With the events of the last vol done, there is still the angle of what is Will's next path. An interesting conversation between Finn and Iris. It seems these two are well acquainted. In some sense, Iris is getting invested in Will's journey. I am interested in how much she is acquainted with Elfie or is more so in contact with Sarissa. Though Caldron is still getting in Finn's way. She awards Will to enter the tower because of the spell courage he made. Although given Finn's involvement, it seems something the magic community wasn't aware of.
Also, I like the focus on Edward with his shock. It's much apparent now he didn't want Will to be pushed into despair like he did when he failed. Furthermore, given how strong he is with the sword and being with Finn would be a much better fit. Although Will is all about going against the odds, so hopefully things turn out well for him. We do get a nice flashback of Elfie not wanting to go to the magical school and the tower if Will won't be there. It makes Will's admiration be two-sided, which is sweet.
When they enter the first level of the tower it really blows their mind. Sion is clearly aware of something that some of the others aren't. More so indicating just being in the tower isn't all it is made up to be. When the blooming starts, each student gets recruited via their robes changing color. Being colorless implies not being chosen. What is actually curious is that Julius wasn't recruited as well. More than likely, Elfie got pissed off at him bullying Will. It does have an ironic favor of connections can help you and ruin you at the same time. The flashback with Elfie talking to Sarissa was really nice to get an insight on her mindset during the blooming event. Where she gets frustrated that more roadblocks are in her way to recruiting Will. Though Sarissa has the point that him not being able to use magic will scrutinize him like it was at school. He needs to be accepted by everyone first.
Interesting to what Sion was referring to is what is called the Wand Graveyard. Which is what the 1st level of the Tower represents. Will and Julius get to prove their worth, but ultimately Elfie won't give him a look. Regardless whether it is fair or not, given she is the Magia Vander for Ice magic, and he burned his connection to it. Once again, Will shows off using Julius's magic to prove his worth. Of course, everything goes well until Kreutz who Elfie mentioned in her flashback, is getting in your way again. He does present mostly valid points since Will himself can't use magic and magic is considered supreme in this world. The problem is: He uses a scenario when Will needs to use magic. Unlike with Edward-sensei he did for Will's benefit even if he knew it was going to hurt him. With Kreutz it is clear he has no intention of letting a sword ascend the tower.
Kreutz arrogance is on full display when he believes he will unravel the courage spell. Though it is difficult to really make out what was that power Will was using. Since it is still a mystery. At the very least, Will and Julius get another shot. I am curious if they can make the most of it. Since Rostei is alive and didn't report back to the dorm. It brings the case that she represents Elfie while she is at the tower waiting for Will.