Seems like I can not control the monster..this part of the tutorial is endless. Any hints? I hit the 9 key as the tutorial asked and targeted the monster...but hed just come right after me and the mage kept throwing spells at me.

Hold the 9 key. Worked for me.

Or choose the sign from the quick-menu and press and hold Q while targeting the monster. This sign needs a while before working, unlike the others.

Yeah I'm surprised the tutorial didn't emphasize this point. The mind-control sign button needs to be held down for several seconds until you gain control over the unit.

Actually if I remember right, it does say in the tutorial that you have to hold it down.