6 Random Beats from All Plots

The Burning ForgeOne of the smaller forges in town catches fire. The smith is livid, and takes his frustrations out on an apprentice. Nobody seems convinced that the apprentice is to blame.
Temporarily DetainedA guard catches a young thief in the marketplace. They go into an alley where the guard takes something from the thief and lets him escape. They seem familiar with each other.
The Missing GirlRumors circulate that a shopkeeper's daughter has gone missing.
Chain of CommandA guard captain and the travelling merchant have a pleasant lunch. Their talk seems to be all business, and somewhat less than legal.
The Bloody MerchantA shopkeeper is found badly beaten behind his shop. He blames himself for taking out the trash so late and will not press charges.
Thug LifeA bard is warned about paying his fair share of "insurance" by a blowhard band of thugs.