Napoleon arrives in a deserted Moscow and is angered that there is no deputation of noblemen to meet him there. Pierre is still at his home, a fact which surprises his servant Gerasim, who warns his master that the streets are no longer safe. Pierre still believes that he is fated to murder Napoleon, but his musings over this ambition are interrupted by the arrival of a French officer called Ramballe. Pierre intercedes in an altercation between his drunk porter and Ramballe and the officer invites him to dine with him. They spend the evening getting drunk and exchanging confidences. Meanwhile, Napoleon learns from his generals of the presence of incendiaries in the city - who were instructed by Rostopchin before he left - and is concerned that if the city burns there will be no quarters for his troops....

At Yaroslavl, Natasha and Maria are still mourning the death of Andrei. Maria suggests that Natasha should come with her to Moscow, but she declines. When news reaches the Rostovs that Petya is dead, the Countess is inconsolable. Pierre returns to his house in Moscow and both Gerasim and Katishe are surprised to see him having thought he was dead Katishe tells him that Helene has died. Pierre attends a soiree given by the Drubetskoys and amazes everyone with his presence. Vasili Kuragin, who has now lost both of his children, is particularly moved by seeing him again. Pierre visits Maria Bolkonskya and is surprised to find Natasha there too. Natasha talks of Andrei for the first time since his death....