Gareth of Naxen (GAHR-eth of NAKS-enn), also referred to as Gareth the Elder, is a Tortallan nobleman who was the head of the powerful Naxen family, a ducal house. He held the title Duke of Naxen. He was a close adviser to King Roald I while Roald was king, and served as Prime Minister and King's Champion. His sister, Lianne of Naxen married into the Conté family, becoming Queen of Tortall, so Duke Gareth was also the King's brother-in-law. He served as the pages' training master while Alanna of Trebond went through her training years. Duke Gareth is the husband of Roanna of Irimor and the father of Sir Gareth the Younger. He has four grandchildren through Gary and his wife, Lady Cythera. He is the uncle of King Jonathan IV and great-uncle to the King's six children.