This is a general map of one of the two settings I have. It shows a general layout with the universe, and the scale of the structures that form it.
Matter (in yellow) behaves consistently with conventional physics. It's what composes stars, planets, i.e. most of the commonly-visible universe.
Aether (purple) Is a mist-like form of matter that behaves like a "relativistic weight", and otherwise rarely interacts with regular matter. In high concentrations, it "bends" the fabric of space, shortening or lengthening distances, and changing the relative passage of time in areas. The presence of Aether is extremely important for most forms of FTL travel.
Dark Matter (black) is a highly unknown form of matter that barely, if ever, interacts with either regular matter or aether. It's thought to be the only possible connection between volumes, and the structures it forms defy all reason in their sheer enormity - large as the volume itself. The nature of the overarching structure (and the nature of dark matter itself) is subject of so much speculation it borders on esoterism, and it's most commonly described as "the Black Tree".
In general, stars cluster very close together within galaxies, often in multiples within one square lightyear. Interstellar civilizations are not uncommon, but the inconsistencies across spacetime through larger distances means only a few of them ever span a larger scale.
![[$] Always Someone Bigger (4/?)](https://va.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/3813/3813328_SorenBlume_2111-06_kitsu-comm-stack-4_noncustom.jpg "[$] Always Someone Bigger (4/?)")
