Not really. Newer players are unlikely to be able to pull that off. If they can, then they can just as easily ROFL stomp a purge to get the sell sword.

The alternative doesn’t do that here, so the concern doesn’t really appear. The only difference with what I am proposing is that a player can get their first thrall by fighting a slightly weaker purge, that is it. Indeed, you don’t even necessarily need to allow the barkeep at that level if you perceive it to be so game breaking (personally I am unconvinced).

Giving players the ability to play the game their way, particularly if it isn’t going to effect the experience of others is a win-win.