Final answer:
The word 'flustered' in stage directions conveys an anxious tone in the scene, indicating Alicia's distress and creating a feeling of tension.
Therefore, option D is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word flustered in the stage directions to Alicia suggests that she is in a state of agitated confusion or nervousness. The use of the word flustered affects the tone of the scene by creating an anxious tone, as it conveys Alicia's distress and heightens the sense of urgency or tension for the audience. The tone of a scene is indicative of the atmosphere or the author's attitude toward the subject or the audience, and word choices like flustered significantly contribute to establishing this tone. Unlike options A, B, and C, which imply relaxation, gloominess, and focus, the notion of being flustered aligns with feelings of anxiety.