Using assassins for expansion

[Festin]

Yes, lizard shamans can have bodyguards. The rare Bakemono indies also have them.

Judging by above comments, looks like the best way to use assassins is to pair them with scouts or commanders.
Turn one - assassin moves into a province, scout attacks it and counts commanders. Turn two - assassination, scout either moves to capture the province, or waits for next turn, etc.