If you have Ovl but not Turm you could just use ovl for the tasks in the tunnles. With EEE, Ovl, and a few brews you really don't need SS and it's possible to survive without it on task. So yes, while 5 can out damage soulsplit you can always ovl/brew/eee to supplement your health. Also, if you kill them on a lower population world you can lower the number that are on you while they are still agressive. I used to kill them before I got turm in the ct so I know it's possible to do.