The routine was pretty much the same for the following week, with Ash having pokemon battles against increasingly difficult opponents and all of Ash's friends desperately trying to get help. Ash's schedule had grown increasingly hectic and soon the only relief that he felt came from the forest pokemon during mealtimes but it soon became apparent that these few little periods of rest were not enough when Ash collapsed during a battle one day. As Ash lay in the infirmary (yes even evil force headquarters have sick bays) Giovanni summoned the doctor about Ash's condition. "There is simply too much stress in the boy's life." the doctor answered when asked. "All of these battles are having a negative effect on the boy's physical and psychological well being." The doctor nervously fidgeted while he waited to see what type of response Giovanni would generate from his statement.
"What do you suggest be done?" asked the Boss.
The doctor, realizing that the danger was over, visibly relaxed. "Personally, I would say to stop the battles completely for one week but if that is out of the question, then limit one battle per every two days." Seeing the impassive look on Giovanni's face, the doctor felt compelled to continue. "And for one month, I would limit one battle a day after the first week to ensure a complete recovery." The doctor sighed, clearly pleased to have said that but he still had more to say. "I would also recommend giving him just a bit more free time; the boy seems to respond well to that." At this, the doctor was finally finished.
Giovanni sighed; this would push their plans back by at least two weeks but… "Very well, we have gotten what we need from my boy for now so he shall have his break." He turned to face the doctor. "When he wakes up, tell him that he can do what he likes for the rest of the day." Giovanni turned away again and the doctor bowed and left the room clearly pleased to have been able to give the bad news without a single punishment from his usually hot tempered boss. Though he was relieved, he was still confused. Why was the boy so important to Giovanni?