Well lets go to the ranking list. Slim is a Novice and Tainted Mage is Chosen.

As Tainted Mage is two ranks ahead of Slim, no rank up could be awarded even in the event of a clear victory. A clear loss, however, would result in the loss of one rank. However, if Tainted Mage can defeat Slim, we are in mind to count that as a half rank up, meaning if Mage were to defeat another member of lower rank after a clear victory he would not have to fight someone of higher rank to rank up and would instead automatically rank up.

Slim, on the other hand, need only battle to a draw to rank up. A loss will not count against him.

If you agree to these terms, you may proceed. Would you like me to set up the battle ground, or would one of you prefer to handle it?