I arrived at the king's chambers with the aid of the same guard who directed me to the kitchen. As I walked away, he inquired as to whether or not I'd succeeded in neutering myself. I could hear him trying to stifle a laugh. . . he's officially made my shit-list.
The king seemed rather surprised at how early I had awoken. He said all of the previous stallions in my position had often been slow to rise, and the wake-up call at four was to ensure they were up at six. I told him that the only reason I was awake was because of my insomnia brought upon by troubled thoughts. I then proceeded to ask if any sort of sleeping potion existed, which might cure my plight. He said he would see if he could commission an alchemist or two to develop one. When I suggested that I aid in the research, he laughed for one reason or another. Confused, I began to aid the king in preparing for the day, helping him chose what royal raiment to wear, heating a bath for him, etcetera, etcetera. All the while, I told him of the grand ideas I had in store for my tenure as royal wizard. Each one just seemed to make him laugh harder. At least once, he said I was more brilliant than my father. This was obviously a compliment, so perhaps the laughter was based in pride? I'm unsure, but perhaps more will be made clear later on today.
Addendum: The king says I'll have plenty of work to do in the main hall. Again, I am confused. Would a royal wizard not have a private tower to work from? Anyways, I must stop writing as I now have work to do. Work for the king! And what glorious work it shall be. . .