"After giving it some thought, we've carefully put together a publicity plan for you. We intend to present you as a genius who has made outstanding contributions to Potions, perhaps by improving existing potions or inventing new ones.
"Of course, we know that's difficult. But we've already thought of a solution: we'll find people to do the work for you, and you'll simply take credit for the results. Quite a few Pure-blood families will lend you their influence, though they can't do so openly. It would be hard to explain your connection to us..."
Lucius explained their plan to Will in detail.
"You mean you want me to commit academic fraud?" Will frowned.
Whichever way Lucius put it, he wanted Will to claim someone else's work as his own.
Lucius seemed to have expected Will's reaction. He said earnestly, "I know you get excellent marks. As Master's student, you have your pride. But sometimes you need to consider what will truly benefit you. I'm sure you'll achieve great things in Potions one day, but you're not ready yet. You understand.
"Snape, the Head of Slytherin House, is one of us. As you know, he's a Potions Master. That's why we came up with this plan.
"You only need him to help a little, and countless Wizards across the Wizarding World will see you as a 'Potions genius.' Remember Lockhart? Even he became a celebrity. Believe me, anything is possible."
Will gave him an odd look. "I think you've misunderstood me. Why would I use someone else's research?"
"Why don't you understand, Behrens?" Lucius was growing irritated. It was normal for a boy Will's age to have fanciful ideas, but as Snape's student, surely he knew Snape was a Potions Master? Lucius remembered that the boy had even accompanied Snape to