Chapter Eleven

Summary

• The protagonist and Achilles return to the palace grounds where they are greeted by Thetis, Achilles' mother, and other guards. Thetis’ appearance shocks the protagonist, making mortals around her look weak.
• Thetis warmly welcomes Achilles back home, visibly asserting her ownership over him. The protagonist feels uncomfortably under Thetis’ gaze but gathers courage knowing that she wouldn't harm him.
• Achilles demands his friend Patroclus, the protagonist, is given a place to sit with him at the family table, confirming the bond between them despite the disapproval from Thetis.
• Patroclus gets the feeling that Thetis wants her son to go to war and believes this feeling is connected to Chiron’s parting words to Achilles.
• At the dining hall, Peleus, Achilles’ father, announces the abduction of Queen Helen by Prince Paris of Troy. He informs that the suitors of Helen are bound by an oath to rescue her and their kingdom is asked to contribute men to the war.
• Patroclus expresses fear at being potentially involved in the war due to his past and a memory of an oath he made at a gathering of heroes. He worries about his and Achilles' futures.
• The chapter concludes with Peleus and Achilles discussing the possibility of war. Achilles asserts that he is still not ready to leave his current lifestyle and chooses to remain undecided about joining the war.
• Achilles assures Patroclus that if Patroclus has to go to war, he will go with him, affirming their bond and friendship.