Character Names

Normally when I get a new story idea, I don't know the characters' names right away. I'll write down the idea with girl or guy in leui of names. Before I sit down to actually start typing the story, I'll pick a name then. If the story is historical, I'llmake sure the names are time period approiate. Other times, I'll pick a name because of its meaning. Or just because I like the sound of the name. Baby name sites are awesome.


For my fantasy YA story, I've been thinking of changing the male MC's name. The main character is Alexia. Right now, the MMC is Artex. I started this story in the 6th grade (literally, wrote parts of it during class) and The Neverending Story was my favorite story (still is up there). When I started the story, I had loaned my copy to a friend. I had wanted to name my MMC after the horse, but misspelled it. The horse's name is spelled Artax. When I realized that, I never bothered to correct the spelling.

Now, however, I don't want to name this character after the horse. So I need a new name for him. One that is unusual, unique. I had thought of Alastair. Someone on twitter suggested Arthus. I'm partial to that name. But remember, the FMC is Alexia. It's probably not the best of ideas to have both characters names start with 'A'. Can I get away with it though, since the story is told in 1st person? Or is two 'A' names too confusing?

Hmmm... maybe Ruthus? Any suggestions? Thoughts? I would really appreciate your insight!