Maybe a group of outcast Pokémon that Ash befriends. These Pokémon are not the typical ones that he would encounter with his friends. Through befriending them, Ash learns about different values and ways of life in the Pokémon world, adding new dimensions to his character development.
A mysterious Pokémon whisperer might appear. This character could have the ability to communicate with Pokémon in a unique way and help Ash better understand his Pokémon, which in turn helps him grow as a trainer during his time without his friends.
He could make friends with Dawn. She's a well - known character in Sinnoh and her knowledge of Pokémon contests could be really helpful to Ash. Another potential friend could be Barry. His energetic and competitive nature would make for some interesting interactions with Ash.
There could be a new rival for Ash. This rival might have a very different approach to Pokemon training, like focusing more on the beauty and grace of Pokemon rather than just battle strength.
There could be an American wizard who takes Harry under his wing, like a gruff but kind old wizard named Alistair. He could teach Harry about American magic in a no - nonsense way.
There could be a lone traveler who Ash meets while he is alone. This traveler might have a unique way of training Pokemon that Ash has never seen before and could teach him some new tricks.
There could be a new trainer who has a very different style of training Pokémon compared to Ash. Maybe a young girl who uses music to communicate with her Pokémon. Another potential character could be an old Pokémon sage who has a vast knowledge of ancient Pokémon lore and can offer Ash some valuable advice on his journey.
There could be a female mentor who takes Ash under her wing because she sees potential in her as a girl in a male - dominated world. This mentor could teach her unique skills and ways of dealing with Pokémon. Another potential new character could be a rival who is also a girl and has a different view on how to compete in the Pokémon world compared to Ash. They could have some interesting battles and exchanges of ideas.
Ash could make friends with local Pokémon researchers in Rota. They might share their knowledge about Pokémon behavior native to the area with him.
There could be new characters introduced, like a wandering mage who also has a troubled past. This mage could understand Natsu's feelings of abandonment and they could become friends. Also, a character from a different guild that has always admired Natsu from afar might reach out to him.
The fanfiction might also explore Ash's inner turmoil. He could struggle with self - doubt, thinking that he was not a good enough friend. However, as he faces various challenges on his own, he realizes his own worth and that the abandonment was more about his friends' own issues rather than his shortcomings.
Potential characters might include a new group of Pokémon thieves that Ash has to deal with. Also, there could be a local Pokémon healer who becomes an important part of the story. There might be some young Pokémon enthusiasts who look up to Ash and join him on his adventures. Another possibility is a reclusive Pokémon trainer who has some rare Pokémon and Ash tries to learn from them.