In Episode 8 The Poets Shadow Nancy grapples with the emotional toll of her recent battles against the Blight while preparing a ritual in the Nexus Guided by a cryptic note from her father she activates an antique compass that reveals Dusksworn Woods a realm of shadows and whispers There she encounters a younger version of her ally Arlen which sparks unease amidst familiarity The duo faces manifestations of a deceased poets emotions led by the sinister Malric Vayne who seeks to control the narrative and wield power over darkness Through understanding rather than violence Nancy and Arlen confront Malric ultimately severing his control over the shadows However they leave with lingering turmoil as Malric hides a fragment of malevolent intent and plots revenge