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{{ship}}
'''PokéShipping''' (Japanese: '''サトカス''' ''SatoKasu'') is the ship between [[Ash Ketchum]] and {{an|Misty}} and is historically one of the most prolific pairings within the Pokémon franchise, alongside [[AmourShipping]] and [[RocketShipping]], to the point that it is even named after the franchise. It is also one of the few pairings that has been officially recognized by The Pokémon Company and can be followed across many of the anime adaptations, including the manga and novelizations.
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[[Image:Pokeship.jpg|250px|thumb|Ash and Misty in the [[Electric Tale of Pikachu]] {{pkmn|manga}}]]
'''PokéShipping''' (Japanese: '''サトカス''' ''SatoKasu'') is one of many names given to the couple of {{Ash}} and {{an|Misty}}, supported by many fans of the [[Pokémon anime]]. In the early years, PokéShipping was the most popular Ship in the fandom; it still maintains a strong following to this day, along with {{s|Advance}}, {{s|Contest}}, and {{s|Pearl}}.  
{{spoilers}}


==Anime evidence==
Ash and Misty first encountered each other in ''[[EP001|Pokémon, I Choose You!]]''. Misty was [[fishing]] in a river, and she hooked {{Ash}} and his injured {{AP|Pikachu}} who had been chased by a flock of {{p|Spearow}}. After pointing Ash in the direction of the nearest [[Pokémon Center]], he borrowed her [[bicycle]]. They reunited in ''[[EP002|Pokémon Emergency]]'' when Misty arrived at the Pokémon Center with her broken bicycle, demanding that Ash pay her back, saying she'd continue to follow him until he does. As the series progressed, the pair developed a strong bond and had many adventures together, with Misty being the primary female protagonist through the [[Kanto]] [[region]], the [[Orange Archipelago]] and the [[Johto]] region with Ash. Misty continues to make reappearances in subsequent series as well since her departure.
In the beginning, Pikachu "fried" Misty's bike, and she then held Ash responsible. Misty began to follow Ash to make sure he would pay off his debt to her. They bickered constantly, but, needless to say, their friendship grew stronger as the series progressed. They relied on each other not only for friendship, but for support as well. Many fans have taken quotes and actions by characters as evidence for PokéShipping in the anime, however some of this evidence appears only in the dub version and can still be taken as friendship depending on your point of view. In the original Japanese, the dialogue is read as a friendship between Ash and Misty with no romantic undertones however the writers in Japan have stated there is a mild crush going on but they are too young to realize their feelings. In a reverse fashion, many of the quotes in support of PokéShipping in the Japanese version were changed completely when translated into the English dub to come across more like friendship.


===Misty's hints===
==History==
Most other Shippers tend to agree that Misty's love for Ash is undeniable. This evidence became most prevalent during the Orange Season, long before it became occasional to set upon Ash a girl who becomes infatuated with him.
[[File:Ash Misty Hold Hands.png|250px|thumb|Ash and Misty holding hands in ''[[EP020|The Ghost of Maiden's Peak]]'']]
===Indigo League===
Despite Misty's initial insistence that she is only following Ash until he pays for her bike, in ''[[EP003|Ash Catches a Pokémon]]'', she admires his deep love and care for Pokémon. Early on in their journey, she primarily serves as a tutor to Ash, explaining how the [[Badge]] system works, even assisting him in battles and training. From the beginning, she is happy to offer her own Pokémon to support Ash in his battles, such as seen in ''[[EP005|Showdown in Pewter City]]''.


* ''[[EP003|Ash Catches a Pokémon]]''
Despite Misty's best efforts to convince Ash to pass by [[Cerulean City]], when they do make it, Misty's sister, {{an|Daisy}}, questions if the pair of them have become a couple, which embarrasses Misty. And, when the group reaches [[Pokémon Tech]], Misty becomes frustrated with Ash and Brock when the pair become infatuated with [[Giselle]].
: Ash, willing to continue his journey alone, is followed by Misty. Upon noticing her pursuing him in [[Viridian Forest]], Ash puts her on the spot and asks her, "Why are you still following me?" Misty sweatdrops and unconvincingly stutters back, "M...My [[bike]]! I'm holding you responsible for my bike!" in an insincere manner.


: Why she is following him is made apparent near the end of the episode where she says, "I've never known anyone like him. He really does love Pokémon." She does so in body language befitting that of an infatuated girl. Also, in her statement, it is pretty much implied that she has some sort of interest in knowing Ash, who, at this point, is someone she barely knows. Furthermore, in this and the next episode, Misty seems very eager to make physical (if not courtly) contact with Ash.
At the end of ''[[EP020|The Ghost of Maiden's Peak]]'', during the festival, Ash begins to see Misty in a different light, and common romantic tropes occur, such as a bubbly background and romantic harp strings. When Misty invites Ash to dance, he happily accepts by taking her hand. The pair are shown holding hands again during ''[[EP023|The Tower of Terror]]'' while traversing the mist on their way to [[Lavender Town]]. When Ash decides to investigate the [[Pokémon Tower|tower]] alone, he is knocked out by a falling chandelier. Outside, Misty voices her concerns to Brock about letting Ash and Pikachu enter the tower alone. When the pair go inside and find Ash unconscious, Misty is visibly upset, holding Ash in her arms before he regains consciousness. Misty and Ash continue to remain very protective of each other, always showing concern at any risk of injury and supporting each other through their hardships and battles throughout the series.


*''[[EP007|The Water Flowers of Cerulean City]]''
During a scene from ''[[EP036|The Bridge Bike Gang]]'', Brock unknowingly pins Ash to his seat at the Pokémon Center and Misty has a frightened look on her face. Later, in the same scene, Misty is seen trying to free Ash, with Pikachu's help.
: Misty tells {{an|Daisy}} that she's back home because of Ash. The remark makes Daisy think Ash and Misty are a couple, which causes Misty to blush an intense shade of red. Also the episodes before this, while trying to get Ash to avoid coming to this city would suggest other locations, often stating because they are "so romantic".


*''[[EP009|The School of Hard Knocks]]''
By the time Ash, Misty and Brock reach [[Cinnabar Island]], she'd forgotten that she started to follow Ash because of her bike, indication that the two had developed a strong friendship. Misty continues supporting Ash as he battles through the [[Indigo Plateau Conference]], and attempts to cheer him up when he loses to [[Ritchie]], before losing her temper with him.
: While Ash and {{an|Brock}} fall into infatuation with [[Giselle]], Misty gets angry. Some say that she was jealous because of Ash, while others say that it was because of {{s|Gym|Brock}}.


*''[[EP012|Here Comes The Squirtle Squad]]''
[[Image:PokeShipping 3.png|thumb|325px|right|Misty is annoyed when Melody flirts with Ash]]
: When Ash gets caught in an explosion to protect {{AP|Squirtle}}, she screams Ash's name, while Brock just stares.


*''[[EP020|The Ghost of Maiden's Peak]]''
===Orange League===
: When the ghost skulls attack them, Misty grabs Ash's arm and holds on to him tightly. Ash never seems to have any problem with this, if anything looking like he wanted to be comforted, suggesting that they both look to each other when they are scared and are not embarrassed by this.
Ash, Misty, and Brock travel onwards to the [[Orange Archipelago]], with Brock leaving them early on to help at [[Professor Ivy]]'s laboratory. During ''[[EP083|Poké Ball Peril]]'', [[Team Rocket]] comment that they've caught "a pair of very romantic creatures" and how Misty and Ash are "lovebirds," which they both deny. A sub-theme during this arc is the closeness of their relationship, culminating in Misty admitting to herself her feelings for Ash in the [[M02|second movie]]. Other characters who also comment on their closeness include [[Danny]], the [[Navel Island]] [[Gym Leader]], {{Tracey}} and {{OBP|Melody|M02}}.
: At the end of the episode, Misty invites Ash to dance. When Ash accepts, she takes his hand and they are then seen dancing together as the episode ends.


