Max felt something tighten deep within him when the creature said his name, almost like a choke collar or a noose. It was then he realized that this being may not be the best thing to trust. His hair stood on edge, as he saw that the feline was circling him, like he was some kind of prey for the beast. 

"I... Uh"He said, searching for the right set of words that would get him out of this and to safety, "I really don't have anything to offer for a bargain." He said, trying to take a few steps back, "Maybe you could just point me in the direction of somewhere safe?" He asked, checking behind him to see if the path was clear, ready to run if this turned hostile.