While I know where you come from, because those two intellect devourers can be pretty mean on tactician, you do get a warning to be careful, when you approach them. You also do not have to fight them, you can climb up the the side of the mountain and land in front of Gale's spot. There is even a tempting treasure chest that leads you up the way. I'd also guess a new player does not start on tactician. Also a normal Tav might also decide, that they don't like Shart and not recruit her or send her to camp, leaving them also alone. - Does she even end up on that spot if you have not previously rescued her?
