Our ancestors probably play similar rolls of that of your guardians, except that they lived much before we even came to be. The only beings I'm aware that live while we exist was the Condesce and perhaps my own ancestor based on her relation with him. But even I'm not sure of all the details! Unfortunately, he refuses to say anything on the matter and I can't communicate to the dead here. Or at the moment.

Terezi has been licking you hasn't she! [She only knows one person who'd lick him!] I think she has a flavor for each of us at this time. I hope you get your body back soon though! I once got put back into my soulbot which was rather awkward.