James, the other protagonist and first-person narrator, is a verbose, rebellious, and impulsive character who swears often and is driven by a deep desire to prove his worth to the New Republic. He sets out to infiltrate Ark Island, hoping to gain a sense of purpose and recognition. Raised by his half-brother Warner, the ruler of the New Republic, and his wife Juliette, James’s life is shaped by the powerful people around him. His father, once the supreme commander of North America, is now dead, leaving James with a complicated legacy. James often seeks approval from his brother, and he enjoys it when his brother compliments his skills, as when he retrieves a chip from an AI squirrel. James had a harrowing and traumatic upbringing during the revolution, where he witnessed many of his friends die. He possesses healing powers that enable him to survive situations where others would not. Though he may seem tough and self-assured, James carries the weight of his past trauma.

James manages to steal a weapon, dodge bullets, and shoot his way out of prison, displaying his resourcefulness and hinting toward his ability to heal himself. He has the chance to kill Rosa but does not, instead feeling moved by her plea to help her sister. His view of her shifts as he starts to recognize her humanity, and this change plays a significant role in his character development, highlighting the theme of Reconnecting With One’s Humanity Through Empathy. Initially, James has no empathy for Rosa or her sister. However, when he hears Clara scream, something shifts within him. The sound reminds him of his own traumatic childhood during the revolution, and it awakens a desire to protect. He suddenly feels compelled to take care of Rosa, which confuses and surprises him. After Rosa passes out on the chopper, James holds her, marking a turning point in their relationship. This act of care contrasts with his earlier indifference.

As he spends more time with Rosa, James becomes deeply aware of her pain. He is tasked with being her “sponsor,” which involves getting information out of her and convincing her that she is safe. This dynamic shifts when Rosa, ever perceptive, begins to see through James’s facade. She recognizes the rage within him, noting, “Deep down, you don’t think this world is funny. Deep down, you’re simmering with rage. You think I can’t see straight through you? You live your life as if nothing can hurt you even though your body is covered in scars” (258). This observation demonstrates James’s inner struggle: He has spent so long hiding his emotions behind layers of toughness and rebellion, but Rosa can see through it. Through their interactions, James starts to heal and, in turn, makes Rosa feel alive again.

Warner is the ruler of the New Republic, and his demeanor comes across as cold and stern, but he does have a soft side for his wife and family. His upbringing under the rule of his father, who was once the supreme commander of North America, gave him the prestige, power, and control he now has. Warner is highly strategic, commanding loyalty from those around him while maintaining an air of distance and superiority. Unlike James, Warner doesn’t form a bond with Rosa; instead, he views her as an asset. He remains largely indifferent to her emotions, focusing on his political and military goals instead. Warner’s motivations are rooted in securing the power of the New Republic, even if it means manipulating or using people like Rosa.

Warner’s bond with James is complex and built on shared history and a sense of obligation. As half-brothers, they were both raised under the oppressive and demanding regime of their father. Warner, in particular, carries the weight of their father’s legacy, while James, rebellious and more impulsive, often feels the need to prove himself. Despite their differences in personality, there is a deep, unspoken understanding between them. While James often pushes back against Warner’s more controlling tendencies, there is a subtle bond of loyalty, and James often knows how to get Warner to warm up.