He's immensely reassured when the creature speaks. Huaisang knew he had no hope of dealing with a feral, savage monster, and he doubted that his soldiers could handle such a creature without significant cost. But Huaisang feels much better about his chances being able to deal with something that talks.

"Do I?" he asks, puzzled, because he's not sure what that signifies or what he's supposed to do about it. He's bathed this morning, so he knows he's plenty clean. Maybe the tiangou doesn't like his soap. "I hope it's not unpleasant for you. It's, um. Nice to meet you. I think. Is there something you like to be called?"