 After Patroclus dies, Automedon is driven to the rear of the battle, where he tries to console the bereaved horses.Zeus finally intervenes, and Automedon resumes driving the chariot, but cannot aid the Achaeans until Alcimedon agrees to be his driver.He repels an attempt on his life by Hector, Aeneas, Chromios, and Aretos, killing Aretos and taking his armor in the process.