It's crazy that he hasn't realized how absolutely lucky he is to have Novem. He should rely on her more.
Whatever happens, just let Novem handle it. She should be the party leader.
Don't even try, just get Novem on with the plan, she'll make all his dreams come true.
All he needs is to speak truthfully to her, like, once in a lifetime to set things straight, and everything will fall into place.