The fall of Gilead has arrived. Commanding an army of soldiers and slow mutants, John Farson and Marten Broadcloak have come to the city itself in advance of Roland's expectations. Their preparations are incomplete, but the remaining Gunslingers have unearthed the ancient defenses that Arthur Eld built into his capital.

However, the massive numbers brought by Farson quickly overwhelm the city's defenses. As Roland leads the few survivors of Gilead to escape through the city's sewer system, Martin Broadcloak hoists the Crimson King's flag over Gilead.