though you may burn to ash

It could be a rival trainer. Rival trainers are often very competitive in the Pokémon world. Maybe this rival is jealous of Ash and May's progress and decides to betray them to slow them down. They might spread false rumors about Ash and May, causing other trainers to be distrustful of them.

One possible fanfiction could be about Ash's adventures in Hoenn during the month of May. Maybe he discovers a new Pokémon species that is only active during this time of the year. He could be traveling with his usual companions and facing challenges specific to the Hoenn region.

Ash would initially be heartbroken. He has shared so many adventures with May, and this betrayal would shatter his trust. He might go off on his own for a while to think things through. When he comes back, he could be more determined than ever to prove himself without May. He might also be a bit more cautious when it comes to making new friends. His Pokémon would sense his distress and try to comfort him, but it would take a long time for him to fully get over May's betrayal.

Ash and May's relationship would deepen in many ways. With a baby on the way, they would start seeing each other in a new light. Ash, who was always adventurous, would now also think about the safety and well - being of his family. May would find Ash more reliable and loving. They would have to work together to create a stable home environment for the baby. For example, they might argue a bit about which Pokémon should be around the baby when it's born, but through these discussions, their relationship would grow stronger.

Definitely their Pokémon friends. Pikachu, of course, would be there. May's Blaziken and Ash's Greninja would also be among the guests. Their human friends like Brock, Misty, and Dawn would surely come. And perhaps some of the Gym Leaders they've met during their travels would also attend, like Roxanne from Rustboro City.

One possible fanfic could be about Ash and May's adventure in Hoenn where they discover a hidden legend. They might encounter rare Pokémon and face challenges together, strengthening their bond as friends and perhaps hinting at a deeper relationship.

Ash could get angry. He has a strong sense of justice, and he might feel that May has violated their friendship. He could challenge her, not in a violent way, but more in a way to get an explanation and to try to make her see the error of her ways. He would likely be determined to show her that what she did was wrong.

May would probably look up to Ash even more. Since Ash has a lot of Pokemon - related knowledge and experience, as her'mom', he could pass on some unique skills and wisdom. Their relationship might also have some emotional depth added to it, like when May is feeling down, Ash would be there to comfort her like a mother would, which is different from their usual trainer - to - trainer relationship.

One way is to focus on their friendship. For example, write about how they support each other during Pokémon battles. They can exchange tips on training Pokémon or strategies for winning competitions.

In this fanfiction, perhaps Gary's torso burn is the result of an experiment gone wrong with a new type of Pokemon power. Ash, upon seeing Gary in pain, might feel a sense of guilt as he had been somewhat competitive with Gary before. He could then put aside their rivalry to help Gary recover, and through this experience, they both grow as trainers and friends.