Will using these skill points kill my rep?

[Chernabog]

My first and only pirate is level 29. Because I did not level from the start, I am having some trouble doing it now. The mid-level enemies are too easy but the upper level enemies hit me with a lot of damage in close combat. I am having to use tonics or switch to the doll and "Life Drain" (but I maxed this so it does massive damage and thus the rep goes to the doll).

My Cutlass is 14 and my Dagger is 13. I have many skill points available. I know that "Flourish" and "Sidewinder" are nice to max, but if I do this now, will it kill my rep against the level 30+ enemies? I have one point in each currently.

Thanks!