*''[[EP023|The Tower of Terror]]''
The events of ''[[EP103|Misty Meets Her Match]]'', are another key episode that people supporting PokéShipping point to, despite [[Rudy]]'s interest in Misty and their impromptu date, she continues to cheer for Ash in their gym battle. Recognizing her feelings for Ash at the culmination of their battle, Rudy comments to himself that "She wants him."
: At the beginning of the episode, Ash, Brock and Misty are walking through the mist on their way to Lavender Town and Brock says they should probably hold hands. Ash and Misty eagerly reply, "Okay!" The two of them hold hands and continue walking, but Brock, who came up with the idea, mistook Pikachu's tail for Ash's hand; Only Ash and Misty are holding hands. Also, when Brock grabs Pikachu's tail because he can't see through the mist, Pikachu fires an electric attack out of fear and Misty grabs onto Ash.  


:Later, when Misty thought that Ash had died, she is driven to almost tears, but is interrupted by Ash who comes back to life and she wipes her nose and blushes.
===Johto===
During ''[[EP198|The Heartbreak of Brock]]'', while giving Brock a pep talk about pursuing a relationship with [[Temacu]], Misty responds, "Take it from me, it's a lot easier to like someone who likes you than to like someone who doesn't." Brock then asks her, "How do you know?", after which Misty gasps, blushes, then coyly replies, "Well, that's...what I've heard...".


*''[[EP043|March of the Exeggutor Squad]]''
Misty notices when others show an interest in Ash, such as in ''[[EP267|Love, Pokémon Style]]'' when Macy invites Ash out to lunch, interrupting her saying that Ash is "booked." Later in the same scene, Macy questions Misty's right to interfere in Ash's personal affairs as she's not his girlfriend. Misty looks quite unimpressed as Macy continues flirting with Ash.
: When Misty sees Ash lying unconscious on the ground, she panics and runs to his side, begging Pikachu to "do something."


*''[[EP046|Attack of the Prehistoric Pokémon]]''
When Misty, Ash and Brock split up in ''[[EP273|Gotta Catch Ya Later!]]'', initially she is upset that Ash doesn't seem to care that the three of them will be going their own ways. However, by the episode's conclusion, as they think back on their journey together, they're all upset, but concede they will always be the best of friends. As a parting gift, Misty gives Ash a handkerchief, which is customary in Japan and other East Asian cultures, to "wipe away tears" when someone leaves your life (e.g. a death, a breakup, or saying goodbye to a good friend).
: When Misty, Brock, and Squirtle are digging through the rocks to save Ash, Misty, in the dub, says to herself "Listen Ash you'd better hold on, don't forget you still owe me a new bike!" Also in the original Japanese Misty says Ash had better not die on her. Suggesting that she needs to reassure herself that Ash is okay.


* ''[[EP059|Volcanic Panic]]''
===Post Original Series===
: One of the clearest examples to fans of Misty's growing feelings towards Ash in the Indigo League, would be the fact that she completely forgot about her bike being destroyed by Ash, supposedly being the only reason for her traveling with him.
After their initial adventure, the pair are always excited to see each other and continue traveling together for short lengths. This is seen during their time together at the [[Mirage Kingdom]] in [[Hoenn]], traveling to the {{gdis|Battle Factory|III}} in Kanto or reuniting when they meet up during the series, {{series|Sun & Moon}}. This is last seen in their final reunion in ''[[JN138|A Fated Face-Off!]]'', where the two not only reunite but engage in large amounts of friendly banter before traveling together again one last time from this episode until ''[[JN147|The Rainbow and the Pokémon Master!]]'', alongside Brock.  


* ''[[EP083|Poké Ball Peril]]''
Misty has also watched Ash compete in the [[Ever Grande Conference]] from afar in ''[[AG126|Saved by the Beldum]]'' and ''[[AG128|Shocks and Bonds]]'', and later watched Ash face Leon in ''[[JN132|Partners in Time!]]''.  
:  Near the end of the episode, with Brock having left Ash and Misty to travel alone, [[James]] says, "I think we may have captured a pair of romantic creatures in our little cage," after which [[Jessie]] swoons and {{MTR}} blurts out, "They're lovebirds!" Ash and Misty deny it all.


: The idea of Ash and Misty as a couple becomes a sub-theme throughout the subsequent Orange League Season, culminating into events in the second movie.
Ash also has a [[Misty's special lure|special lure]] featuring Misty's likeness that he received as a gift from her and has been seen using it on numerous occasions, carrying it with him throughout his adventures. He notably replaces it with Cilan's lure in ''[[JN138|A Fated Face Off!]]'' in front of Misty, and jokingly insists Cilan's lure is superior, provoking the latter.


* ''[[EP093|Navel Maneuvers]]''
==Other media==
: [[Danny]], the [[Navel Island]] [[Gym Leader]], quickly picks up on the nature of Ash and Misty's relationship during one of their arguments and says, "I can see the two of you are pretty close." After Misty asks what he meant by that, he replied, "What's that saying? 'You always hurt the one you love...'"
[[File:PokéShipping EToP.png|thumb|250px|Ash and Misty in [[The Electric Tale of Pikachu]]]]
[[File:Spurt Card Ash loves Misty.png|thumb|250px|Misty and Delia, featured on the Queen of Hearts Card in the tenth Japanese OP, [[Spurt!]]]]
===[[The Electric Tale of Pikachu]]===
In the {{pkmn|manga}} series [[The Electric Tale of Pikachu]], based on the anime, Ash has a canonical crush on {{Gary}}'s older sister, [[Daisy Oak|May]]. However, he occasionally shows attraction towards Misty as well. When Misty learns about Daisy Oak, she teases Ash about being attracted to older women and wonders if she should be careful (she is 12 in this adaptation).


* ''[[EP100|Wherefore Art Thou, Pokémon]]''
Over the course of the manga, their interest in each other is played up, including in ''[[ET02|Play Misty For Me]]'' where Ash finds Misty eye-catching, especially when he first sees her in her Gym uniform, which happens to be a swimsuit. In the same chapter, Misty's sisters tease her about being attracted to younger men.
: After {{oi|Ralph}}'s {{p|Nidoran♂|Tony}} and {{oi|Emily}}'s {{p|Nidoran♀|Maria}} kiss and evolve, {{Tracey}} comments about whether the battle or the kiss made them evolve. The idea of kissing embarrasses Misty and provokes Ash to ask the question, "Do people change when they get kissed?" after which Misty answers to him, "Guess we'll have to find out ourselves..." Earlier in the episode, Tracey compared the interaction between the Nidoran's Trainers to the relationship between Misty and Ash (although both vehemently deny it).


*''[[EP101|Get Along, Little Pokémon!]]''
For the adaption of the [[Trovita Island]] Gym battle against [[Rudy]] in ''[[ET16|You Bet Your Wife]]'', when [[Rudy]] proposes to Misty, Ash calls him a "creep" and tells him that "if you want Misty, you'll have to go through me first!". Misty blushes and wonders if Ash is in love with her, and seems disappointed when Ash goes on to politely ask Rudy for a formal badge challenge.
: As the storm comes Misty collapses from exhaustion and Ash is shown in the next scene to be holding her by the waist as he helps her to the safety of the rock.
: Misty yells, "Be careful, Ash!" before he goes to save the {{p|Magnemite}}. Misty has done this on many occasions.


