I wonder if starting with Nerekehall expansions might release simultaneously with their lieutenant figures.

Okay, I've been thinking about the Rune Plate problem and comparing it to other armors, and I think I've come up with a solution that allows it to keep the same basic mechanics, and only changes two things: Lower both defense dice by one step so its default is treated as a brown, and it gets a grey with a rune. This allows you to do minimal changes to the card, while still keeping it as a useful item, comparable to other items of similar cost.

Does this seem reasonable?

I'm sure there are some people who would be interested in it.  I'm not sure I would want to use a recording at the table myself, but I'd at least be interested to hear it.
 
 
 
FFG is usually pretty easy-going about letting fans do what they want, in my experience.  That said, you should definitely contact them to ask if they have any objections.  It's only polite.
 
 
 
The obvious solution would be to find a woman willing to do some voice work for you.  If you don't know any women into voice acting (or board games, or both) locally, you could always ask around online.  As long as they have their own recording equipment, they don't really need to be local.
 
I would personally seek permission from FFG before dragging anyone else into the project, though.