It wasn't the first time John had been compared to a dog, and it didn't bother him in the slightest. After all, in its way, Venom followed the comment with a compliment.
"The discretion isn't just for you," he responded, not emerging from the shadows. He flexed his own, less impressive but still powerful fists in response, sizing the other up as much as he was being evaluated himself. "I was told not to walk the streets covered in blood, it brings attention."
The comment about his own untapped potential made the fresh blood in him stir, with pride. He knew he was expected to grow in power and ability, he knew he would in time if he didn't do anything stupid. "I wouldn't be able to follow you at all if I wasn't. I would more likely be the man we left on the wall. If I hadn't followed greater beings into the dark. Or I would have found them tomorrow, and spent time praying and burying your victims."
He moved forward, this time passing the alien beast, never flinching as he kept to the shadows of their surroundings. "My bones tell me unlocking your mystery is worthwhile."