* ''[[EP102|The Mystery Menace]]''
In ''[[ET20|Epilogue: Wild Type]]'', in a letter he writes home to his mother, Ash recounts his adventures in the Orange Islands and brief glimpses are shown. These include a panel with Ash and Misty facing each other, blushing furiously, in the scene, Ash asks, "Which jacuzzi...was this?". In the letter, Ash describes this moment as "some other stuff too..." saying "I can't tell '''Mom''' about ''that''!".
: When Misty sees the monster behind Ash, she screams in fear it might hurt him. When Ash turns around, she yells at him to do something. Tracey is completely silent while all of this is happening.
: After Ash passes out from fear, Misty is shown kneeling by his side, watching him to make sure he's okay. Tracey is standing by the creature.  


* ''[[EP103|Misty Meets Her Match]]''
===Music===
: This entire episode alone serves as conclusive evidence that Misty not only likes Ash but possibly has developed a case of young love for him. [[Rudy]], the [[Trovita Island]] Gym Leader, has a case of "love at first sight" with Misty after she saves his sister, [[Mahri]]. After several advances from Rudy, Misty agrees to what is essentially an impromptu date with Rudy, leaving Ash and Tracey to themselves.  
* [[Misty's Song]] is a song from the ''[[Pokémon 2.B.A. Master]]'' soundtrack in which Misty sings about her feelings for Ash but is afraid she'll be rejected, culminating in her saying that she loves him.


: According to accounts of the original Japanese version, during the dance after the date, Rudy not only asked Misty to stay on the island, but to marry him. What is significant here is that Misty was actually considering his proposal, evidenced by the fact that she didn't refuse him outright. Throughout Ash's gym battle with Rudy, Misty is clearly torn between deciding which boy meant more to her, finally rooting for Ash in the end as {{AP|Squirtle}} is hit by a {{m|Thunderbolt}} from Rudy's {{p|Starmie}}. Rudy, in shock mutters, "She wants ''him.''"
* On the ''[[Pokémon Christmas Bash]]'' CD, there are two songs that show strong evidence of her feelings towards Ash.
** The first song on the CD entitled ''{{OBP|Pokémon Christmas Bash|song}}'' has the three main characters along with Team Rocket singing about what they want for Christmas. In Misty's stanza, she sings about how the only thing on her wishlist is a dance with Ash.
** Another song on the CD called ''[[Under the Mistletoe]]'' has Misty singing about how she wants Ash to know her feelings for him and how she wants to meet Ash under the mistletoe. On the other hand, Ash is singing about how he hopes not to be caught under the mistletoe. Near the song's end, after leaving Ash feeling paranoid about the mistletoe, Misty has got Ash under the mistletoe. Ash realizes this, freaks out, and runs off to eat more cookies while leaving Misty wondering what his problem is.


*''[[EP107|Charizard Chills]]''
* [[He Drives Me Crazy]] is a song from ''[[Totally Pokémon]]'' and ''[[Pokémon 3: The Ultimate Soundtrack]]'' that is sung from Misty's perspective, although it was not sung by [[Rachael Lillis]]. This song highlights the feelings that Misty has but does not understand.
: When Charizard was thrashing around wildly, Misty tried to run to Ash's aid, and was only held back by Tracey.
: When Misty finds out that Ash's hands were rubbed raw, she gave up her blanket so Ash's hands wouldn't get any worse.


*''[[EP110|The Stun Spore Detour]]''
* [[It Takes Two]] is a song used to advertise {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}}. Mostly in reference to the new [[Double Battle]] feature, but it features Ash and Misty singing about how well they work as a team.
: Every time that Tracey and Ash need attention Misty comes to Ash first or expresses more concern for Ash.


*''[[EP124|Snubbull Snobbery]]''
===[[Pocket Monsters: The Animation]]===
: Misty finds a star map, and Ash says, "I know where the stars are, Misty." Misty giggles and blushes after that remark.
[[Takeshi Shudō]]'s novelization contains numerous scenes and internal character monologues that were not in the anime, and several of these relate to Ash and Misty's relationship. These monologues include Misty reflecting on her romantic fantasies of the ideal man and compares Ash unfavorably to that fantasy while acknowledging that Ash is the first boy she's spent a significant amount of time with.


*''[[EP170|A Better Pill To Swallow]]''
In Chapter 2 of the second volume, Ash and Misty encounter an old man in the archaeological museum outside Pewter City, who asks Misty if she is Ash's girlfriend. Over Misty's furious objections, the old man compares her and Ash to a {{p|Nidorina}} and {{p|Nidorino}} and even tells her that she is "well-matched" with Ash.
: When [[Old Man Shuckle]] gives Ash his medicine and the medicine explodes in Ash's stomach, Misty asks Old Man Shuckle what he gave Ash. He reveals that it was Pokémon medicine, and Misty gets really angry. She calms down once Ash wakes up and says, "You know what? My stomach-ache is all gone!"


* ''[[EP185|The Light Fantastic]]''
===[[Pokémon Live!]]===
: When Misty introduces Ash to [[Nurse Joy]], Joy quickly exclaims, "What a little cutie!" referring to {{AP|Pikachu}} on Ash's head. But Misty and Brock mistakenly think she's referring to Ash. Brock is left completely shocked, but Misty not only gets shocked, but quickly develops the same jealous expression she displayed when Melody flirted with Ash.
In this show, it is explicitly stated that Misty has feelings for Ash and wants to tell him, but that she is too scared.


* ''[[EP198|The Heartbreak of Brock]]''
===[[Spurt!]]===
: After [[Temacu]] expresses her thoughts about marriage to Brock, Misty says to Ash, "You and I will be married someday too." And Ash nods his head without realizing what she had just said, and then shouts "WHOOA?" She could have easily meant that they would be married someday to different people, not necessarily to each other, but when Ash yelled out in shock Misty looked over at him with a shocked face that looked like she didn't mean to say that out loud. However, this is a dub edit. In the original, Misty said, "Looks like she fell for {{tt|Takeshi|Brock}} in first sight."
In the final opening theme song for the Japanese Advanced Generation series, Misty was shown in a "Queen of Hearts" card together with [[Delia Ketchum]]. Under cartomancy, the Queen of Hearts card was meant to universally represent the mother and future wife of an individual.<ref>http://latin.cards/cartomancy/queen-hearts.html</ref>


: While giving a pep talk to Brock about pursuing a possible relationship with Temacu, Misty says, "Take it from me, it's a lot easier to like someone who likes you than to like someone who doesn't." Brock then asks her, "How do you know?", after which Misty gasps, blushes, then coyly replies, "Well that's...what I've heard..."  She is not referring to Brock (much to the dismay of {{s|Gym|GymShippers}}), since she is openly encouraging Brock to pursue Temacu.
==References==
 
<references/>
* ''[[EP267|Love, Pokémon Style]]''
: When [[Macy]] first invites Ash out to lunch, Misty quickly cuts in between the two and comments that Ash is "booked". Later in the same scene, Macy questions Misty's right to interrupt in Ash's personal affairs when she's not his girlfriend. Misty looks quite unimpressed as Macy continues to flirt with Ash.
 
* ''[[EP273|Gotta Catch Ya Later]]'' 
: The departure of Misty from the group is a very emotional affair. After all is said and done, Misty says to herself, "Well, Ash Ketchum, finally, I know how you feel about me."
:In this episode, Misty gives Ash her handkerchief. In Japanese, as well as many other eastern Asian cultures, giving a handkerchief is done to, "wipe away tears" when someone leaves your life (eg. a death, a breakup, or saying goodbye to a good friend).  <!-- I've left the original text in, just in case I'm wrong, as I haven't watched the Japanese episode, but this is what giving a handkerchief typically means. "Apparently, in Japan that means that a girl cares for a boy." <!-- Needs a reference. -->
:Misty got her own good-bye song (which completely left Brock out). Ash was pretty clueless about how upset Misty was when they found out she had to leave, but when they actually parted, he did say that she’s his best friend, and cried when they left.
 
