This image was lost some time after publication.

Lingering Anna Nicole Smith confidante/protector /hourly-legal-fee-charger Howard K. Stern was interviewed by Larry King last night, during which the veteran broadcaster launched some confusingly worded softballs related to Smith's son's sudden death. (eg: "KING: You know, a lot of parents go through a lot of things when a child dies, including guilt. Is she feeling any of that this was my fault?"). Several new pieces of the puzzle emerged, most notable among them that Stern is claiming to be the father of Smith's baby daughter:

KING: We have an e-mail question from Irene in South Plainfield, New Jersey who wants to know, "What did Anna Nicole name her new daughter?"

STERN: Her name is Danilynne is the first name and Hope is the middle name and where that comes from is that Daniel used to call Anna or his mom Mamma Lynne.

KING: So, the girl's name is Dani?

STERN: Danilynne.

UPDATE: Larry Birkhead wants a paternity test. More after the jump.

KING: Danilynne. Another e-mail from Karen in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, "Why has Anna Nicole been so secretive about who the father of her new daughter is?"

STERN: Well, I'm going to tell you that right now. Anna and I have been in a relationship and we love each other and it's been going on for a very long time and because of my relationship as her lawyer, we felt that it was best to keep everything hidden. And we've actually done a pretty good job of that.

King did bring up Larry Birkhead's multi-part Entertainment Tonight interview, in which the freelance photographer/opportunist announced to the world that he was the baby's natural father, a claim Stern quickly and convincingly dismisses by pointing out the tastelessness in its timing and choice of forum. It was a poignant moment among many in what must have been a very difficult interview for Stern, handled compassionately as always by seasoned pro King, particularly with his sensitive sign-off: "Howard K. Stern, Anna Nicole's close friend and attorney, announcing tonight that he's also the father of Danilynne Hope, the little baby born in the weirdest of circumstances. Tomorrow night on Larry King Live, Clay Aiken speaks out. From American Idol to those persistent rumors to his paralyzing panic attacks..."

UPDATE: Larry Birkhead tells Us Weekly he's willing to subject himself to a paternity test to prove he is Danylinne's real father.