In some Pokemon fanfictions, the idea that Ash can't touch Pokemon might be a creative rule set by the author to add an interesting twist. It could be related to some special power or curse within the fictional world they've created.
In some fanfictions, Ash can touch Pokémon to show a deeper bond. It might be a way for the author to create more emotional and physical interactions between Ash and his Pokémon pals, different from the normal anime where physical contact like hugs is not as common.
In the fanfiction, not being able to touch Pokemon would isolate Ash in a way. He couldn't participate in activities like grooming or training that require physical contact. This could make other trainers view him as an outcast, and he'd have to work extra hard to prove his worth as a trainer without the use of physical touch.
Pikachu is a very likely candidate. It's Ash's most iconic Pokemon and has a deep bond with him. Whenever Ash is in trouble, Pikachu often steps up to protect him.
Ash could be a Pokémon trainer with a different starting point in this fanfiction. Born in 1987, by 1997 he might have already made a name for himself in local Pokémon battles. He could have a team of Pokémon that he rescued from difficult situations, like a Charmander that was abandoned by its trainer. His story could revolve around giving these Pokémon a second chance and proving that Pokémon don't need to be 'perfect' to be strong.
The impact of Ash's loss in the fanfiction could extend beyond just himself. His Pokémon might also feel demoralized. However, this could also be an opportunity for them to grow stronger together. Ash could start training more intensively, seek new training methods, or even try to catch new Pokémon to strengthen his team.
One popular type of Pokemon Ash and Pikachu fanfiction might be adventure - based. For example, Ash and Pikachu could embark on a journey to a new and mysterious region filled with undiscovered Pokemon species. They might face challenges like difficult terrains and powerful, previously - unseen Pokemon. In this fanfiction, Pikachu's electric powers could be enhanced in some unique way, and Ash would have to strategize differently to overcome the obstacles.
One popular aspect of Alola fanfiction with Ash could be his growth as a trainer. In the Alola region, Ash had unique experiences. Fanfiction might explore how he further developed his skills, formed new bonds with Pokemon, and interacted with the local culture. For example, his relationship with Pikachu might be delved into deeper, showing how they overcame new challenges together in the Alola setting.
In a fanfiction about Ash born in 1987 and his situation in 1997, we could see an alternate story where Ash is not the typical rookie trainer. Since he's a bit older than in the original, he might be more knowledgeable about Pokémon lore. He could be on a quest to uncover some ancient Pokémon secrets in 1997. He might travel to different regions, not just for battles but also to study old Pokémon texts and artifacts, and along the way, form an unusual team of Pokémon that are attracted to his in - depth knowledge.
Well, it could change the story in many ways. For example, he can directly understand Pokemon's needs and feelings. So he might be able to prevent some Pokemon from getting into dangerous situations more easily. He could also form stronger bonds with his Pokemon team, leading to more effective battle strategies as he knows exactly what they are capable of and what they are thinking.