Do you not make occasional saves? You can increase the number of quicksaves the game keeps, if you wish (see the replies in
this topic).
You are clear to clear out the soldiers. There is no quest or loot of any value in this area, and you can not get them help. If you leave the area without killing the soldiers, after you meet one of the wizards who cast the mind control spell (later in the game) they will be freed and revert to normal. You miss the experience points (from not 'defending yourself') that way, though.
