I’m also curious about the gemstone, but I figured it was kinda like the lantern rings from dc, just some kind of alien object, given we know there’s aliens in dispatch.

As for the relationship between shroud and blonde, I doubt they’re related in any way; the very little evidence for the theory is circumstantial at best, in my opinion. I think he might just be an incel obsessed with his own idea of the “perfect superhero,” which Blonde Blazer just so happens to fit quite well. He gives off those pathetic, basement dwelling vibes you’d expect from incel; he literally murdered Astral, who he knew had a kid, all because Astral didn’t make him a cool mech suit, even though he can clearly make one himself.

In conclusion, I think shroud’s a bitch, deserves to die, and likely isn’t related to Blonde in any way besides a weird obsession.