Istredd can use magic to bail himself out if it's looking bad but at the moment he is going to attempt to fight without it. Lucifer isn't wrong that this is one of the few times he can train in physical altercations. He spent a lot of time feeling helpless recently specifically because he lost his magic and it can be a crutch.

He doesn't have Lucifer's strength to fall back on either so he has to be smart. He pushes the creature back a step and anticipates another lunge so he spins to the side as it leaps quickly where he just was. Lightning fast with those claws so he'll have to stay out of them.

You are severely underestimating what I would tolerate for a kiss from you. It's more the gore that bothers him, the guts. It's not his favorite idea but he has never given up a chance to kiss Lucifer and he never will. He's a simple man that way.

Istredd is well aware of the eyes on him which could be distracting but it makes him focus instead. Lucifer's attention is something he always wants. But it wouldn't be good for either of them if the Kucing rips out his throat because of a wrong turn. He remembers what he's heard of this so the mild hypnotic tail does nothing.

Lucifer will recognize his own fighting style here, Istredd rarely uses what he learned sixty years ago from the Brotherhood. There is even a little grace in how he bobs and weaves, staying away from the claws, searching for openings instead of impulsively exposing himself. He uses the blunt side of the spear more than the point at first to knock it around, his stance defensive instead.

What will you give me if I manage to kill this without magic? He thinks his odds are good.