The chapter opens with Achilles and Patroclus in the audience chamber of Achilles' father, Peleus.
Achilles asks his father for pardon for taking Patroclus away from his duties, explaining that he wanted him as his brother-in-arms (therapon).
Peleus asks Achilles why he chose Patroclus as his companion. Achilles simply replies that Patroclus is "surprising".
Peleus then tells Achilles and Patroclus to apologize to Amphidamas (likely an arms-master or teacher of some kind).
After leaving the audience chamber, Patroclus feels unexpectedly hurt when Achilles tells him they will next see each other at dinner later.
Achilles reveals to Patroclus that he practices fighting alone due to a prophecy that he will be the best warrior of his generation, which his mother doesn't want others to witness.
Achilles asks Patroclus to sleep in his room, shocking him. This also raises eyebrows among the other boys, who can't understand why Achilles would choose Patroclus as a companion.
Over time, Patroclus becomes comfortable with Achilles, and begins to open up, sharing stories of his past. He also stops fearing that he will be sent away.
Achilles brings Patroclus with him to his practice session. Mesmerized by Achilles' fighting, Patroclus insists that Achilles fights him. Achilles refuses, but Patroclus stubbornly persists, leading to a physical altercation, after which they both gain new understanding and appreciation of each other.