The Grand Golden Phoenix Ballroom, located in the central wing of Beijing's interconnected hotel complex, glittered beneath the opulent glare of dozens of Bohemian crystal chandeliers casting golden flashes across the polished marble. The gala dinner, organized by the ISU to close the Grand Prix's sixth venue, was a display of international etiquette where designer suits and evening gowns replaced the athletic delegations' usual team colors. The constant hum of officials, live chamber music performed by a string quartet, and the clinking of champagne flutes created an atmosphere of ease and celebration that felt alien—almost violent—to the tournament's undisputed champion.
