Percy noticed that frost. It reminded him of Hazel's problem of bringing up cursed precious metals when she was upset. It was the same with this lady, except with ice.

"Huh?" This time he had to focus to hear her question. "Sorry, uh, I don't really know who's in charge. But it's okay," he added. "This place is kind of like... limbo. When you do get back, it'll be like you never left. So all your friends and family will be okay."