Hadji Murat has stayed a week at Major Petrov's, earning Marya Dmitrievna's affection. He and Butler, an officer at the fort, have grown close, visiting one another and communicating through an interpreter or gestures. Butler enjoys Murat’s company and appreciates Khanefi, his murid, who sings mountain songs. One song captures Butler’s attention and deepens his interest in their culture, leading him to adopt their traditional dress.

During his farewell gathering hosted by Petrov, Murat remains composed, politely declining Marya Dmitrievna's gift of a burka. An unexpected assassination attempt by Arslan Khan, motivated by a blood feud, is thwarted by Murat's quick reflexes, with Butler and Petrov diffusing the aftermath. Murat attributes the incident to cultural norms and, as he departs, expresses gratitude, solidifying his friendship with Marya Dmitrievna and Butler.

Prince Baryatinsky, a new commander, arrives at the Russian forts in Chechnya, mobilizing troops for action per Emperor Nicolas’s command. Butler, reuniting with old comrades, comes to the camp and yields to gambling, incurring a heavy debt. Desperate, he seeks financial help from relatives and considers asking Major Petrov, though Petrov’s wife, Marya Dmitrievna, likely won’t consent. Major Petrov suggests asking the canteen keeper, but this proves fruitless. Butler's only hope now rests on the responses from his brother and stingy relative.