Deuce contracts with Azul in Book 3, using his cauldron-summoning ability as collateral in exchange for a study guide that he was to use to earn a high enough score to break into the top fifty.
When he fails to do so he is bound in “absolute obedience” to Azul.
Despite his suffering of Book 3, Deuce empathizes with Azul when the other students pass around a photo of him from elementary school: “I totally get what you’re feeling. Everybody’s got a past they wish they could erase! I saw nothing! Neither did the rest of you, okay?! Never speak of this again!”
Deuce is in a group with Azul and Epel during Glorious Masquerade.
Azul soon judges them to be too honest, saying that “being around (them) is throwing (him) off.”
When Rollo describes a pastry that is said to bring riches to those who eat them Deuce teases Azul by saying it sounds like the perfect treat for him.
Azul responds, “there’s a world of difference between simply hoping for providence while doing nothing and covering every possible base.”
When Deuce is confused Azul explains, “It means there’s no point in crossing your fingers and hoping for good grades on a test if you didn’t bother studying for it.”
Azul asks Rollo if there are any treats that improve test scores. When there are not he responds, “Isn’t that just terrible, Deuce?” (Deuce: “Rgh… I can’t even argue with that…”)
Deuce is surprised when Azul goes shopping for souvenirs for members of Octavinelle (“You’re going to actually give them away… for FREE?!”).
Azul says, “This is a fine chance to convey my gratitude to them,” and Deuce apologizes for his rudeness. (Azul: “Though I never said I wouldn’t expect anything in return…”)
Azul gifts Epel and Deuce with pencils as souvenirs, surprising Deuce: “You’re so easy to talk with, Azul. And you’ve got a great sense of humor, too. I actually thought you’d be more intimidating.”
Azul reflects, “To think, one little pencil was all it took to soften them up. My plan was to befriend some trusting freshmen so the next few years at school would be easier…But these two are alarmingly credulous. I can only imagine how rough Vil and Riddle have it.”
Azul tells Deuce and Epel and they make him fearful for Night Raven College’s future.
Twisted Wonderland Reference Note 