I don't know anything about beer either but the story reminded me of my friend because you talk about how he brewed the best ale Aragorn ever had.

Ok, that clears up Aragorn's glare, nothing strange going on. I think I like the grin better, and then they're like "OMG! The king is looking at us, act nonchalant." But they can't help but sneak glances because he's, well, the king! :-)