Shinuyama – the ants go marching two by two…

[Squirrelloid]

I would argue there's a time and a place for various commanders. But early I'd say you want the research. You'll note I agree with stealth armies in the mid-game, which is going to necessitate fortress time hiring stealthy commanders, but by then you should have multiple forts and the ability to make leadership boosting items to reduce the amount of fortress disruption. Its not that I'm opposed to hiring things other than mages, just that you need to be acutely aware of tempo, especially as regards research.

I also happen to like the Mujina as an assassin. But i'm not going to hire any year 1.