Shannon was trusting Remus's word that the drink wasn't as vile as it looked. He fully intended to blame Remus if his faith had been misplaced.

"Merry Christmas," he said, clinking his glass against Remus'. His first tentative sip was offensive, but only in the way that strong alcohol tended to be when not fully prepared for it. His second sip went down more easily.

"I'm glad you both came to your senses. You seem very happy."