The Skull of Skoldjir

Rayan has an exciting new project. He's writing a book. Its about a group of Viking-esque dragonslayers. He's several chapters into it and having a good time so far. His writing is pretty basic so far - short on description, but long on plot, but that makes it easy to read. I could wish some other authors had better plotting skills, including some of my favs. Here's an excerpt:

Chapter Three: Preparation

The next morning when Thorsten woke up, He nudged Valkyrie. “Let’s go get Ingdor, eat breakfast, and talk to the king,” he said. Ingdor was standing in front of his window. “I see your awake, Ingdor,” said Thorsten.
“Yes, I have been for quite some time. I’m starved. Let’s see what there is to eat here,” replied Ingdor. As they entered the dining hall, they were welcomed by shouts from their crew.
“Hey, Thorsten! Try these potatoes! They’re wonderful!” cried one of the crew members.
“And the ham is good too!” cried another. They sat down and began to eat. As soon as they were finished, a messenger entered room
“Sir Thorsten, the king wishes to see you” said the messenger.
“Very well,” said Thorsten. He, Valkyrie, and, Ingdor followed the messenger to the throne room.
“I wish to speak with Thorsten alone,” said the king.
“Valkyrie and Ingdor will be accompanying me fully during this quest. Whatever you wish to say to me, you can say to them,” said Thorsten.
“Fair enough,” said the king.
“Now, where is this dragon you wish us to slay, and what shall be the reward?” asked Thorsten.
“The dragon’s name is Skjoldir, currently residing in the north. I will provide you enough food and drink to get there and back, along with three Fangthaine. Your reward will be enough gold to pay your crew and to last the three of you a lifetime,” said the king.
“I ask one more thing of you,” said Thorsten.
“What might that be?” asked the king.
“Have one of your men lead my crew back to my ship. Leave them food, water, and mead. I do not wish to leave my ship alone,” replied Thorsten.
“It shall be done, but what if you fail?” said the king.
“Then my ship is yours,” replied Thorsten.
“Prepare for your journey. I have made a map to Skjoldir’s skull,” said the king.
“His… skull?” asked Valkyrie
Thorsten, Valkyrie, and Ingdor departed to their rooms to prepare themselves.