Machination

noun

1. The act of scheming or plotting.
2. A crafty scheme or cunning design for the accomplishment of a sinister end.
3. The act of machinating, or of contriving a scheme for executing some purpose, particularly a forbidden or an evil purpose; underhand plotting or contrivance.
4. That which is planned or contrived; a plot; an artful design formed with deliberation; especially, a hostile or treacherous scheme.
5. The act of machinating.