Tetrabots, or BOTs, created advanced AIs which ultimately led them to morph themselves with machines in order to maximize their full potential. The mysterious screen on top of their heads is their way of communicating with the outside world using imagery rather than speaking- is this to avoid divulging their secrets to other 8liens? 8lien civilization has increased logarithmically thanks to the BOTs, however no more than eighty-eight can ever exist for fear they may one day threaten even the Ethereals.