After reading this story, how does the narrator change his view over time?

At the beginning of the novel, when living on his own as an orphan, Chap proves himself to be a selfish, unfeeling teenager with little to no regard for other people. He is a remorseless criminal, and he felt no moral guilt in considering and hatching his plan to impersonate another person and steal his life.

Interestingly, though, soon after setting this plan into motion, Chap suddenly (and inexplicably?) transforms into a thoughtful, caring young man with a heart for justice. He puts himself at risk to get to the bottom of Cassiel's disappearance, and he goes to a lot of trouble to discover the truth and apprehend those responsible. His zeal in carrying out this plan contrasts with his earlier narcissism and complacency. This character development, while sudden and perhaps unwarranted, is a remarkable juxtaposition, and it is a good one for the hardened character of Chap. When he discards his old name and adopts the new (and original) Damiel, his transformation is complete.