The Dance That Changes Everything — War and Peace

At the Emperor's ball Natásha stands with her mother and Sónya while partners fill the floor; the polonaise turns festive music into something like grief in her ears, and Andrew passes without recognizing her while Anatole and Borís look through her.

Pierre spots her face braced for despair or rapture, nudges Andrew to ask the young Rostóva to waltz, and Andrew remembers their window talk before offering his arm; she becomes radiant as they dance, second couple in the circle, her feet moving as if on their own.

Andrew sought escape from clever talk and the Emperor's restraint, yet holding her close revives him; when he leaves the floor the wine of her charm has risen to his head and he breathes deeply, watching others, surprised by joy he did not expect.