He continued to move to block the creature's view of the other two, large shield up and deflecting attacks, sword pressing forward to slash at mud. One part that wasn't mud... his eyes go to the thing's mask.

Hm...

From out of the corner of his eyes he caught a glimpse of Monika and Kotarou as they worked their magics. Blood... ah, that would help. He doesn't fall back though, and keeps up the pressure of keeping the creature distracted and focused on himself. No chance to get away if Monika released her hold on it and no way for it to get a read on Kotarou's thoughts. Another step to move out of the way of a mud tendril. Followed by the flick of his wrist to send it flying away.

He could feel its growing desperation and had to fight off a physical grin. Beowulf moved without thinking and acted without thinking as he kept out and off to the side. Away from the appendage as it made its way back to the main body.

All they needed was that additional opening and it would all be over quickly.