What if Synch Had Become the Starbrand?
Probably not the most scintillating What If?, depending on one's view of Synch. My purpose here really is twofold:
1. Redefine Everett's synchronal aura power. Instead of him using his aura to merely copy the superhuman abilities of others, here the powers that Everett syncs converge in a way to form a "key" that looks like a Starbrand. The key unlocks Everett as a living doorway and conduit to the Superflow. And yes, that is every bit as dangerous a proposition as one might think. Just wait until the Living Tribunal finds out that there is a truly organic Starbrand running around 616 that he can't easily control with a wave of his hand.
2. Save Ev from the curse of the X-men. I always wanted to see him starring on other teams alongside the likes of Captain America, Thor, Silver Surfer, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, the Vision, etc. His decision to follow his dream and leave the X-men is not without consequence. Had he remained with the X-Men, his Starbrand powers would have been the difference between their survival and their death. He'll have to live with that pain for the rest of his life. Their ghosts will make sure of it. (If you see Everett talking to himself, don't automatically assume that he's crazy. He's just talking to the spirits of Skin and Jubilee, and they to him.)