redemption secured... with packing tape

Castle Guard tromps past in sock feet.

he is making his rounds.

i am the Queen; he is my Guardian.

he spots an Intruder (likewise in sock feet).

toy handcuffs enforcing castle law,

Little Brother is taken captive.

plastic snaps and the Intruder escapes.

Queen Mommy is tickled to death.

Toddler-Prince flees for his life.

King Daddy scoops up plastic pieces,

proceeds toward the kitchen cupboard.

a shameful defector's death awaits.

the way is blocked.

with five-year-old hands outstretched,

the Guardian reclaims his broken toy.

picking at the end of the tape,

cutting with safety scissors,

he reflects a new image.

blue eyes beneath furrowed brow,

pink tongue between bared baby teeth,

Castle Guard transforms into Redeemer.

packing tape and a little imagination

hold swapped parts firmly in place.

mission accomplished: redemption secured.