* The Real World: The story begins in the real world, where the protagonist, Liz, lives in New York City. We see her everyday life, her job, and her relationships. This is where the story begins and ends, providing a sense of normalcy and grounding for Liz's journey.
* The "Elsewhere" Game: This is the main setting of the novel. It's a virtual world, a massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), where players can escape into fantastical realities and create new identities. Liz becomes deeply immersed in the game, spending hours exploring its vast world and developing her character.
The "Elsewhere" game itself has several different environments:
* The City of Lumina: This is the main hub of the game, a vibrant metropolis with a diverse population and bustling marketplaces.
* The Wilderness: This is a sprawling area outside of Lumina, filled with dangers and opportunities. Liz ventures into the wilderness to complete quests and explore its secrets.
* The Astral Plane: This is a spiritual dimension within the game, accessible only through specific rituals.
The setting of "Elsewhere" plays a crucial role in the story. The game's virtual reality acts as both an escape and a challenge for Liz. It allows her to escape the complexities of her real life while simultaneously forcing her to confront her own anxieties and insecurities.
In conclusion, "Elsewhere" is a novel set in both the real world and a virtual game world. The virtual world provides a rich and engaging setting for the story, allowing for exploration, adventure, and introspection.