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Message: <blockquote data-quote="The Sigil" data-source="post: 881624" data-attributes="member: 2013">IANAL... I think that if you read something and use the general idea for "seeding" your work, you're okay.  Remember, IDEAS cannot be copyrighted (e.g., the concept of "time-stepping monks" cannot be copyrighted)... only the set of words used to express them can.If you have the book in front of you for constant reference, it's probably a derivative work.  If you use proper names et al from your source of inspiration, it's a derivative work.If you stick to general concepts and re-create specifics from scratch, you're fine.  For instance, I could create a prestige class that creates magic effects by making rhymes -- but each rhyme only works once -- without infringing on Piers Anthony's Apprentice Adept series (which I haven't read in over a decade).But if I decided to name this class "the Blue Adepts" I might get into trouble, though.Or I could stat out and build a story around a white dragon that is covered with fur instead of scales and that befriends younger children.But I could not name him "Falcor" nor put him in a "Neverending Story."Does that help?--The Sigil</blockquote>