Reversal

After Illidan and Mannoroth returned, they presented the Dragon Soul to Roy.

Roy toyed with the artifact. The Dragon Soul was roughly millstone-sized and shaped like a pendant on a necklace, but the enormous gemstone at its center resembled a mirror. Vast energy had been sealed within that gem.

Roy, who knew Azeroth's history, understood perfectly well that once this artifact fell into the Burning Legion's hands, the great explosion of the Well of Eternity would not be far off. When that happened, even this projection of his power might be forcibly sucked back through the portal.

Then it was time to reclaim what belonged to him...

Thinking this, Roy tossed the Dragon Soul to Mannoroth and had him use it to reinforce the portal. Then he said to Illidan, "You did very well. When Lord Sargeras descends, he will grant you the reward you deserve."

"It is my honor..." Illidan had been preoccupied with his own plans, so his answer was somewhat absentminded. Afraid that Roy might keep him here and delay those plans, he said, "Lord Osiris, if there is nothing else, please allow me to take my leave."

Roy said nothing. He merely stared at Illidan for a long while before suddenly saying, "You... are a clever man..."

Illidan found the words horrifying. His mind, which had been occupied with his plan, jolted awake, and he came to his senses. He could hear the deeper meaning in Roy's words, yet he was uncertain whether Roy had truly seen through anything. He could only answer vaguely, "Thank you for the praise, my lord..."

Just as Illidan was feeling uneasy, Roy waved a hand. "Go. Do what you need to do."

Only after Illidan cautiously withdrew did Roy stroke his chin, a faint smile appearing on his face.

Trapped