The beginning of great changes in the political life of Europe, the time of great generals. In the political arena, the influence of France, England and Russia is increasing. Napoleon Bonaparte is preparing for great deeds, but family battles prevent him from devoting himself to state affairs. Despite the requests of Napoleon, the Bonapartes do not intend to accept Josephine and her children. Napoleon, not wanting to participate in family dramas, goes to inspect the army.

Varya fails to prevent the duel between Peter and Tolstoy. But the end of the duel is unexpected - Cherkasov and Tolstoy become friends. Evdokia marries Olga for Mongo-Stolypin. Olga, offended by Peter, agrees to the marriage. Peter does not intend to retreat, seeing Olga's hesitation, he offers her a secret wedding. Pavel warns Alexander about the danger of friendship with the Polish prince. Elizaveta tells her husband about Czartoryski's letters. She assures Alexander that she does not find the Polish prince attractive.

Evdokia learns that Olga and Peter are going to get married in secret, and dissuades Olga. Olga informs Tolstoy and Peter that she refuses to run. Varya's mother, Aglaya, plays the cards of Varya's music teacher, the serf singer Stepan. Kuragin does not hide his feelings for Evdokia, but she is not ready to give an answer. The only thing she asks is to take Peter to Petersburg. Paul is sure that the Grand Duchess Elizabeth dishonored the royal family with her connection with Czartoryski. These thoughts offend Alexander.

Olga stops the fight between Peter and Mongo-Stolypin. Given a choice, she gives her life to Mongo. Evdokia, seeing the suffering of her son, regrets that she interfered with his happiness. Mongo-Stolypin claims to have saved Peter from the disappointments of family life. Stepan confesses his love to Varya - he ran away from the new owner only to see her. Varya thinks how to save Stepan. Czartoryski confesses to Alexander that he is in love with Elizabeth. Elizabeth hides Czartoryski's letter from Alexander.

Peter becomes close to the Grand Duke Alexander. Lugin becomes Konstantin's adjutant. Olga begins to get to know the life of the capital, Mongo pleases her with unexpected gifts. Arriving in Cherkasovo to visit Varya and Evdokia, Olga assures them that she is happy, but before leaving, she steals a medallion with a portrait of Peter. Polish conspirators, friends of Czartoryski's youth, ask Adam to assist them in kidnapping Alexander. Czartoryski does not want to participate in this.