T.A series Volume 7: Feathers of Fury

Chapter 8 - Faking Justice

At first, the kids didn't know what to make of Professor Shibuya's response regarding his birds being 'disturbed'. Did he refer to his supposed vast collection of preserved stuffed birds like the bald eagle?

Then Ranran knew she had to ask, "Are you referring to the collection of birds similar to the stolen bald eagle you had mentioned earlier?" Ranran asked, trying to gather as much information as possible.

The elderly professor hesitated for a moment, as if unsure whether to share further details. But then he seemed to come to a decision and spoke. "No, aside from that I do admit having it, I also have live ones within the residence."

As soon as the words left Professor Shibuya's mouth, the members of the Tantei Association exchanged surprised glances. Live birds? They hadn't anticipated that their client was not only interested in taxidermized birds but also kept live ones in his residence.

Ranran's curiosity got the better of her, and she couldn't resist asking, "You keep live birds in your home? What kind of birds are they?"

The elderly professor looked a little uncomfortable as he replied, "Various species of birds, both local and exotic. I have a fondness for observing them and studying their behaviour up close."

"Just out of curiosity, may I know...what breed do you have?" Shinichi inquired.

"Hmph....let me recall, "The ornithologist rubbed his chin before revealing, "I have songbirds like canaries and finches, as well as some parakeets and cockatiels. I also have a few pigeons, doves, and quails. Additionally, I have a pair of African Grey parrots and a few rarer species like the Eclectus parrot and the Hyacinth macaw. And many many more."

Shinichi and the others were taken aback by the impressive array of bird species the professor mentioned. It was evident that he was truly passionate about his work as an ornithologist.

"That's quite an extensive collection," Emiko remarked, trying to keep the conversation flowing.

Professor Shibuya nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "Yes, it brings me great joy to be surrounded by these beautiful creatures every day. They are like my children."

"How many birds do you have roughly in total?" Mouri Ran asked.

Professor Shibuya paused for a moment as if mentally counting his feathered companions. "I think I have around 150 birds in total if we don't count the eggs that aren't hatched yet," he replied. "Each of them holds a special place in my heart."

"Wow, that's a lot of birds to take care of," Takuma exclaimed.

"It is indeed a big responsibility, but I find immense joy in observing their behaviour and learning from them," Professor Shibuya explained. "Each species has its unique traits and habits, and studying them helps me gain a deeper understanding of the avian world."

"You must have had a large compound built to accommodate those birds, right? Cause I know some of those birds belonged to the wilderness." Junko questioned the elderly man.

"Yes, of course," The ornithologist nodded, "It wasn't possible to raise them at some apartment in the city like Tokyo for instance, so I had to live at some mansion with a large compound to raise them."

The thought of a mansion filled with various birds was intriguing to them. Though for some reason, Shinichi couldn't help but noted Junko is shivering at that thought for some reason.

Emiko couldn't help but wonder, "Do you have any rare or endangered birds in your collection?"

"Yes I do," Professor Shibuya's face grew serious as he replied, "Which is why I am very cautious when it comes to acquiring birds for my collection. I strictly adhere to ethical guidelines and ensure that all the birds I keep are legally obtained and not endangered. I don't want to contribute to any illegal wildlife trade or endanger any species further."