Grimace, Ipwichfan and Mr. Orange for beta reading.
September 2005