No, thank you for responding! I restarted since I didn't really get anywhere the last time I played. With the knowledge I got from that first attempt (and what you mentioned in your post!) I was able to get situated pretty well. Started by purchasing the pick, and with good RNG managed to buy a sword shortly afterwards. Didn't even take the loan yet, I'm just going to ignore it until it becomes part of a route later on. Thanks again!