Subterfuge (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)
Definition
Subterfuge is deception you can maintain: a lie told convincingly, a motive kept hidden, a disguise that survives conversation, a con run over months. It is also the defensive half of every social scene, since it is what keeps someone else's Insight from reading what you are doing. Every vampire uses it constantly whether they invested in it or not. The Masquerade is a permanent lie about what you are, told to everyone you meet, forever. Characters with low Subterfuge do not stop lying, they just do it badly, and a badly told lie about why your hands are cold is how Masquerade problems begin.
How it works
Tips
Frequently asked questions
Do I roll Subterfuge for every lie?
Only when it matters and someone might catch it. A trivial lie to a bored bartender needs no roll; a lie to a Harpy who is already suspicious certainly does.
Does Subterfuge cover disguise?
Yes, it is a listed specialty. A physical disguise plus a maintained story is Subterfuge, while a supernaturally altered appearance is Obfuscate or a Discipline power.
How does it interact with Auspex?
Badly, for you. A vampire reading auras or emotions can catch a lie your Subterfuge sold perfectly, which is why liars in this setting fear Auspex more than any other Discipline.