I've been rereading my notes, Player, and I think the reason why the Quartz Rod didn't work was because it didn't have enough energy.

You see, the Quartz Rod powers the Rift Orb, so, obviously, it won't work if it doesn't have enough energy.

We need to replenish the Rod's energy and it should power up the orb. Now we just need to figure out what kind of energy it uses.

Player: "Some type of Balaur energy, maybe?"

That's exactly what I was thinking. The Balaur made it, so it must be something they would use.

Surkana Fragments, perhaps. They would have used it back in the day when the document was first written...still use it to this day, too.

Will you get some, Player? This might be the last piece of the puzzle.

Player: Accept.

From my research, I know that the Balaur use Gathering Worms to harvest Dranas. And these worms have Surkana in their flesh.

They're all over Mephistis Farm, Angrief Wastes and Hanarkand Plains.

So, kill Collector Spallers, Plain Spallers, and Crater Spallers, and you should come up with Surkana Fragments.

Player: "I hope this works."

The [%userclass]-turned-Scholar has returned!

How did it go? Did you kill the Gathering Worms?

Give me the Surkana Fragments and I'll see if it recharges the Quartz Rod.

Player: "Here you go...."

You haven't left to get the Surkana yet? Stormwing's seal weakens with every wasted minute, Player!

You remember what Faithful Respondent Utra said would happen if Stormwing ever got out, don't you?

We don't have time for games. You must find the Surkana Fragments as soon as you can!

Player: "I'll get the Surkana now."

(Pilomenes holds the Quartz Rod in one hand and the Surkana Fragments in the other as he chants a spell.)

No, no, no...this isn't working! This damn Surkana doesn't have enough energy!

We need to think of something else, Player. And quick.