Bakuman. 2

Mashiro and Takagi name their manga while facing competition from Fukuda's Road Racer.

Mashiro updates character designs while Takagi struggles to name three characters and choose a title. Orihara returns as an assistant alongside new hires Moriya and Shiratori, who debate whether to prioritize sales or artistic integrity. Mashiro advises drawing for enjoyment rather than cultural value, as they are not yet skilled enough. Takagi settles on the title "Perfect Crime Party," or PCP. Meanwhile, Fukuda works on Road Racer Buchigiri. The team anxiously awaits the voting results, pitting their story-based manga against the flashy Road Racer. PCP wins first place with 422 votes, surprising editors who note that CROW received only 401 votes and +Natural received 310. This achievement is notable because CROW lacked a one-shot competitor at the time. Fukuda’s Road Racer also receives serialization. Upon learning that +Natural dropped to eighth place, Iwase and Niizuma become motivated. Finally, Mashiro, Takagi, and Hattori visit Mashiro’s uncle’s grave to share the news, imagining a proud response.