One good option could be 'Nightshade'. It has a very mysterious and slightly dangerous connotation, often associated with poison in some cultures. Another is 'Mistwalker'. The idea of walking through the mist gives an air of mystery and the unknown. 'Eclipseborn' also works well as it ties into the idea of something being born during an eclipse, which is a very rare and mysterious event.
Smith. It's a very common and versatile last name that can fit various types of characters, from the ordinary working - class person to someone with a mysterious past. Another good one is Blackwood. It has an air of mystery and can be associated with an old, perhaps spooky family. And then there's Thorne. It gives the impression of a character who might be a bit prickly or tough on the outside.
One way is to consider the character's ethnicity or cultural background. For example, if the character is Italian, you might choose last names like Rossi or Bianchi. Another option is to use names that have a certain meaning related to the character's personality or role in the story. A strong and noble character could have a last name like 'Valor' or 'Noble'. You can also look at historical records or baby name books for inspiration.
Well, you could use family names from your own family tree if you want a personal touch. Or you could create completely fictional last names by combining syllables that sound good together. For instance, something like 'Vorstin' or 'Lumaria'. You can also consider the meaning behind the name. If your character is a healer, a last name like 'Wells' which can be associated with water (a symbol of life and healing) could work.
Blackwood. It has an air of mystery and is often associated with something dark and foreboding, which can add depth to a character. For example, a detective with the last name Blackwood could be investigating a spooky case.
Ravencrest. The combination of 'raven' which is often associated with mystery and death in many cultures, and 'crest' which gives a sense of nobility, makes it a great last name. A Ravencrest could be an ancient family with dark secrets in the story.
Winters. It can bring to mind coldness and isolation. A character named Elizabeth Winters could be a lonely figure in a post - apocalyptic story, shivering in the frozen ruins.
How about 'Thornhill'? It has a bit of an edgy and mysterious feel. 'Moonstone' is also quite unique and can give the character an otherworldly quality. And 'Ravenscroft' sounds spooky and would be great for a character in a gothic - style story.
One scary last name could be Mortimer. It sounds like it has a connection to death ('mort' in Latin means death). The last name 'Bleak' is also quite frightening as it brings to mind desolate and gloomy places. Also, 'Ravenwood' is spooky because ravens are often associated with death and mystery in stories, and the 'wood' part adds to the eerie atmosphere of a dark forest.
Blackwood. This has a bit of a mysterious and spooky feel to it. It's great for characters in a mystery or horror story, perhaps a reclusive family with secrets in a big, old manor.