Misc Q's from a Monk

Hello all,
I just dinged 20 last week nd have been kinda pondering on what to do next.

I kinda skipped around a lot of the game mainly to adventure and uncover the map. I recently got to the desert (didn't ascend), and managed to join a group to Droknar's. I got a mix of desert collectors and a few pieces from Drok's.

Any must have staff or rod/focus combo that I should get in particular?

Thinking of going U/W sometime... Anything I should do to prepare for it? Skills I should have? (Mo/E currently with Healing/DF/Earth)


What are the must have spells of my current build? Haven't had opportunity to go skill capturing yet.

Something I've been wondering about: Healing or Protection? Which do you think is more viable?

Since I'm already 20, does ascending do anything or is it just to unlock new areas mission wise? Or should I hold off on it and use the XP for like attribute refunds or something?


Thanks in advance and sorry so many Q's