Several noble houses have held the title since the War of Conquest. After the death of Harren the Black and his sons, Aegon the Conqueror granted the castle to House Qoherys as a reward for its loyalty until the line died out. The following families to rule Harrenhal were the Towers, Harroways, Strongs, and Lothstons, all of which became extinct, leading to the popular belief that the castle is cursed. Following House Lothston, the Whents become the new Lords of Harrenhal, until the castle is occupied by House Lannister during the early stage of the War of the Five Kings, while Lady Shella Whent flees from it.