We really like this (#8, #9). The concept is interesting. It has a cool, forward-motion feel that is consistent with the branding. I'm not sure we want to do anything orange and blue it is a popular combination here due to local and regional sports. Also, can you think of anything we can do different from a fountain pen?
For #8 and similar concepts, I like the tiles. The mosaic effect is definitely appealing. Could we do a progression of color and smaller tiles? Here is an example of what I mean (though it's not a good example necessarily because it looks like there is some kind of abstract face in it):