In the TV series analog to this book, this episode would be the lightweight, quirky, mid-season show that doesn't really seem like it adds to the overall plot but then gets referenced in the season finale as something critical. As has been the pattern, this episode returns to the CDF ambassador team as they continue trying to gain leverage against the Conclave, but then (slightly) morbid hilarity ensues. I did have to Google what a Lhasa apso is, but it is pretty much what I imagined based on the situational context. Entertaining, and a bit of a palate cleanser before (as I understand from next week's description) delving back into the main conflict.