Uncle Norman

Norman's character differed quite a bit between the anime and Pokémon Adventures.

In Pokémon Adventures, Norman was powerful and mysterious. He had an air that warned strangers to keep their distance, hid all his strongest feelings, and came across as tough, stern, and imposing.

The anime's Norman was much gentler. His voice was still commanding, but he was more approachable. He even went out of his way to surprise his wife and, in some respects, seemed more considerate.

Neither version was better than the other.

But the latter was certainly easier to approach. Perhaps that was why he had an entire city of devoted fans.

Baimu's arrival was met with an enthusiastic welcome from Norman and his wife. During a video call with them, Wally had made a point of mentioning Baimu, the first friend he had made after leaving home.

That had made Wally's mother, Mitsuko, insist on cooking for him. There was no stopping her.

At the dining table,

"Aunt Mitsuko's far too generous," he told Norman with a helpless smile.

"Hahaha! It's only right. You've come such a long way—how could we not treat you well? Wally would blame us when he found out."

Norman laughed, then added, "Besides, you need a full stomach to fight at your best, wouldn't you say?"

"That's true."

Baimu couldn't disagree.

One thing the strongest trainers in the Pokémon anime had in common was an easygoing confidence. Whether they faced a ten-year-old child or an arrogant trainer, they knew how to carry themselves.

"Fresh, fragrant bread, straight from the oven. Help yourselves."

Mitsuko set a plate of bread in front of each of them.

Fortunately, there wasn't much. Baimu had eaten breakfast not long ago, and he breathed a sigh of relief. But when he looked closer, a rich wheat aroma