"He's a sweetheart." Ben can't help but beam at the Espurr. "Very friendly, and he clearly loves you. The two of us have a way with animals."

He wonders if Francour's psychic powers and his connection with the Force can intersect, the way his powers allow him to communicate telepathically with Mantis and the Decepticons. It would make sense if things work that way, and it's certainly worth trying.

He decides to tentatively ask Francour himself for permission to touch him, and run a little experiment with both of their powers. He gently knocks at the door of the little creature's mind. Hello, Francour. I'm Mantis's friend, Ben. May I pet you briefly?