Vincent let out a quiet sigh: nothing new, here.  The first speech was at least short and far less flowery than some he'd suffered (Madame Maxine<em>did</em>tend to go on a little, after all).  In amidst the hustle and bustle at other tables, he caught a glimpse of Yowl...and then Jessica.  Barely preventing a smile from showing on his lips, he turned to regard Jaxon for a moment.<br/><br/>"Excited?  I suppose I am, in a way."<br/><br/>Now he permitted himself that tight half-smile.<br/><br/>"It is something of a relief to, shall we say, forego my prior position.  And you?  You are beside yourself with anticipation, no?"