* ''[[SS011|A Date With Delcatty]]''
: In the original version, Misty initially rejects [[Georgio]] because there is "someone else." Taking into account of Misty's evident feelings in the series prior to this episode, it can be inferred that Misty is making a reference to Ash.
 
* ''[[AG133|The Right Place and the Right Mime]]''
: After Ash is saved from the {{p|Tauros}} by Bayleef, Misty and Tracey come to check on them. Ash comments that his Pokémon are stronger than ever, and Misty tells him that Pokémon start acting like their Trainers, and teases him about knowing a 'certain Trainer' that has been running wild, while winking towards Ash.
: When Max informs everybody that the nearest [[Battle Frontier]] facility is near Cerulean City, both Misty and Ash are delighted that they can travel together for a while, and she gives him a wink.
 
* ''[[Pokémon Live]]''
: In this show, Misty yearns to tell her feelings for Ash, but is too afraid to tell him.
 
====Various songs====
* ''[[Misty's Song]]'' is a song from the ''[[Pokémon 2.B.A. Master]]'' soundtrack in which Misty sings that she loves Ash. She also says that she wants to confess her love to Ash. This is one of the strongest pieces of evidence for PokéShipping. Part of the song was played in the episode ''[[EP132|For Crying Out Loud]]'', although the canonization of the song is disputed.
**Ash does not have a song for Misty.
* On the ''[[Pokémon Christmas Bash]]'' CD there are two songs that show strong evidence of her feelings towards Ash.
**The first song on the CD entitled ''{{OBP|Pokémon Christmas Bash|song}}'' has the three main characters along with Team Rocket singing about what they want for Christmas. In Misty's stanza she sings "Hey Santa if you're really listenin' / My wishlist has only one thing / Just gimme one dance with Ash / At the Pokémon Christmas bash!".
**Another song on the CD called ''[[Under the Mistletoe]]'' has Misty singing about how she wants Ash to know her feeling for him and about how she wants to meet Ash under the mistletoe. On the other hand, Ash is singing about how he hopes to not to be caught under the mistletoe, although at first he doesn't move away- many fans claim this is Shipping from Ash's side. Near the song's end, after leaving Ash feeling paranoid about the mistletoe, Misty has got Ash under the mistletoe. Ash realizes this, freaks out, and runs off to eat more cookies while leaving Misty wondering what his problem is.
* ''[[Toi et Moi]]'', the Japanese ending song of ''[[M02|The Power of One]]'', references PokéShipping several times, all from Misty's perspective; in particular, the reference to saving the one she loves from drowning (as in the movie.)
* ''[[He Drives Me Crazy]]'' is a song from ''[[Totally Pokémon]]'' and ''[[Pokémon 3: The Ultimate Soundtrack]]'' that is sung from Misty's perspective, although it was not sung by [[Rachael Lillis]]. This song highlights the feelings that Misty has but does not understand. Many PokéShippers regard this song as having undeniable proof of Misty's feelings for Ash.
* ''[[It Takes Two]]'' is a song used to advertise {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}}. It states evidence from both sides on how they work together.
 
===Ash's hints===
Many AdvanceShippers and PearlShippers claim that Ash has not shown any proof of liking Misty beyond the already established platonic feelings. Naturally, PokéShippers believe Ash is capable of ''liking'' Misty. Furthermore, the theory also extends to the possible belief that Ash does love Misty, but is not mature enough to realize it. This idea is supported by the fact that Ash acts jealous when another guy shows interest in Misty or vice-versa, and the flirtatious tone of some of their teasing. This theory explains their bickering (to cover up how they really feel about each other), and it can be argued that Ash displays real feelings for Misty when she is vulnerable or scared.
 
* ''[[EP012|Here Comes The Squirtle Squad]]''
: When Ash sees that Pikachu, Misty, and Brock aren't in the cave, he yells Pikachu's name; then has a vision of Misty falling, and calls out her name too. Brock is never mentioned.
 
* ''[[EP017|Island of the Giant Pokémon]]''
: When Ash regains consciousness, he sees Misty still unconscious and rushes over to her, shakes her and yells at her to get up. Then he notices Brock and tells him to get up, but he remains by Misty's side.
 
* ''[[EP018|Beauty and the Beach]]''
: When Misty shows up, holding a beach ball along with her bathing suit on, Ash stares at her with what some describe as a love-struck expression, and comments on how Misty looks like a girl for once. After Ash said that, she blushed an intense red. Later, when [[Moe]] yells at the group, Ash quickly hides behind Misty and holds her by the shoulders, showing he looks to her when he is scared or needs support.
 
[[File:Ash Misty Hold Hands.png|250px|thumb|Ash and Misty holding hands in ''[[EP020|Ghost of Maiden's Peak]]'']]
* ''[[EP020|Ghost of Maiden's Peak]]''
: Ash does a double take when Misty appears with her hair down and dressed in a formal kimono. Upon seeing her, the camera switches to his perspective, the bubbly background usually associated with passionate moments is used, romantic harp strings are played, and Misty's surprised facial expression clearly shows she is being looked at with interest. Also, the entire theme of the episode was romance-oriented, so it's only logical to assume this scene between Ash and Misty is as well. Interestingly enough, Misty was asking Ash to dance. When Ash accepts, Misty takes his hand and they are seen dancing together as the episode ends.
 
*''[[EP028|Pokémon Fashion Flash]]''
: When Misty goes missing, Ash expresses extreme concern.
 
* ''[[EP052|Princess vs. Princess]]''
: Ash, thinking Misty is entering the Princess Festival Contest to take a picture with the movie star host, gets jealous, groaning with his arms crossed, "You must really want that picture with [[Fiorello Cappucino|Fiorello]]...". Surprisingly, Misty reassures him she's only doing it for the doll set. Also, when Misty was dressed in a kimono during the contest, Ash stared at her and said, "Ohhh...", but so did Brock.
 
* ''[[EP023|The Tower of Terror]]''
: When Ash sees Misty and Brock standing outside waiting for him, he decides to tease Misty, ignoring Brock. Once awake from being unconscious, Ash immediately greets Misty, not even mentioning Brock or Pikachu.
 
* ''[[EP090|In The Pink]]''
: When Ash wakes up after being thrown onto Pinkan Island, he immediately asks for Misty and Pikachu, leaving Tracey out completely.
 
* ''[[EP093|Navel Maneuvers]]''
: Climbing Navel Island's central mountain, Misty tells Danny the gym leader to be extra careful. Seeing how much concern Misty is giving to Danny, Ash with the same jealous expression yells, "What's she so worried about him for?!". He's distracted so much by Misty's little crush on Danny that he loses his concentration and falls down the mountain a bit. Much like his behavior in "Princess vs. Princess", another male getting Misty's attention seems to bother him. When Danny states, "What do they say, you always hurt the one you love?" Misty and Ash become extremely embarrassed. As Danny walks off, Misty runs up to him and says, "Oh, you've got it all wrong. I'd never get involved with a little kid like him. I prefer the more mature, intellectual type." Ash seems very disappointed after hearing that.
 
*''[[EP101|Get Along Little Pokémon]]''
: As the rain storm approaches and as Misty is unable to walk, Ash grabs Misty by the hand, arm and the rest of her body and leads her towards the cave. He then gently lowers her down, but keeps his arms wrapped around her. Afterwords, he stares at her with care in his eyes.
 
*''[[EP102|The Mystery Menace]]''
: When the creature pulls Misty into the sewer, Ash screams Misty's name, not even mentioning Togepi. After all the bubbles from where Misty was pulled in disappear, Ash screams again. After Tracey announces they should save her and Togepi, Ash's face gets angry, and says he will.
 
