[Intro – Sparse piano, a sustained high violin note trembling underneath] (softly, to herself) SERAPHINE: They used to call me holy... Now even the mirror hesitates. [Verse 1 – Gentle, weary] I painted on my smile with gold, Spoke in blessings I was told. Light in hand, and head held high— But you can’t see stars when you forget the sky. [Verse 2 – Deeper, voice catching on certain words] They cheered when I would draw my blade, Every crack I hid—so well portrayed. "Look at her grace," they said. "She’s divine!" But my prayers taste like rust, and ash, and wine. [Chorus – Swelling strings, yet controlled; grief tightly held] My halo’s cracked… and no one sees. They worship what they want from me. But I am tired, so tired of this role, Each miracle carving out my soul. I used to shine—so pure, so bright... But I don't sleep through the night. And every wish I grant just bleeds A little more of me. [Instrumental interlude – slow cello line under flickering piano] [Verse 3 – Bitter-sweet, almost a whisper] They send the new ones to my side, Eyes so wide with stars and pride. And I smile—because I must... But all gold turns to dust. [Bridge – Voice sharpens, trembling] I have seen what comes for us, Not in battle—in reflection. One by one we fade away, And call it resurrection. [Chorus – Louder, unrestrained emotion; orchestral crash like breaking glass] My halo’s cracked… and no one stays. They turn their heads, avoid my gaze. Because if I can break, they might too— And I know that fear. I do. But still I rise and raise my blade, Hiding how I’m frayed and frayed. Because someone must hold the line... Even as she falls out of time. [Outro – Soft again, nearly broken, like a final breath] So let them bow, let them believe— That I am everything they need. Even if it’s all an act... Even if... my halo’s cracked.
