The X-Men are frequently targeted by a cruel and unjust world, in a way even other heroes can't always understand. This is how charming and personable figures like Nightcrawler (AKA Kurt Wagner) could find themselves condemned and hated for simply existing -- preventing some purely heroic destinies he may have experienced otherwise.
Nightcrawler's long-established love for swashbuckling and adventure would make him a natural friend to Thor and his allies, the Warriors Three. In fact, in one reality, Nightcrawler impressed the group enough that they even allowed him to join their group.
Nightcrawler has long been established as a fan of the swashbuckling aesthetic. Growing up in a European carnival, Nightcrawler developed a great deal of showmanship. When he gained a holographic disguise, he chose a look similar to Errol Flynn, his favorite swashbuckling movie star. While using the Danger Room, Nightcrawler created exciting pirate adventures to throw himself and his teammates into. His adventurous spirit is something that he shares with the Warriors Three of Asgard. Long-time companions and friends of Thor, the trio of Hogun, Fandral, and Volstagg have embarked on plenty of adventures over the years as traveling heroes. In theory, Nightcrawler could fit right in with this group -- and in a notable reality, he did just that.
What If...? #12 (by Jim Valentino) deviated from the core Marvel canon when the X-Men and New Mutants found themselves stranded in Asgard. Some of the mutants ultimately decided that they preferred to remain in Asgard, and made new lives for themselves in the enchanted realm. This included Nightcrawler, who was thoroughly enamored with the swords and sorcery of the land. Eventually, he and Sunspot of the New Mutants became a duo, fighting against brigands and criminals across Asgard as heroes, finding themselves naturally accepted in a way they never were on Earth.
Nightcrawler became a consistent hero and took part in the epic battle against Hela's forces for the fate of Asgard. Although Sunspot was killed in the battle, Nightcrawler survived to see Thor, Storm, and the rest of the mutants lead Asgard to victory and a newly formed unity among the realms. While Fandril -- who'd fallen in love with Rogue -- decided that he was finally content and gave up his wandering ways to be with her. Nightcrawler took his place among the Warriors Three and became one of Asgard's most reliable champions, and giving the newly dubbed Queen of Asgard, Storm, a reliable ally to call upon in times of need.
It's a bittersweet reflection of what could have been for Nightcrawler. Ever since Kurt visited Asgard, he grew as a leader and a man. Confronting his own mortality and morality to reach his current place as a prophet of the Spark, member of the ruling Quiet Council, and spiritual leader among the X-Men. But perhaps in another time and place, he could have instead embraced a life of pure adventure. The kind that would allow a devilish figure like himself to still be seen as a hero by people who are undisturbed by his unique and strange appearance. He could have truly found a second home with Thor's best friends and might have enjoyed a simpler life because of it. However, his importance to the future of the mutant race and duty as a noble leader means that such a life can never be within his reach.
