Both the etchings and helm-pettings continued unabated as time dragged on, energy building throughout. It wasn't obvious, given the overly elaborate nature of the glyphs themselves, but the entire set of markings would eventually form a circuit around Mirage's frame; a natural conduit for energy.

They both just needed to hang in there until the ritual was completed.

Mirage kept his pain-sounds to a minimum, both because of his own, concentrated effort not to rile Cliffjumper up again - and the distraction of having a Cliffjumper to pet in the first place. It was oddly soothing, and a very good distraction from the more painful elements of the ritual.

For such a harsh, grumpy little mech, Cliffjumper's helm-armor was smooth and his dazed field contrasted well against his own. Perhaps Mirage would have to arrange something like this more often...