It is intentional, but I'll be adding more options to get out of debt (partial and full relief) and probably toning down how fast it accrues, including maybe offering different interest rates based on... collateral.
Viewing post in The Bank, Debt, and Interest Rates
Maybe also a purist outcome (non-sexual) that involves combat, too? I was like level 20+ and was easily taking down the Demon King and all other powerful enemies, but maybe include a combat-centric approach that involves taking out the corrupt loan shark business? It would be interesting if it had something along the lines of Puca not having any more work and joining the player's party, or maybe taking over the business? Just an idea I want to pitch.