about battles

[Fhoenix]

Ok, I just got to the first battle, and I'd like to ask, is there a downside to sitting in the capital, collecting ether and upgrading your initial units to as far as your trainers allow you? I mean obviously I won't get a bonus to mind for completing a mission fast, but other than that? Again as far as I can see you can get a lot of mind by simply guarding and healing a lot. So, is there any point to finishing missions fast at all?

Some general tips on battles in this game would be nice too.

[lightl]

well, you do get more mana for capturing towns etc, and some artifact make missions a bit easier among other things

[Phlebas]

Your missions are ranked based on the time it takes to clear them, and give you more bonus ether/mana. SS is the highest rank.