He wanted to test how his physical attributes compared to superior-rank creatures at similar levels.
This would be pure skill, strength, and speed against natural armor and predatory instincts.
The beetle's diving attack came with the force of a falling boulder, its golden carapace gleaming as it aimed to crush Arthur beneath its considerable mass. Arthur sidestepped at the last possible moment, his katana flashing upward in a precise arc.
CLANG!
The blade struck the beetle's side armour with a sound like a bell being struck. To Arthur's satisfaction, what should have been an impenetrable defence showed visible damage—a large crack caused a spider-web illusion across the golden surface where his sword had made contact.
