Interesting story, . You asked for opinions on the story, so I will share a few thoughts. I wasn't quite able to follow. I think if you added more details it would help the reader to understand the location, setting and situation. Here are a few examples, in case it helps.
I was not alone in the canvas structure. It was filled to the brim with people trying to crane their necks and stroke my ego.
Ah, here I learn that this narrator is in a canvas structure surrounded by people. This is the third paragraph, so I had no vision of where the story was taking place until now. Who are the people? Why are they stroking the narrator's ego? And who is this narrator? An archeologist, perhaps?
In the same paragraph:
I felt really good, knowing all these people had come to hear his account of what was truly a long, arduous and boring personal adventure.
As this is the first reference to any individual other than himself (or herself), I don't understand who he is referring to when he says "knowing all these people had come to hear his account."
Those are a few examples of where just a little more information would help us to better understand what is going on. Where is this land? What is the scenario that led to this person standing in front of people talking about a stone tablet? Why are people dropping dead?
This story has the makings of a very interesting tale that I would love to read, but with so many details left out, it's very hard to follow. I hope this helps you!
Also, an additional important note: please be sure to use your own images, or images from creative commons sites (e.g. Pixabay, Unsplash) and cite the source for your images.
RE: Scenic Views - #3