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From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
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After a certain point, almost every legionary would undergo the voluntary implantation of the [[Butcher's Nails]], the psycho-surgical implants that heightened aggression and pain tolerance to extreme levels. A side-effect of these devices would soon become apparent; they robbed the wearer of peace, satisfaction or joy except when stimulated in battle. While the effect of the Nails was not identical from person to person, the shared burden of bearing them would unite all World Eaters (and even their sire, Angron) in a bond of tortured familiarity. The World Eaters volunteered for the Nails, not just to receive the combat benefits, but because they wished to become closer to their primarch, and perhaps even understand him. In some sense, their embrace of the destructive brain surgery could be said to have been spiritual.{{Fn|15e, 14f}}
After their fall to Chaos, the legion's blood-rites and traditions swiftly became ritualised and transformed into a worship of [[Khorne]]. It is not unknown for World Eaters officers to have given themselves over to [[daemonic possession]], and the presence of such [[Possessed (Chaos Space Marines)|possessed marines]] in legion formations is often seen as a sign of Khorne's esteem. The effect of the Butcher's Nails is also said to reinforce the World Eater's devotions to their patron, as slaying in his name is said to grant them an experience of unholy joy.{{Fn|19a}}
==Recruitment==
