As with most new pieces of information, Darcy suddenly found himself with many more questions. He wasn't entirely sure that it was the forum for them, although much of that was because of his own sensitivities about discussing war in front of women. That seemed unnecessary, given what she had just told him.
"As she should be," Darcy said simply, giving a little nod of respect. He did not miss the rank, and once again class structure became an incredibly slippery concept around here.
He couldn't help but smile at Ashley's comment on his apartment. "Then you approve of it?" he smiled, because it was a very normal thing for him to say in his own time. Her approval would matter. "Please, take a look around, if it pleases you," he added, seeing how she was holding back from taking a closer look at some of the now old-fashioned objects. It would also give him a moment to address her brother with a more pressing concern.
"Apologies for a potentially insensitive question, but is there a war here currently?" he asked. No one had talked openly about such a thing, but he had met quite a few with military ranks now, and he hadn't felt comfortable asking Miss Sully.
He took a breath, and gave him a nod at his question about settling in. He gestured for him to take a seat as he started to answer. "Yes, indeed. I have been exceptionally fortunate to find everyone is most helpful, keen to answer any questions or offer reassurances," he explained. He needed to get better at asking the questions, and accepting help, but the fact that the offer was there was wonderful. "For every question answered, I find a thousand more to ask."