Not deadly, not going to be bad.
Answer: Vǫluspá is the first and best known poem of the Poetic Edda. It tells the story of the creation of the world and its coming end, related to the audience by a völva addressing Odin. It is one of the most important primary sources for the study of Norse mythology.
Explanation:
This is a good observation. The General reveals to Rainsford that Rainsford himself will be the hunted in page 11-15 of the story. So, your observation is correct. There is a delay in introducing the main conflict. The main reason for this is to keep Rainsford in suspense and study his reaction.