((Ok for the locations...its very simple ^_^; since I have time...now
If a character visits an area, I'll NPC the situation there, and any extra issues, enemies ect. ^_^; don't expect a warm welcome in every place you go.
I really advise not going to an area while you are under attack, if you go to another area while fighting someone else, you are automatically considered destroyed with your mecha.
If you are fighting against NPCs, or NPCs I control, you can try to flee. However its more lax...just remember....if there are ruins and a faction is guarding it heavily, I probably wont allow you to leave until you destroy every single last unit, including battleships nearby, cruisers which will search for you...however there are always ways to run away from these ships and units ^_^ I'll let you use your tactics to do that.
Searching, or excavating ruins requires equipment, and a ship....if you are a pilot and want to excavate ruins, you'll need to talk to another person with a ship...and then try and find a route to get there...I'll mail you if you encounter anything...
I say that ruins will be the most important thing to acquire new technology for your unit and the faction. Breaking into military bases is mostly...well don't expect to escape with tons of suits. However breaking into ruins which are in your faction's governing territory or simply visiting them, depending on your rank and reputation, may allow you to enter them and I'll explain what is found or what can be captured...^_^;
Lastly....if a unit from the ruins is destroyed...theres not really an abundance of spare parts for them, so its probably best to request from your superior or visit the excavation site again.))