*''[[EP103|Misty Meets Her Match]]''
: [[Rudy]] moves in to court Misty after she helps rescue his younger sister, [[Mahri]]. Ash is clearly put out by Rudy's behavior, and jealous when Misty is flattered by the attention. When Rudy compliments Misty about her beautiful eyes during his attack test, Ash gets distracted and accidentally calls Charizard. Rudy invites Misty to dinner, and Ash is shocked when she accepts and appears unhappy when she leaves.  Later on, during the battle against Ash, Rudy looks at Misty and says "I dedicate this match the girl who saved my sister and stole my heart." Ash doesn't seem very happy and sarcastically replies, "That's real nice, but the victory is gonna be mine!" He gets a little antagonized with Misty when she tells him to beat Rudy, telling her he's not stupid, as if her recent behavior had upset and unsettled him.
 
: After Rudy presents Ash with his badge, he gives Misty some flowers, accepting her decision to stay with Ash. More importantly, he says, "I hope you know you're a very lucky guy, Ash." Ash cluelessly replies, "Lucky? What do you mean?" Rudy laughs and says, "You'll see some day." Ash just frowns in confusion. This incident supports the theory that Ash loves Misty, but he doesn't quite realize it yet. This is one of the stronger hints given that Misty and Ash may someday end up together.
 
*''[[EP110|The Stun Spore Detour]]''
: When Ash was really feverish, he asks in a weak voice for Misty and not for Pikachu or Tracey (or even [[Delia Ketchum|his mom]]).
 
*''[[EP121|Illusion Confusion]]''
: Ash expresses his horror when Misty is scared by illusions of Bug Pokémon, and gets angry with {{p|Hoothoot}} for running away, because it is the only one who can 'save Misty.'
 
*''[[EP132|For Crying Out Loud]]''
:When Misty, Pikachu, and [[Wilhelmina]]'s {{p|Marill}} are lost on an island and the others go to find them, Ash mutters, "Don't worry, we'll find Misty," not even mentioning Marill or his beloved Pikachu.
 
*''[[EP137|Foul Weather Friends]]''
: When Misty is trying to save {{p|Oddish}} from flying into the tornado, Ash screams her name and pulls her down by the waist, similar to how Brock did for {{jo|Mariah}} when she tried to save the {{p|Hoppip}}, whom he was currently crushing on.
 
* ''[[EP216|Dueling Heroes]]''[[File:Misty special lure DP034.png|thumb|right|Ash displaying [[Misty's special lure]]]]
: Prior to Misty's battle, Ash wakes up to find Misty staring out the window. They have a little talk and after that, Ash continues to gaze at Misty silently.
: Brock comments about how Misty's battling style reminds him so much of Ash. Furthermore, Ash and Misty share similar victory poses when they win their round.
 
* ''[[AG044|The Princess and the Togepi]]''
: Upon showing Ash the invitation to the Togepi Festival, Ash gets excited and walks off happily. But Misty quickly pulls him back by the hood. Later on, when Misty gets abducted by Team Rocket, Ash is the first one to run after her.
 
*''[[AG133|The Right Place and the Right Mime]]''
: When Max informs everyone that the nearest [[Battle Frontier]] facility is near Cerulean City, Ash is pleased that Misty is able to travel with him and the group for a while.
 
*''[[AG134|A Real Cleffa-hanger]]''
: May tries to befriend a Cleffa, but the Pokémon backs away from her in fright. Misty figures that it will talk to {{p|Azurill}}, and then Azurill jumps off her arms and starts playing with the Cleffa. Ash tells Misty how great her idea was.
 
: When the Ash and the gang looks for Misty, Max, and Pikachu, Ash is the one carrying Misty's Spheal bag.
 
*''[[AG187|The Unbeatable Lightness of Seeing]]''
:Ash is feeling down about losing but regains his confidence back when he receives gifts from his mother and his friends. He especially shows off Misty's special lure to Pikachu with a big smile on his face.
 
* ''[[DP034|Buizel Your Way Out of This]]''
: When Ash and the others are fishing, Ash uses the special lure Misty made for him. Dawn asks if she could use it, but Ash refuses, causing them both to argue. While they are distracted, a {{AP|Buizel}} comes and takes their lures, causing Ash to panic. He is determined to get the lure back, and once it is returned, he seems very happy and relieved.
 
==Movie evidence==
*''[[M01|Mewtwo Strikes Back]]''
: When Mewtwo throws Ash back with its psychic powers, Misty quickly runs up to him and asks if he's okay (Brock only stays put). At the ending, there's a scene of Ash, Misty, and Brock sleeping in their sleeping bags. Ash and Misty are placed conveniently near each other, while Brock's position is relatively away from them. When Ash is petrified by the fighting between Mew and Mewtwo, Misty murmurs "Please no" while Pikachu attempts to revive him.
 
[[Image:PokeShipping 3.png|thumb|325px|right|Misty is annoyed as Melody flirts with Ash]]
* ''[[M02|The Power of One]]''
: In the Japanese trailer of the film, there was a scene that was animated specifically for that trailer. When Ash jumps down the cliff to save his Pikachu, Misty tries to follow him but Tracey holds her back. Misty looks completely distressed, as can be seen by her tears.
: P2K, otherwise known as 'The Power of One', or 'Revelation Lugia' is the conclusion to everything related to Misty's love for Ash in the Orange Season. In this movie, Misty gets competition in the form of Melody, the Festival Maiden of the Legend Ceremony. {{mov|Melody}}, upon greeting our heroes, immediately comes up to Ash and plants a kiss on his cheek, provoking a glare of jealousy from Misty. Also, after Melody's performance at the festival party, she quickly kneels in front of Ash and grabs hold of his arm, provoking Misty to gasp and growl again in subdued jealousy.
:Also, upon being called Ash's girlfriend, Misty blushes uncontrollably.
:Near the end, Misty openly admits to Melody that Ash is "her burden" and goes off to rescue him in Melody's place, stating that he'll never be alone as he'll always have her, which Melody respects (due to the debating between her and Misty of Misty liking Ash throughout the movie).
 
* ''[[M04|Celebi: Voice of the Forest|Pokémon 4Ever]]''
: When our heroes are running from a Pokémon, Misty trips along the way. Ash (and Brock) run back to help her. They get to safety, at least for a little while, and all of a sudden some Pokémon appear to attack them. Ash runs in front of her and spreads his arms out to protect Misty.
:When Ash and Sammy are saved by Celebi and come down, Misty shouts, "Ash is okay!", not even mentioning Sam, Celebi, or Pikachu.
 
* ''[[M05|Pokémon Heroes]]''
: When {{mov|Bianca}}/{{p|Latias}} kissed Ash on the dock, Misty was so shocked that not only did she develop the same jealous expression seen in the series, but she also dropped her {{TP|Misty|Togepi}}.
 
* ''[[M06|Jirachi: Wish Maker]]''
:On the last day of the comet's showing, Max is disappointed that he will have to part with Jirachi. Ash sits down with him by the river and reassures him that Jirachi will always will be in his heart. Ash tells him, "A good friend left me, and I miss her everyday. But I know we'll be friends forever." Many people would think this would be Misty. However this is in the dub only and can be argued. In the original, he only implies that he had many friends he needed to say goodbye to, not particularly a ''her''. 
:In the Spanish language version, {{Ash}} says, "Sabes, yo extraño mucho a mi mejor amiga." It means ''I really miss my best friend'' (''amiga'' meaning a female friend, as opposed to ''amigo'', a male friend) He could very well be referring to Misty.
 
