The third volume of the Haibane Renmei story (Episodes 8, 9 and 10) continues the beautiful tradition of the previous episodes. While the previous episodes have set up plenty of mysteries, this volume begins to answer some of them while raising new questions. In fact, Rakka is asking a number of questions about the nature and purpose of the Haibane, the town, and the wall. Some of her questions are universal: for example, if we all come suddenly into this world and leave just as suddenly, what is the purpose of my existence?Despite the new bond that forms between Rakka and Reki at the end of the second volume, Rakka's instincts are still to isolate herself from others whenever she faces emotional pain. She feels that she does not belong in this world. The kindness that she receives from the other Haibane at Old Home and from the people of the town only makes her feel unworthy and guilty. She wishes that she could just disappear. She nearly gets her wish when she becomes trapped at the bottom of a dry well. There she finds the key to her cocoon dream. As a result, Rakka learns (and finds out that she needs to learn more) about the nature of sin, of forgiveness and of atonement, but not before she breaks a cardinal rule of the Haibane Renmei.In the tenth episode, there is a flashback to Reki's birth as a Haibane and the relationship between her, Kuramori and Nemu. It is a bittersweet story about how Nemu and Reki became true friends under the loving protection of Kuramori. Also, the episode contains an important revelation about the wall that surrounds the town.The Haibane Renmei series is beautiful animation telling an engaging story with characters about whom the viewer will truly care. If you have not seen this series, you are denying yourself a great treasure.