[Ruffie]

The lower level guards can be found in the "newbie" area in my experience.

You will not get credit for the hearsays you collect until you walk back to the quest area after obtaining them if you get them outside the quest area, but you will get credit once you get back in range of the quest giver. At least that is my experience.

P.S. Pay close attention to the dress of the guard in the area once you find one low enough to beat.