There are many levels to Benedict's hesitation, but he seems thankful to Julius for putting some of them into words, nodding lightly along with him. It's only after he's given room to speak again that he falters, opening his mouth and closing it at least twice before he admits,

"I've never met a Tranquil before." He purses his lips closed after the fact, lacing his fingers together a little too tightly.

"Is she in pain? Do you know?"