Merlin plot bunny - Jonathan Bailey, poly Gwen and Arthur ship?
Lord Calix
The son of one of Uther's closest friends and allies, got grievously wounded in battle and eventually died of those injuries (in front of his ten year old son)
To honour his sacrifice, Uther brings his friend's son to Camelot as a ward to the crown. Calix grew up alongside Arthur and Morgana, not quite a part of the royal family but always treated well and is very respected at court, and he takes a lot on his shoulders to prove himself worthy of that – and of the fact that everyone knows that when Arthur becomes king, Calix will be his right hand.
Not sure yet how/when the ship vibes come in, it probably starts with vibes between Arthur and Calix but with Calix also picking up on Arthur's feelings for Gwen












