"At swords' points" is a phrase that denotes two people or groups who are in a state of bitter conflict or at the brink of confrontation. However, there are several other ways to express the same idea. "Head-to-head" or "face-to-face" indicate direct confrontation without necessarily involving violence. "At loggerheads" suggests a protracted dispute or a deadlock where both parties refuse to compromise. "In the line of fire" indicates a dangerous situation that could lead to open hostility. "On the verge of a clash" denotes a situation where conflict is imminent. These phrases are effective ways to convey the same tense and confrontational mood as "at swords' points".
