Chapter 7: Nathaniel – Summary and Analysis
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
The chapter opens at the embassy in Kabul the morning after Izzy reveals why she is really in Afghanistan. Nathaniel confronts her, trying to convince her to abandon her plan to find her sister Serena, a photojournalist for the Times who has not been heard from recently. Nate argues that searching is too dangerous, but Izzy insists she can talk sense into Serena and bring her home. Nate reluctantly agrees to help, suggesting they check for recent correspondence from American journalists. The delegation departs in a convoy, and Nate fits Izzy with a Kevlar vest and helmet. They board two Blackhawk helicopters at a soccer field converted to a staging area. During the flight, Izzy's fear of flying becomes evident; Nate gives her his AirPods and selects "Northern Downpour," a song they both love. They travel to Jalalabad for a brief meeting. Upon returning to the embassy that evening, they learn that Zaranj has fallen to the Taliban. Izzy receives a folder of recent articles from American journalists, but Serena's name does not appear. Nate points out the ring on Izzy's finger, implying an engagement, and then leaves abruptly.
Key Events
- Nathaniel tries to change Izzy's mind about searching for Serena.
- Izzy reveals Serena has been in Afghanistan for five months and stayed after the Bagram withdrawal.
- Nate suggests pulling correspondence from American journalists to locate Serena.
- Izzy is outfitted with Kevlar gear and they travel by helicopter.
- Izzy shows a fear of flying; Nate gives her his AirPods and plays her favorite song.
- They attend a meeting in Jalalabad.
- News arrives that Zaranj has fallen to the Taliban.
- Back at the embassy, Izzy reviews articles but finds no recent work by Serena.
- Nate mentions Izzy's ring, creating tension, and leaves.
Character Development
Nathaniel: This chapter deepens Nate's protective nature and his unresolved feelings for Izzy. He is torn between his duty as a sergeant and his personal desire to keep her safe. His memories of their shared past, especially the plane crash (flight 826), resurface when he sees her fear. His gesture of sharing music shows a tender side, but he quickly retreats when the ring reminds him of her possible engagement.
Isabeau (Izzy): Izzy is determined to find Serena despite the risks. She relies on Nate's help but also asserts her independence. Her fear of flying connects to her history with Nate, showing vulnerability. She is pragmatic in her mission, using her position in the congressional delegation to gain access.
Serena (offstage): Though not present, Serena's stubbornness and her skills as a photojournalist are discussed, establishing her as the object of the search.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Protection vs. Freedom: Nate wants to control Izzy's movements for her safety, while Izzy insists on her right to take risks for her sister.
Music as Memory and Connection: The song "Northern Downpour" links Nate and Izzy to their past. Nate's decision to share his AirPods is an intimate gesture that bypasses words.
Fear and Comfort: The helicopter flight triggers Izzy's trauma from the plane crash. Nate's calm presence and the music offer comfort, highlighting their bond.
The Engagement Ring: The ring symbolizes a future with someone else, creating a barrier between Nate and Izzy. Nate's reaction shows his jealousy and pain.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 7 is the first full chapter from Nathaniel's perspective, offering insight into his thoughts and feelings. It advances the plot by officially launching the search for Serena. The helicopter scene deepens the emotional history between Nate and Izzy, referencing the plane crash from their past. The news of Zaranj's fall underscores the escalating danger in Afghanistan, raising stakes. The mention of Izzy's ring introduces a new complication in their relationship, setting up future conflict.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Nathaniel reluctantly agree to help Izzy find Serena despite believing it is dangerous?
Nate agrees because he knows Izzy will continue with or without him. By helping, he can exert some control over the situation and ensure she has the best possible support. His unresolved feelings for her also make it impossible to refuse.
2. How does the helicopter flight scene reveal the history between Nate and Izzy?
Izzy's fear of flying and Nate's immediate recognition of it refer back to the flight 826 crash in which they both survived. Nate giving her his AirPods and playing her favorite song shows their intimacy and his knowledge of her. The moment connects their present to their traumatic past.
3. What is the significance of the ring on Izzy's finger?
The ring suggests Izzy is engaged to someone else, creating a barrier between her and Nate. Nate's pointed mention of it and his subsequent exit show that he is hurt by this knowledge and that their past relationship is unresolved. It adds a personal stake to his professional duty.