Novus weapon upgrade system findings

[Zaiken]

Wanted to ask something,
1. can i buy Alexendrite before the Novus quest- using 200 allied seals ?
2. Can i Solo Mysterious map ?

Thanks

1.) Yes
2.) Yes, with a Chocobo Healer. One that may give you trouble though is the Marboro, need a class that can stun the bad breath. And then there the Cyclop where it spawn bomb.

I have no trouble Solo every map with Warrior, Paladin and Chocobo healer.