The Sand Castle

The Sandcastle

Bits of scattered light
shine bright upon my knees;
a splash of sandy freckles
as I play.

The open ocean roars,
in dragon's garb of green;
capricious talons raking the beach
reach toward me.

Turrets with oyster oriels,
streaming seaweed standards,
watch the salty surge
with a sense of urgency;
should it breach the walls,
the castle falls.

Salt and spray sail through the air,
assaulting the fortress of sand,
vaulting the defenses
and dampening dreams.

Too soon the call of retreat
to sun-warmed towels
pulls my warrior guise
from the battlefield;
I must yield the victory.

Poseidon's reign continues
until again, I can challenge
with bucket and bravery.

An entry for Round 55, "Shadows and Light Poetry Contest" 
Prompt: Open
Line Count: 26
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