Copyright question, intellectual property?

[Billnew]

I grew up playing D&D,
So my fantasy writing is built on the philosophy of the game.
I change most of the magic, if not only the name but some of the characteristics.

My question,
I mention the D&D god of Elves in many of my work. I don't go into much detail but I think Corellon was invented by the game makers.
If I get published at what point does it change from referencing someone else's property and stealing it.
Much like any of the other gods in the Deity book, Dieties and demigods,
I mention who the character worships and a quick in passing conversation of their religion. Nothing specific, and I do not refer to much of the lore in the book, other then the philosophy.
The real gods of old are public domain for referencing, but what about the fantasy creations of modern creators.(Game and printed material not creators of life.)

 

[Resha Caner]

If I get published at what point does it change from referencing someone else's property and stealing it.

You can't make a profit from someone else's idea. So, you can only mention copyrighted material as long as you don't get paid for it (unless you have a license allowing you to do so).