1. Speeding up the plot to move the story forward and build tension.
Explanation: Suspense is the feeling or state of excitement or anxiousness that comes from a certain scene or occurrence. This feeling makes the readers be on their edge, in anticipation of what is to come yet is unsure what to expect. In the given excerpt from "Cruel Tribute", the suspense is created by the speeding up of the plot. This fast-paced narration, presenting the scenes in such a way heightens the readers' anticipation, leaving them on the edge. It also presents the scene in such a way that there is a feeling of some disaster waiting for the escapees. It fast-forwarded the plot, building tension along the way. Thus, the correct answer is the first option.
