I would not obsess over the equipement in D'Arnise. I don't think it is that important. My opinion. As Alaric sais you can't dual class your monk but I would encourage you to stay with him. Later on, you can acheive up to 60% magic resistance, hands become +4 at a certain point, it is just in the lower levels that they suck but are well worth the pain later on.
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Order of the Holy Flame
Member of Clan HADB