He sees that massive claw surging towards him, and there's only a split second for Darkleer to react to it. Everything feels to slow as he twists his body to try and defend himself against the attack. The impact alone makes his arm ache, and he tries to follow the twisting so his limb doesn't suffer more. In the meantime, his other hand tries to tear and loosen that grip.

His feet? He's trying to kick at the highblood's face. Goodness, but he hopes he makes the other lose a few of those ghastly things!