Breaking the Ring of Violence — War and Peace

Nicholas' hussar temper worries him: he beats a Bogucharovo elder and tells Mary proudly at lunch. She turns red, then weeps silently until he understands violence he learned as normal is wrong. He promises never again; the broken cameo ring reminds him when anger rises. He slips once or twice yearly, confesses to Mary, and renews the vow. He farms and hunts with business seriousness, reads history, and grows closer to Mary and their children. Sonya lives with them; Mary and Natasha discuss her as a sterile flower who attaches to the household not individuals. Bald Hills is rebuilt simply; relatives visit; routine breakfasts and name days mark the year.