Fox’s Fringe, starring Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, and John Noble and directed by Brad Anderson, is a show that never quite seems to answer the mysteries posed in the show. Tonight’s episode delves deep into its mythology, particularly the mystery surrounding the Observer, a man who never seems quite human and has been witnessed at many events throughout the centuries.

The press packet that accompanied this episode was interesting enough to peak my interest, even though I have watched this show since it first premiered in 2008. It included three pictures—one photograph and two paintings—that have the Observer sneakily incorporated and are featured on the show. They are famous representations of important events: Paul Revere’s depiction of the Boston Tea Party, a photograph of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife in Sarajevo in 1914 moments before being murdered, and a portrait of Marie Antoinette being led to the gallows during the French Revolution. The package also came with a bottle of hot sauce, used by the Observer so that he can taste food, and a letter written in the Observer’s language, truly undecipherable to the untrained eye.

These objects all add to the mystery that surrounds these seemingly inhuman creatures. All Observers look the same: male, bald head, and no eyebrows, wearing a 60s-style suit and hat. They are emotionless creatures, yet seem to be compassionate to the human race.

The episode, entitled “August,” follows the stories of an Observer of the same name. This is the first we learn that there is more than one Observer and that they have names. Observers are only supposed to view events in time, but never interfere—if they do meddle, they must correct what they have wronged. Such is the premise of tonight’s episode. August saves the life of a girl who was scheduled to die on a flight on her way to Italy. This dredges up old memories for Walter (John Noble) in regards to his son Peter (Joshua Jackson), because Walter persuaded an Observer to save Peter when Peter was just a child.

But not all is serious in the show. Walter, forever the comic relief, is on the quest for the perfect milkshake and Olivia (Anna Torv) shows her human side away from her rough FBI exterior, something we usually only see when she is around family, as is the case in this episode.

Fringe poses more questions to the audience than answers, and this episode is no different. I have always wanted to learn more about the Observers and their story, and “August” sheds more light on these elusive creatures. The episode ends on the same note of intrigue and mystery that got its viewers hooked in the first place and will continue to have the steady stream of loyal fans.

Fringe airs Thursday, November 19, at 9:00pm on Fox.