machination

1. The act of plotting.
2. A crafty scheme or cunning design for the accomplishment of a sinister end.

noun

A secret plan to achieve an evil or illegal end: cabal, collusion, connivance, conspiracy, intrigue, plot, scheme. See crimes, planned/unplanned.

"that which is devised; a device; a hostile or treacherous scheme; an artful design or plot." 125 N.E. 2d 225, 230.

n.

The method employed by one's opponents in baffling one's open and honorable efforts to do the right thing.

    So plain the advantages of machination
    It constitutes a moral obligation,
    And honest wolves who think upon't with loathing
    Feel bound to don the sheep's deceptive clothing.
    So prospers still the diplomatic art,
    And Satan bows, with hand upon his heart.
                                                                R.S.K.

The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: a crafty and involved plot to achieve your (usually sinister) ends
  Synonym: intrigue