I also start by buying a cheap slave or two and send them on hunts (while also building their courage to improve results). Depending on grade where may be jobs available for them, too (I also try to up the starter slave's grade asap to Commoner, so they can perform paying jobs as well). If you are lucky, you can buy a suitable slave for Mages' Guild 1st quest relatively cheap very soon.
Pick up Emily around that time and be nice.
Once there is enough money, buy combat gear and form a hunting party of 2-3 slaves plus you, attack bandits harassing people outside Wimborn for rep, gold and XP.