Enemies scale based on the first time you enter an area.
If you exit, level up, and return, they will be beat-able.
The key to TLR is (at least from my time with it) is to focus on fighting enemies that are stronger than you. This builds up attributes quicker, as opposed to Battle Rank.
I'm on the 2nd disc, Battle Rank 71, and have rarely had a battle that was hard. The Gates of Hell was a piece of cake for me.
Back from the dead, I'm afraid.







