The withered (or Withered) are nightfallen who could not find sources of arcane to feed their starvation and fell into a mindless, feral withered state. Withered are considered beyond redemption and there is no cure yet to their state. They are not only consumed by a burning thirst for the Nightwell but are tormented by their former memories, truly a fate worse than death.[1] One of the final symptoms just before turning is that the nightfallen will lose their eyesight.[2] It is surprising that the withered don't try to eat their own clothing when it contains innate power.[3]
Though they are physically similar to the wretchedblood elves, they are fundamentally different. The transformation into wretched is due to over-indulgence and reckless abuse of arcane magic, whereas withered are a result of withdrawal from the energies of the Nightwell.[5]