Any Octopath Travlers that can assist me?! Stuck within first hour of gameplay!

I'm an hour into the game went with ophila as my first character and I stuck on the flame guardian? Does this game expect me to fight it solo? Or am I missing something why don't i have any party members? i've ran around the town countless times and i can't find any one. a guide on IGN says i should have a party of these other characters by now? But i'm solo. Somebody help thanks. I can't find any guides or instructions other than some guides saying if i have "these" party members with me. But i'm lost :(

Octopath Traveler Walkthrough & Guide - Nintendo Switch - By Uta - GameFAQs (gamespot.com)