With his newly acquired skill, Richard was ready to try it out. All he had to do was find a worthy opponent. He wandered deeper into the fleshy forest, filled with strange tumorous growths. Deeper into the fleshy forest, Richard's senses remained alert, his anticipation growing with each step.

The pulsating landscape seemed to throb with an unsettling energy, the very air tinged with a palpable sense of foreboding. Yet, despite the eerie atmosphere, Richard pressed on, not losing hope as he sought out a monster to test his newly acquired skill on. As he ventured deeper into the heart of the forest, the grotesque scenery grew ever more twisted and surreal. Strange growths loomed overhead, casting grotesque shadows that seemed to dance and writhe in the dim light. The air was thick with the scent of decay, the sickly-sweet aroma mingling with the acrid scent of burning flesh.

With each passing moment, Richard could feel the presence of malevolent forces closing in around him, their sinister whispers echoing through the twisted branches of the fleshy forest. Yet, despite the mounting tension, he remained resolute, his focus unwavering as he prepared to face whatever horrors lay in wait.

Suddenly, a low, guttural growl echoed through the eerie silence, sending a chill down Richard's spine. Instinctively, he summoned forth his Bloodfire Sword. Reaching into his mana pool, he conjured a blood red blade, forming into the shape of a greatsword, flames dancing eagerly along its crimson blade.

With a steady hand, he gripped the hilt tightly, his mind ablaze with anticipation as he prepared to confront the source of the ominous sound. Emerging from the shadows ahead, a monstrous figure loomed into view, its grotesque form a twisted amalgamation of flesh and bone. It looked like a mix between a bear and some grotesque monstrosity of tentacles and flesh. Its eyes gleamed with a malevolent light as it let out another growl, its twisted mouth contorted into a rage filled snarl.

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Without hesitation, Richard charged forward, his Bloodfire Sword held aloft.As he moved, he seized control over the monster with his Blood Puppet skill, destabilizing it. With a swift, fluid motion, he brought the flaming blade down upon the creature, the searing heat slicing through its flesh with ease. A howl of agony echoed through the forest as the creature staggered back, its disgusting form writhing in pain.

Seizing the opportunity, Richard pressed his attack, his movements fluid and precise as he danced around the creature's flailing limbs. With each strike of his sword, the flames licked hungrily at the creature's flesh, leaving charred wounds in their wake. He had not been an adept at the sword, naturally, but the motions came easier to him, perhaps a side effect of the skill.

As the battle raged on, Richard felt a surge of exhilaration course through him. The thrill of combat mingled with the power of his newfound skill, driving him onward with renewed determination.

With a final, decisive attack, Richard struck the killing blow, his Bloodfire Sword cleaving through the creature's twisted form with a burst of flame and blood. With a triumphant roar, he watched as the creature collapsed to the ground, its lifeless body smoldering amidst the eerie silence of the forest. Power rushed into him, propelling him up another level.Breathing heavily, Richard surveyed the aftermath of the battle, his heart still pounding with adrenaline. With his newfound skill tested and proven in combat, he knew that he was one step closer to unlocking the true potential of his abilities.

With a sense of satisfaction, Richard sheathed his Bloodfire Sword, ready to continue his journey deeper into the heart of the fleshy forest. He hungered for more levels and power, and this was the way to get them.

His sword skill seemed to be quite useful, especially in concert with his other skills. He had planned it this way, and it was gratifying to see his plans working out. With his new level, he quickly added the points to Strength, which would help him wield his sword more effectively. Power surged into his muscles, power that he had never felt before. He suddenly felt like he could lift a bus. Obviously, that was just an illusion, but perhaps he would be at that level eventually. It was something to look forward to in any case. He was growing stronger by the hour, and soon he would be a force to be reckoned with.