adversaries
Adversaries are individuals or groups that oppose or compete against each other. This term is often used in various contexts, such as sports, politics, and conflicts. In a competitive setting, adversaries strive to outperform one another, while in a conflict, they may engage in actions to undermine or defeat each other.
In literature and storytelling, adversaries can serve as antagonists, creating tension and driving the plot forward. They challenge the protagonist, represented by characters like heroes or champions, and their interactions often highlight themes of struggle, resilience, and growth.