So, is it still the same, here? [Now she's curious, and she shouldn't be prying because honestly she shouldn't care, but she does.] With the traits of mer you have been developing? Or are those inorganic, as well? [And how does that work, if so? Does she need to do science experiments on him?

Still, as they arrive, she looks out over the ice. Her first order of business is to... step on the ice, where it looks thin, just put a little of her weight on it, to see how thick the ice is.]

Heating the water underneath, but that requires breaking through the ice on top. Perhaps a hammer, or a pick could open a bit of a space? Or, I suppose, I could see if my swords, imbued with fire, will open a hole wide enough.