This requires a longer response, because it's important to know what the main character (MC) wants, so we can deny him that. Or give him that in the worst possible way. Sometimes the character doesn't even know what he really wants, but we - the author - must know that.

Cornelius knows what he wants. He wants to be independent from his father. He would go a long way to get that, but each time he tries, he gets hit upside the head, so he's about to accept his fate. He also knows what he doesn't want - he doesn't want to become like his father when he "grows up". He doesn't want to be a doctor. But it seems he can't escape that. That's how he is when we meet him.

Ethan wants independence as well, but for different resons - he's ill and when striken by his ailment, he's largely dependent on those around him. Another thing he wants is the wealth of his family. He's the head of the family and he makes sure all his younger siblings and his mother are well suited. He also thrives success. He climbs the social ladder very fast and is on the straight way to the highest honors in the Kingdom. These are the things he's aware off.

What he doesn't know is that he wants to have a family of his own. He thinks he doesn't want to have a wife or children - due to his illness. But the truth is he wants to have a heir, very much. And this unaware need is what drives most of his actions. Especially those that will have the most potentially devastating effects.

I think I should find out what is the hidden need of Cornelius, because I'm pretty sure we all have such hidden desires. And they are much more responsible for our decisions, because we cannot control them not being aware of their existence. Well, that's a problem I need to think about. What crossed my mind just now - his needs are negative - not be near his father, and not be like his father. So the truth is he doesn't know what it is he wants, just what he doesn't want.

 

So what is it he wants? It comes a long way into the past and is so deeply burried, even I had the problem to uncover it, but I think Cornelius wants to find the cure for his mother. The problem is the mother has been dead for nine years. But I think I found the hidden motives for Cornell's actions. He desperatelly needs to find a cure for those he cares about. At least the story will help him to set free from his mother's spirit, even if it entangles him in another impossible situation.