==Manga evidence==
===[[Electric Tale of Pikachu]]===
In the Electric Tale of Pikachu {{pkmn|manga}}, Ash has a huge crush on {{Gary}}'s older sister, [[Daisy Oak|May]]. However, there are some cases where Ash shows attraction towards Misty. He finds her eye-catching, especially when he first sees her in her Gym uniform, which happens to be a very attractive swimsuit (in the original). Another event is during a scene in a hot spring in the second volume (though the scene was cut from the American release of the manga).
 
Just like in the anime, [[Rudy]] also proposed to Misty, and Ash shows great deal of bitterness toward it.
 
==Other hints==
[[Image:PokeShipping 4.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A scan featuring Ash and Misty with Pokémon]]
For those already convinced about PokéShipping, there do exist events which suggest inconclusively, something along the lines of romance. But the difference between hints and proofs are that proofs are essentially ironclad and undebatable in contemporary debate, whereas hints are quite debatable, and are open to interpretation. The following is a listing of some that are considered to be debatable hints, all of which vary in strength and worth.
 
* ''[[EP005|Showdown at Pewter City]]''
: Misty is surprisingly eager to start a Pokémon-sharing relationship with Ash in this episode and gets very upset when Ash refuses. Later, while Ash is charging up Pikachu's electric sacs, Misty again offers help to Ash and gets snubbed. She then grumbles and says, "What do I care..." and runs off. Misty somewhat admits by her behavior and dialogue that she's really interested in getting to know him better.
 
* ''[[EP006|Clefairy and the Moon Stone]]''
: Misty, at the beginning of this episode, continually keeps mentioning how "romantic" the surroundings are. She continues to do this not only in this episode, but subsequent episodes as well.
 
* ''[[EP007|The Waterflowers of Cerulean City]]''
: At the outskirts of [[Cerulean City]], Misty attempts to dissuade Ash from going into the city by tempting him to go to [[Vermilion City]]. She does so by mentioning the "neat Pokémon, the yachts pulling into the harbor, and a spot way up on a hill where you can sit and watch a romantic sunset". The mentioning of a romantic scene subtly suggests what she might have intended for all along, especially with how many times she's talked about romantic things in previous episodes.
 
* ''[[EP014|Electric Shock Showdown!]]''
: After Nurse Joy breaks up an argument between the two of them, she comments that they say when two people fight, they really care about each other; although Ash and Misty instantly reject the idea, they are both blushing slightly when they turn away from the other.
 
[[Image:PokeShipping 5.png‎|thumb|250px|right|Ash's ghost lifting Misty up in the air in ''[[EP023|The  Tower of Terror]]'']]
* ''[[EP023|The Tower of Terror]]''
: When Ash enters the tower alone to try and catch a Ghost Pokémon, and is subsequently briefly separated from his body, Misty is the first one of her and Brock to express concern about how long Ash and Pikachu are taking inside. When Ash hovers beside her in his ghost form and lifts her in the air, Misty is the only one who can hear him despite Brock standing only a foot or so away from her, potentially hinting at a closer bond between the two. Also, before Ash and Pikachu return to their bodies, Misty is visibly near to tears as she pleads for Ash to wake up, and blushes immensely when he wakes up and greets her.
 
* ''[[EP026|Pokémon Scent-sation!]]''
: Misty, unaware that Ash is disguised as a girl among the crowd and using the same girlish demeanor she used in "Ash Catches A Pokémon," dreamily admits to the group, "I wish Ash would've heard that story..." She openly is expressing a desire for Ash's presence.
 
: Also, during Ash's gym battle with [[Erika]], the girls in the crowd start acknowledging Ash's skill and how much more impressive he is than he looks, provoking Misty to smile with reassurance.
 
* ''[[EP035|The Legend of Dratini]]''
: At the beginning of the episode, Ash is marching and singing. Misty is right behind him and longingly stares at him until they reach the [[Kanto Safari Zone|Safari Zone]] warden's house. After Ash sings out his last lines, Misty imitates his enthusiasm and sings her own lines as well. Of course, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."
 
: Also, later in the episode, when Ash is about to dive in the water to grab the bomb that Team Rocket threw in there, Misty stops him, and says that it is too dangerous. Although this hint is under debate simply because it could be merely her worrying for Ash, (as a friend would do), she also sends down her Staryu to save Ash after he is down there for too long. And afterward, when he comes back up, Misty smiles and is thrilled that he is alive, with a blush apparent.
 
* ''[[EP043|March of the Exeggutor Squad]]''
: Misty goes into perhaps the most extreme fits of blushing in the history of the series, all provoked by a simple compliment from Ash about her skimpy stage outfit. No one blushes like that out of mere embarrassment. She clearly holds Ash's opinion of her in exclusive priority.
 
* ''[[EP045|The Song of Jigglypuff]]''
: As Jigglypuff begins singing in the woods, Ash and Brock are standing next to each other while Pikachu and Misty are sitting a couple feet away. After Jigglypuff is done singing, Brock and Pikachu are sprawled out asleep by themselves while Misty and Ash are slumped against each other. It might not have meant anything if the two were already standing by each other, in which case it would have just been convenient, but they weren't. Either they moved into this position because they are very comfortable with each other, or the director(s) might have just thrown this in to plant an idea. It is also interesting to note that when they wake up, Misty comments, "What a nice nap."
 
* ''[[EP061|The Misty Mermaid]]''
: Before the performance, Ash says, "This is gonna be great! I can't wait to see Misty!" While watching the show, Ash says to Brock, "Misty's doing really good!"
 
: At the end of this episode, Ash tells Misty how amazing she was at her performance of the underwater play. Misty disproportionately calls Ash's comments "sweet talk" and reminds him of the bike he owes her, something she supposedly forgot about back on [[Cinnabar Island]].
 
* ''[[EP068|Make Room for Gloom]]''
: Upon arriving at the Xanadu Nursery, Brock spies on a pretty girl behind the window, after which Ash comes to look and says he doesn't see a pretty girl. Misty then says, "Just turn around" and giggles, clearly addressing Ash. Ash then jokes about her hallucinating, then starts chuckling.
 
: Ash, finally spotting a {{p|Gloom}} behind the window, asks Brock if "he's getting 'misty' over a gloom," This causes Misty to pull Ash's mouth wide with her fingers and ask him what is he saying about her, mistaking Ash's 'misty' comment with herself. Both seem to be blushing in the midst of their playfulness.
 
* ''[[EP077|Fourth Round Rumble]]''
: While watching Ash's match on the grass field in the spectator stands with Brock, Misty becomes particularly vocal whenever Brock shows signs of attraction for Ash's current opponent [[Jeanette Fisher]], yelling at Brock to remember whose side he is meant to be on. She also feels sorry for Ash when his mother and Professor Oak show up to tell him that all of Pallet Town is now rooting for him, recognizing the increased pressure this will put Ash under.
 
* ''[[EP155|Forest Grumps]]''
:At the beginning of the episode, Ash and Misty are surprisingly close to one another while tending to their Pokémon. Brock on the other hand is away from them asleep behind a tree.
:Upon reunion, Ash and Misty exclaim each other's names in joy, with Brock totally ignored by Misty, while the camera focuses on their faces. What's interesting to note is how the scripting and animation seem to focus just on their reunion alone.
 
* ''[[AG133|The Right Place and the Right Mime]]''
: When Ash finally arrives home after his travels in Hoenn, he finds Misty at his house. She makes a point of being there, specifically so that she could see Ash as soon as he arrived back from Hoenn even though she apparently has no idea how soon exactly he would be returning. For all she knew, she could have been expecting a wait spanning multiple weeks.
: Azurill is a good excuse to go down there but it does not explain her behavior:
:*Why did she stay at Ash's mother's house, and not at Oak's laboratory?
:*Why was she waiting at Ash's mother's house for days and days for Ash's arrival, especially given that they didn't know exactly how long Ash would take to return?
:*Why was she so concerned about getting to see Ash as soon as he arrived?
:*How can her somewhat wistfully delivered line of how Ash is the same as always be explained?
:*Why couldn't she have simply delayed her trip down there until Ash had already arrived?
 
