Everyone: I’m trying to keep my expectations tempered for the upcoming episodes. This show’s got a hit-and-miss track record for handling its characters well.

Japan: Here – it’s Misty surrounded by hearts!

Everyone: …I’m still keeping my expectations tempered. They dropped the ball on Pokeshipping a long time ago.

Japan: Look – it’s Ash chasing Misty!

Everyone: …Still tempered. It’s just a nice piece of art. Though she is blushing…

Japan: Look – it’s the storyboard for the sequence that that heart shot’s from!

Everyone: …That could be Ash’s POV…no, STILL managing expectations! After the last series, there’s NO WAY they’ll do anything with Pokeshipping!

Me: Y’know, SM’s had characters tease Lana about being Ash’s boyfriend; we’re not under a moratorium…

Everyone: DON’T MAKE THIS HARDER FOR ME!!!