[really it's one of those things where upfront honesty eases mob a little. he thinks admitting to being afraid is a lot braver than acting like you aren't just to seem tough. so his shoulders droop a little and he nods.]

I don't like being near them. It's really scary to imagine we could become like that. [so maybe not as afraid of what they can do, just the reality of them. a little scared of what they can do though.]

Has- [a pause, more because he knows this might be an answer neither one of them wants to hear or say. still.] Has one of the monsters here hurt you before?