Feeling the little bump gave Xingchen a better idea of the size of his new companion. A smaller creature, though not too small. And a brave one. Xingchen never tried to be particularly intimidating, but he was aware of how tall he was. Although the animal may not have been as scared as others of its kind, it probably still felt some apprehension upon approaching him.

So he slowly squatted down to be closer to the animal's level, holding out a hand to be sniffed. Instead he received a growling tummy, followed by a very discernible sigh. Poor thing. Xingchen smiled sadly. "I know. I disappoint myself, too."

But if this animal approached him despite any fears, it really must have been hungry. Xingchen thought for a moment, then leaned in toward where he thought the animal was. "I can't promise you anything, but I'll see if anyone is selling something you might like." Ah, but different animals ate different things. "Would you eat meat?"

Maybe a silly question. He wouldn't be able to get a clear answer.