* ''[[The Mastermind of Mirage Pokémon]]''
: Ash considers Misty as a rival at times and, when given the chance, he likes showing off to impress her. In this special episode, Ash receives an invitation from [[Dr. Yung]]. Upon reaching the mansion of Dr. Yung, he is surprised to see Misty and Professor Oak there. As Misty proceeds on asking him why he is there, Ash waves the invitation in front of him in an attempt to show off, saying that he got invited because of his great skills as a trainer. Misty stays composed and shows her own invitation, telling him that she also got invited, which surprises Ash.
 
: When Dr. Yung asks Ash and Misty to battle, Ash quickly expresses his excitement only to be foiled by Misty. The Gym Leader reminds Ash of his manners and says "Ladies first!" while winking an eye at him.
 
: In order to save Professor Oak, Ash decides to sneak into the castle through underwater. He could have chosen May or Max to come with him, but he chose Misty.
 
[[File:Spurt Card Ash loves Misty.png‎|thumb|250px|Misty and Delia, featured on the Queen of Hearts Card in the tenth Japanese OP, ''[[Spurt!]]'']]
* ''[[Aim to Be a Pokémon Master]]
: In the first ever opening theme song of the Pokémon anime, there is a scene where the Ash and {{ashfr|his friends}} are in a forest by a campfire. It's an interesting note to see Ash and Misty sitting very close to each other, while Brock is quite far from them, sitting on the other side.
 
* ''[[Spurt!]]''
: In the fifth and final opening theme song for the Japanese Advanced Generation Pokémon anime series, Misty was shown in a "Queen of Hearts" card together with [[Delia Ketchum]]. One could say the two girls on the card likely represent the more important females in Ash's life.
 
* ''[[Under the Mistletoe]]''
: This song includes hints from both. Ash sings about that he is happy tonight and Misty sings about she knows she will meet her true love under the mistletoe. Later during this song, Misty comments that she and Ash stand under the mistletoe. Also, both sing they want to tell something to [[Santa Claus|St. Nicholas]]. However, when they are both under the mistletoe Ash runs off.
 
*Misty constantly yelled at and insulted Ash through out the show, and is an example of the hiding of feelings for children of that age, however depending on how much older they have gotten since they had met, this may or may not be a very big clue.
 
*Every time that Ash has a near-death-experience or Misty thinks that Ash is dead, she expresses extreme anguish, almost to the extent of sobbing.
 
*When Jigglypuff sings its song, Misty and Ash are often seen leaning against each other in their sleep.
 
*If Ash is in danger, Misty will be very worried for Ash, more than other characters. Ash will also be very concerned for Misty if she's in any kind of danger.
 
* When Misty was part of the group, Ash was well aware of signs of romance between humans and Pokémon, even knowing if a girl was flirting with him (such as when he nervously ran away from Macy in ''[[EP267|Love, Pokémon Style]]''). After she left the group, Ash has shown signs of being oblivious to anything romantic taking place around him, as well as not knowing when a girl was interested in him.
 
==Alternate names==
PokéShipping, as with many of the more popular Ships, is known by a variety of different names. Following the emergence of PokéShipping from amongst these as the de-facto standard, the other names have become associated with certain groups within the PokéShipping fandom, or certain methods of Shipping. A prominent few are detailed below.
 
* '''GakiShipping''' - An early term coined around the same time as TwerpShipping, the name was originally meant to be descriptive of both Ash & Misty being ''gakis'' (Gaki being a somewhat rude way to refer to a child in Japanese), but has since evolved to describe the actual shipper, and is now used only in an insulting manner towards shippers (not necessarily just PokéShippers) who use flimsy evidence to support their position, or otherwise act childish, especially when referring to their supported 'ships.
 
* '''SatoKasu''' - The original (Japanese) term for the ship, using the standard Japanese naming method of combining the first 2 characters from each characters name, starting with the dominant character.
 
* '''SakaShipping''' - Another early name for the pairing, from '''Sa'''toshi and '''Ka'''sumi.
 
* '''BikeShipping''' - this name refers to Ash and Pikachu breaking Misty's bike, and is among the least used of all names for this pairing.
 
* '''SushiShipping''' - from Ka'''su'''mi and Sato'''shi'''. Combining portions of the characters' names to form words was common early on, but now is hardly ever used.
 
* '''TwerpShipping''' - The original (English) name for the ship, the term is currently used primarily only amongst users on TRHQ, and by those who primarily associate themselves with {{s|Rocket}}.
 
* '''AAML''' - Standing for Ash And Misty Love. Also '''AAMRN''', Ash And Misty Romance Novel.
 
==Trivia==
* They have battled against each other twice for the ownership of a Pokémon: {{p|Togepi}} and {{p|Totodile}}.
* The two have shared similar victory poses in the series. Imitation is known to be the ultimate form of flattery.
* [[Ash's Pikachu]] took a liking to Misty very early in the show. {{an|Professor Oak}} and other characters have stated that Pokémon reflect the feelings of their Trainers.
<!--
==Notable PokéShippers==
*{{an|Daisy}}
*[[Tracey Sketchit]]
*{{mov|Melody}}
*[[Danny]]
*[[Nurse Joy]]
 
PLEASE NOTE: http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Bulbapedia:Project_Shipping/Article_Structure#.22Notable_Shippers.22-->


==External links==
==External links==
* [http://bmgf.bulbagarden.net/showthread.php?t=34915 PokéShipping Discussion Thread] on BMGf
* [http://forums.bulbagarden.net/index.php?forums/shippers-paradise.300/ Shippers' Paradise] on Bulbagarden Forums
 


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[[Category:Ships with Misty|{{PAGENAME}}]]


[[ja:サトカス]]
[[ja:サトカス]]

Latest revision as of 19:53, 30 April 2024

PokéShipping (Japanese: サトカス SatoKasu) is the ship between Ash Ketchum and Misty and is historically one of the most prolific pairings within the Pokémon franchise, alongside AmourShipping and RocketShipping, to the point that it is even named after the franchise. It is also one of the few pairings that has been officially recognized by The Pokémon Company and can be followed across many of the anime adaptations, including the manga and novelizations.

Ash and Misty first encountered each other in Pokémon, I Choose You!. Misty was fishing in a river, and she hooked Ash and his injured Pikachu who had been chased by a flock of Spearow. After pointing Ash in the direction of the nearest Pokémon Center, he borrowed her bicycle. They reunited in Pokémon Emergency when Misty arrived at the Pokémon Center with her broken bicycle, demanding that Ash pay her back, saying she'd continue to follow him until he does. As the series progressed, the pair developed a strong bond and had many adventures together, with Misty being the primary female protagonist through the Kanto region, the Orange Archipelago and the Johto region with Ash. Misty continues to make reappearances in subsequent series as well since her departure.

History

Ash and Misty holding hands in The Ghost of Maiden's Peak

Indigo League

Despite Misty's initial insistence that she is only following Ash until he pays for her bike, in Ash Catches a Pokémon, she admires his deep love and care for Pokémon. Early on in their journey, she primarily serves as a tutor to Ash, explaining how the Badge system works, even assisting him in battles and training. From the beginning, she is happy to offer her own Pokémon to support Ash in his battles, such as seen in Showdown in Pewter City.

