Cedric's voice is soft. He really doesn't want to distress Howard like that. "I'll give it my best. Promise."

He releases the locks as quietly as he can, tentatively lifting it with one hand and listening. If they see him, they'll only be able to shoot his hand off. So far, nothing. That's his cue to lift his head.

Nothing but the sound of his pounding heart. He slowly hauls himself out of the sewer, the cover clutched tightly to one arm. At any second he expects the shots to start. But it seems clear. The robot army is still audible, but they're on another street for now. There are a few seconds of precious time, he confirms, looking around at all angles.

Then he waits a few seconds more, waiting to see if he's triggered an ambush attack. When that passes, he outstretches his hand with a whisper. "We have a moment. Come on!"