The World Eaters: A Legacy of Blood and Chaos
Early History and Formation
The XII Legion, also known as the World Eaters, was formed on Terra from a diverse group of recruits. The exact process of their formation is shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that an experimental screening process led to the selection of the most aggressive and competitive candidates. This would set the tone for the Legion’s future reputation as a fierce and savage force.
The Unification Wars and Early Crusade
The nascent Legion was deployed in the Unification Wars, with their first recorded engagement being the Sa’afrik Liberation. However, after their initial battles, they were largely held in reserve, possibly due to concerns about their aggressive nature or as a precautionary measure in case of disloyalty among the Emperor’s troops. Despite this, the Legion continued to grow and train, earning the nickname “War Hounds” from the Emperor himself.
Combat Disposition and Record
The discovery of their Primarch, Angron, marked a significant turning point in the Legion’s history. Their combat disposition altered, becoming even more aggressive and violent. The War Hounds were finally unleashed as a legion force during the Great Crusade, quelling rebellions and leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Notable Engagements
- The Cerberus Insurrection: The War Hounds were sent to quell the rebellion, and their commander reported that no prisoners were taken.
- The Bloody 13th: A brutal campaign marked by massive casualties on both sides.
The Horus Heresy and Beyond
The World Eaters were among the first Legions to turn traitor during the Horus Heresy. They became dedicated followers of the Chaos God Khorne, reveling in violence and slaughter. After the catastrophic Battle of Skalathrax, the Legion was scattered into disparate warbands, rarely fighting as a unified force since.
Legacy
The World Eaters are remembered as one of the deadliest close combat fighters in the galaxy. Their warriors, including the infamous Khorne Berserkers, are feared throughout the galaxy. The Legion’s legacy is one of blood and chaos, a testament to the devastating power of unchecked aggression and violence.
Known Units and Warbands
- The Anointed
- Axes of the Forge
- Ba’ar Zul’s Cleavers
- Berserkers of Skallathrax
- Blood Hounds
- Blood Legion of Khorne
- Bloody Dawn
- Bloodgorged
- Bloodstalkers
- Bonescar
- The Butcherhorde
- Canos Devoratores
- The Crimson Fangs
- The Crimson Covenant
- Crushers of Bone
- Eight Sons
- Fifteen Fangs
- Fire Riders
- The Foresworn
- Garazak’s Skullreapers
- Gladiator Cadre 331
- Gladiator Group 138
- Goghur’s Chosen
- Gorehunters
- Horkrax’s Elect
- Hound’s Jaws
- Lifeslayers
- Lord Skchalick’s Elite
- Magore’s Fiends
- Maws of the Arena
- Murder Bringers
- The Ravagers
- Scalpers of Skalathrax
- The Sanctified
- Skull-blessed
- Skullhunt
- Skulltakers
- Skull Takers of Hans Kho’ren
- Sons of Skalathrax
- The Tide
- Thralls of the Eightfold Cog
- Voidbutchers
- Wrathful Dead
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