In Marvel’s current crossover epic, Secret Wars, Doctor Doom reigns supreme over Battleworld. Doom has stolen the powers of the Beyonders and crowned himself as God Emperor Doom of the patchwork planet that holds the remaining realities of the Marvel Universe. Because of the nature of superhero comics, Doom’s reign can’t last forever. But it will run for at least one additional issue.

Marvel has announced that Secret Wars will be extended to nine issues, which also means Secret Wars #9 is getting pushed back to December. However, the Secret Wars creative team of writer Jonathan Hickman and artist Esad Ribic will remain intact for the final issue.

While fans are going to have to wait several months to see the conclusion of Hickman and Ribic’s story, Marvel isn’t going to delay the launch of its All-New, All-Different titles this fall.

“This extra issue will not affect any of the new launches as part of All-New, All-Different Marvel,“ explained Marvel’s David Gabriel. “But there might be a surprise or two left over from Battleworld you weren’t expecting. In fact, like the original Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars, some of those puzzle pieces will hit the Marvel Universe before the event concludes. But if you want to see how they all fit together, you don’t want to miss these last few issues.”

Judging from the Alex Ross-painted cover of Secret Wars #9, the final battle will come down to Doom and his longtime rival, Reed Richards a.k.a. Mr. Fantastic, both of whom are currently M.I.A. in the post-Secret Wars solicitations from Marvel. Although it is worth noting that there is no Fantastic Four title immediately planned after Secret Wars, and the Thing and Human Torch have both been added to other titles.

Comic fans, are you cool with the extra wait to see the fate of Battleworld and the inevitable fall of God Emperor Doom? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!