Despite Misty's best efforts to convince Ash to pass by Cerulean City, when they do make it, Misty's sister, Daisy, questions if the pair of them have become a couple, which embarrasses Misty. And, when the group reaches Pokémon Tech, Misty becomes frustrated with Ash and Brock when the pair become infatuated with Giselle.

At the end of The Ghost of Maiden's Peak, during the festival, Ash begins to see Misty in a different light, and common romantic tropes occur, such as a bubbly background and romantic harp strings. When Misty invites Ash to dance, he happily accepts by taking her hand. The pair are shown holding hands again during The Tower of Terror while traversing the mist on their way to Lavender Town. When Ash decides to investigate the tower alone, he is knocked out by a falling chandelier. Outside, Misty voices her concerns to Brock about letting Ash and Pikachu enter the tower alone. When the pair go inside and find Ash unconscious, Misty is visibly upset, holding Ash in her arms before he regains consciousness. Misty and Ash continue to remain very protective of each other, always showing concern at any risk of injury and supporting each other through their hardships and battles throughout the series.

During a scene from The Bridge Bike Gang, Brock unknowingly pins Ash to his seat at the Pokémon Center and Misty has a frightened look on her face. Later, in the same scene, Misty is seen trying to free Ash, with Pikachu's help.

By the time Ash, Misty and Brock reach Cinnabar Island, she'd forgotten that she started to follow Ash because of her bike, indication that the two had developed a strong friendship. Misty continues supporting Ash as he battles through the Indigo Plateau Conference, and attempts to cheer him up when he loses to Ritchie, before losing her temper with him.

Misty is annoyed when Melody flirts with Ash

Orange League

Ash, Misty, and Brock travel onwards to the Orange Archipelago, with Brock leaving them early on to help at Professor Ivy's laboratory. During Poké Ball Peril, Team Rocket comment that they've caught "a pair of very romantic creatures" and how Misty and Ash are "lovebirds," which they both deny. A sub-theme during this arc is the closeness of their relationship, culminating in Misty admitting to herself her feelings for Ash in the second movie. Other characters who also comment on their closeness include Danny, the Navel Island Gym Leader, Tracey and Melody.

The events of Misty Meets Her Match, are another key episode that people supporting PokéShipping point to, despite Rudy's interest in Misty and their impromptu date, she continues to cheer for Ash in their gym battle. Recognizing her feelings for Ash at the culmination of their battle, Rudy comments to himself that "She wants him."

Johto

During The Heartbreak of Brock, while giving Brock a pep talk about pursuing a relationship with Temacu, Misty responds, "Take it from me, it's a lot easier to like someone who likes you than to like someone who doesn't." Brock then asks her, "How do you know?", after which Misty gasps, blushes, then coyly replies, "Well, that's...what I've heard...".

Misty notices when others show an interest in Ash, such as in Love, Pokémon Style when Macy invites Ash out to lunch, interrupting her saying that Ash is "booked." Later in the same scene, Macy questions Misty's right to interfere in Ash's personal affairs as she's not his girlfriend. Misty looks quite unimpressed as Macy continues flirting with Ash.

When Misty, Ash and Brock split up in Gotta Catch Ya Later!, initially she is upset that Ash doesn't seem to care that the three of them will be going their own ways. However, by the episode's conclusion, as they think back on their journey together, they're all upset, but concede they will always be the best of friends. As a parting gift, Misty gives Ash a handkerchief, which is customary in Japan and other East Asian cultures, to "wipe away tears" when someone leaves your life (e.g. a death, a breakup, or saying goodbye to a good friend).

Post Original Series

After their initial adventure, the pair are always excited to see each other and continue traveling together for short lengths. This is seen during their time together at the Mirage Kingdom in Hoenn, traveling to the Battle Factory in Kanto or reuniting when they meet up during the series, Sun & Moon series. This is last seen in their final reunion in A Fated Face-Off!, where the two not only reunite but engage in large amounts of friendly banter before traveling together again one last time from this episode until The Rainbow and the Pokémon Master!, alongside Brock.

Misty has also watched Ash compete in the Ever Grande Conference from afar in Saved by the Beldum and Shocks and Bonds, and later watched Ash face Leon in Partners in Time!.

Ash also has a special lure featuring Misty's likeness that he received as a gift from her and has been seen using it on numerous occasions, carrying it with him throughout his adventures. He notably replaces it with Cilan's lure in A Fated Face Off! in front of Misty, and jokingly insists Cilan's lure is superior, provoking the latter.

Other media

Misty and Delia, featured on the Queen of Hearts Card in the tenth Japanese OP, Spurt!

The Electric Tale of Pikachu

In the manga series The Electric Tale of Pikachu, based on the anime, Ash has a canonical crush on Gary's older sister, May. However, he occasionally shows attraction towards Misty as well. When Misty learns about Daisy Oak, she teases Ash about being attracted to older women and wonders if she should be careful (she is 12 in this adaptation).

Over the course of the manga, their interest in each other is played up, including in Play Misty For Me where Ash finds Misty eye-catching, especially when he first sees her in her Gym uniform, which happens to be a swimsuit. In the same chapter, Misty's sisters tease her about being attracted to younger men.

For the adaption of the Trovita Island Gym battle against Rudy in You Bet Your Wife, when Rudy proposes to Misty, Ash calls him a "creep" and tells him that "if you want Misty, you'll have to go through me first!". Misty blushes and wonders if Ash is in love with her, and seems disappointed when Ash goes on to politely ask Rudy for a formal badge challenge.

In Epilogue: Wild Type, in a letter he writes home to his mother, Ash recounts his adventures in the Orange Islands and brief glimpses are shown. These include a panel with Ash and Misty facing each other, blushing furiously, in the scene, Ash asks, "Which jacuzzi...was this?". In the letter, Ash describes this moment as "some other stuff too..." saying "I can't tell Mom about that!".

Music

  • Misty's Song is a song from the Pokémon 2.B.A. Master soundtrack in which Misty sings about her feelings for Ash but is afraid she'll be rejected, culminating in her saying that she loves him.
  • On the Pokémon Christmas Bash CD, there are two songs that show strong evidence of her feelings towards Ash.
    • The first song on the CD entitled Pokémon Christmas Bash has the three main characters along with Team Rocket singing about what they want for Christmas. In Misty's stanza, she sings about how the only thing on her wishlist is a dance with Ash.
    • Another song on the CD called Under the Mistletoe has Misty singing about how she wants Ash to know her feelings for him and how she wants to meet Ash under the mistletoe. On the other hand, Ash is singing about how he hopes not to be caught under the mistletoe. Near the song's end, after leaving Ash feeling paranoid about the mistletoe, Misty has got Ash under the mistletoe. Ash realizes this, freaks out, and runs off to eat more cookies while leaving Misty wondering what his problem is.

Pocket Monsters: The Animation

Takeshi Shudō's novelization contains numerous scenes and internal character monologues that were not in the anime, and several of these relate to Ash and Misty's relationship. These monologues include Misty reflecting on her romantic fantasies of the ideal man and compares Ash unfavorably to that fantasy while acknowledging that Ash is the first boy she's spent a significant amount of time with.

In Chapter 2 of the second volume, Ash and Misty encounter an old man in the archaeological museum outside Pewter City, who asks Misty if she is Ash's girlfriend. Over Misty's furious objections, the old man compares her and Ash to a Nidorina and Nidorino and even tells her that she is "well-matched" with Ash.

Pokémon Live!

In this show, it is explicitly stated that Misty has feelings for Ash and wants to tell him, but that she is too scared.

Spurt!

In the final opening theme song for the Japanese Advanced Generation series, Misty was shown in a "Queen of Hearts" card together with Delia Ketchum. Under cartomancy, the Queen of Hearts card was meant to universally represent the mother and future wife of an individual.[1]

References

External links


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