[ The message begins with a Marcher-ish accent--the cool, crisp tones of the upper classes, but with a precision of enunciation and a slight lilt that speaks to some other influence, harder to place. Her tone is brisk and professional. In the background, the faint cry of gulls. She might be on a ship. ]

Ambassador, Commander, Provost: I hope you do not object to discussing our business via crystal. An agent of mine elsewhere required urgent assistance, and I did not wish to delay our discussion. I am of course willing to answer any questions you might have as to my qualifications for this office, but barring that, I would like to begin by discussing whether there are any plans yet in place in the event that a Divine is elected who is perceived as hostile to many of those who work at this base.