“If you need it repaired, maybe take it to the Mage’s Guild? I’ve had them repair my cello.”

Violetta suggested doubtfully. Cara looked at her. She doubted magic could help. What would they do, zap it with a lightning bolt or something? Idelt nodded.

“The Mage’s Guild has wise folk. Spells are expensive, but I could lend you some silver to try to…”

He reached for his money pouch and Cara held up a hand.

“No. Absolutely not. I can work, Idelt. Is there a place to find it here? I can do basic chores like lifting, or dishwashing, even cooking. You name it.”

Cara squared her shoulders, pushing her fear about her iPhone down. She didn’t need it to live—even if it provided all the backup for her singing. Time to be resourceful and survive on her own merits. Earning money was something she was familiar with, anyways. She had a lot of skills she’d picked up from her part-time jobs on Earth—although a lot of them weren’t applicable here. Idelt seemed dubious.

“There’s not that much work to be had here. But I suppose you could find a few jobs. What’s your highest-leveled class?”

“Er…excuse me?”

The young woman hesitated. Idelt gestured at the men and women carrying off the goods.

“Any levels in [Laborer]? [Dishwasher]? [Cook]? If you’re above Level 10, you’d be bound to find a job or two.”

“Er, I don’t have any…classes. But I’ve worked as a waitress—barmaid. I know my way around the service industry…”

Even Sasi and Culin gave Cara a doubtful look. Levels were a sign of work! If she didn’t even have a class, she couldn’t have worked hard, it stood to reason. Cara scowled.

“Just give me a chance and I’ll show you; I know my way around a job…”

Her faltering self-confidence was interrupted as Culin, unable to bear the suspense, came over.

“Excuse me, are you the songmistress? Are you going to play at the keep?”

Idelt and Violetta blinked at the boy, and then hurriedly bowed.

“Is that Lord Culin? Master Culin, it’s an honor! Yes, my daughter Violetta has come to…”

Idelt bowed and looked around for Lord Lantal or Lady Risel. He faltered when he saw no one was there to mind the children, but Sasi interrupted.

“You’re going to play the cello for Princess Seraphel?”

“Yes, milady. It is my honor. I hope to be entertaining.”

Violetta tried to curtsy as she held the cello and ended up bowing. Sasi saw that Cara wasn’t bowing.

The young woman eyed the children oddly as she glanced at Idelt and Violetta.

“So you’re going to play the cello?”

“Yes, Lord Culin.”

“Oh.”

The boy’s face fell. Violetta hesitated at the suddenly downcast expressions. Sasi nudged her brother.