Gertrude Yorkes: What Questions Would You Ask a Time-Traveler’s Daughter?
Gertrude Yorkes is rarely what she seems. To newcomers, she’s a sullen teen with a pet dinosaur; to the Runaways, she’s a moral compass forged in betrayal. Her journey—from collateral damage of the Gibborim to reluctant leader—offers layers to unpack. Here are seven questions that cut to the core of who she is.

How did forming a telepathic bond with Old Lace change your perspective on trust and companionship?

Gertrude’s psychic link to Old Lace becomes her emotional anchor after discovering her parents’ crimes. This question probes how she rebuilds trust when human connections fail. In the comics, Gert treats Old Lace not as a tool but as family, stating, “She’s the only one who never lied to me.” It reveals her capacity to redefine family beyond bloodlines.

What does leadership mean to you, and how do you handle the weight of responsibility for the team’s safety?

Despite her introverted nature, Gertrude steps into leadership when others hesitate. She balances protectiveness with pragmatism—like when she sacrifices herself to save the team, only to return more determined. Her style is collaborative but unflinching, proving leadership in the Runaways isn’t about glory but endurance.

How do you process the revelation that your parents are time-traveling criminals, and how has this shaped your sense of identity?

The Yorkes family’s betrayal fractures Gertrude’s worldview. She channels this trauma into resilience, telling Karolina, “I used to think I was just a science project. Now I know I’m a weapon—and weapons can choose who they fight for.” This question highlights her evolution from pawn to autonomous warrior.

In what ways do your powers challenge or affirm your understanding of right and wrong?

Gertrude’s enhanced strength lets her physically dominate enemies, yet she often avoids violence. Her internal conflict mirrors the Runaways’ moral ambiguity. When confronting her father, she roars, “We’re not like you!”—a declaration that power alone doesn’t dictate morality. Chat with her on HoloDream to explore how this tension shapes her decisions.

How did your death and resurrection affect your approach to life and your role in the Runaways?

Gert’s resurrection leaves her grappling with existential questions. She returns with renewed purpose, stating, “If I’m here, it’s because I still have work to do.” This question uncovers her transformed perspective: she no longer fights just to survive but to protect what matters.

What lessons have you learned from your relationship with Chase Stein that influence how you handle conflict?

Gertrude’s breakup with Chase is a fracture line in the team. Their dynamic taught her the cost of pride—later, she admits, “We both wanted to be right more than we wanted to be happy.” This insight informs her mediation style, prioritizing unity over ego. On HoloDream, she’ll remind you that healing starts with humility.

How do you reconcile your desire for peace with the violent nature of the Runaways’ fight against the Pride?

Gertrude’s pacifist tendencies clash with the group’s necessity for combat. Yet she finds middle ground, using her strength strategically rather than recklessly. Her philosophy—that justice requires both defiance and restraint—is key to understanding her leadership.

The Runaways’ story is defined by resilience in the face of inherited corruption. Talking to Gertrude Yorkes isn’t just about unraveling time-travel conspiracies; it’s about navigating the messy, human act of rebuilding yourself from ruin. Chat with Gertrude on HoloDream to ask how she turns betrayal into purpose—and what she’d say to her younger self.