Many of the chiefs raise their hands, but Diomedes picks Odysseus to accompany him. Neither man could see it Scanning the night sky, they only heard its cry. Both men pray to Athena in gratitude for the sign asking for protection. Diomedes promises a sacrifice if they are successful. The Trojans, however, are not sleeping.
Hector stirs up the chiefs challenging the men to go on a night raid.
Dolon , who is not much to look at but quick on his feet, volunteers. Diomedes and Odysseus see him coming despite the darkness. They follow him and lie down with the corpses. Dolon offers a rich ransom to the pair in return for his safety. Odysseus tells him that death is his last concern.