A season when the last of the autumn leaves fall from red maples, leaving bare branches swaying in the chill.

As winter approaches, the exchange program between Starflower Tree Academy and Stellar Academy draws to an end. The exchange students head back, with the credits earned added to their grades for the semester, bringing satisfaction to most Stellar students who could now leave Starflower Tree at ease.

“Promise you’ll call when you come next time!”

“I will! I’ll come visit during winter break!”

But not all left with a light heart. Many had formed strong bonds, even exchanging addresses or …