‘The Legend of Korra’ Prepares for Battle

This is a review of The Legend of Korra season 4, episode 11.

In the first of its final three episodes, The Legend
of Korra aggressively demonstrates exactly what
it’s willing to sacrifice in order to get what it
wants. This week’s outing, entitled ‘Kuvira’s
Gambit’, gives Team Avatar one of their toughest
opponents yet.
The “Great Uniter” is proving her indomitable
ferocity to do what needs to be done more and
more with each new episode. Kuvira claims she is
doing this to bring together something that
Avatar Aang and former Fire Lord Zuko stole from
the Earth Kingdom. Her goals could almost seem
admirable if it wasn’t for that one small factor
she’s missing – love.
Korra and Aang, respectively, have always had
the love of their friends and family guiding their
actions. Sure, each Avatar has to make quick
decisions while alone, yet their strength comes
from those around them. Every step they take is
carefully placed, knowing that their actions can
either save, or place those they care about in
danger. So, what is Kuvira holding onto?
Unfortunately, Kuvira proved she is loyal to no
one but herself this week, as she used her fiance
to strike an opportune blow on Team Avatar. In
chess, the gambit is sacrificed in order to serve
the greater good, which will hopefully win you the
game. Kuvira’s war against the people of
Republic City is nothing more to her than a game,
which Baatar jr. learned the hard way. We still do
not know the fate of Suyin’s son, but suffice it
say, their betrothal is at an end.
Kuvira has pawns, while Korra has friends and
family. Creators Michael Dante DiMartino and
Bryan Konietzko have proven time and time again
that comradery is essential in any battle plan. If
Korra is going to use a gambit, then it will be her
life that she sacrifices and not those of her
family. Will our Avatar survive the finale battle?
After the spirit vine weapon was fired upon Team
Avatar, the big question has to be whether or not
Baatar jr. survived? If he did, it would seem likely
that he’d be willing to give up all the information
about Kuvira’s weaponry. She and Korra are most
assuredly due for a rematch. Kuvira is a tough
opponent, but Korra has her mojo back after her
encounter with Zaheer. Besides Korra and the
gang, there doesn’t appear to be much outside
help coming. Toph admitted that she and Katara
will sit this one out due to their bad backs. It
appears that saving the world takes a tole on you
after so many years.
The Legend of Korra is almost at an end, but
fortunately for all of us, it looks like the final two
episodes should deliver a compelling conclusion.
What are you most looking forward to seeing?
Keep watching to see what happens next.
The Legend of Korra concludes with ‘Day of the
Colossus’ and ‘The Last Stand’ next Friday on
various streaming services.