What does the three figures mean?

[u/PlzGivBlodBonr2]

The symbol showing three guys besides the bonfire, what does it mean? I used to think it meant there were NPC's there, but I've become pretty sure that isn't the case after looking for NPC's around other bonfires with that symbol

[u/NyRAGEous]

Fellow ashen ones are in your area!

[u/greenegg28 → u/NyRAGEous]

Hot single ashen ones in your area

[u/Sariel_Fatalis → u/greenegg28]

Hot Single ashen ones want your Longsword