Fantastic Four (1996) 4

This is simply a variant cover for the season.

Inside is The Heart of Darkness, guest-starring the Black Panther, a reimagining of Fantastic Four (1961) 52.

Reed and Sue are the main characters in this issue as they travel to Wakanda to investigate a strange crash site. They learn, too late, it’s a ploy by Dr. Doom who capture the crew and the story is continued next issue.

The second coming of the FF comes on the heels of Heroes Reborn. Franklin Richards has saved his fantastic family, the Avengers and Dr. Doom during their battle with Onslaught. The Richard’s first-born cocoons them in a pocket universe where Franklin everything but those he rescued.

The short-lived escape from the regular Marvel U lasted a total of 13 issues. The mini-series Heroes Return introduced them back courtesy of Franklin’s powers.