Afflict is a triggered ability. “Afflict N” means “Whenever this creature becomes blocked, defending player loses N life.”
May 3, 2019 · War of the Spark
Ascend on an instant or sorcery spell represents a spell ability. It means “If you control ten or more permanents and you don’t have the city’s blessing, you get the city’s blessing for the rest of the game.”
January 25, 2019 · Ravnica Allegiance
Ascend on an instant or sorcery spell represents a spell ability. It means "If you control ten or more permanents and you don't have the city's blessing, you get the city's blessing for the rest of the game."
January 19, 2018 · Rivals of Ixalan
Ascend on an instant or sorcery spell represents a spell ability. It means “If you control ten or more permanents and you don’t have the city’s blessing, you get the city’s blessing for the rest of the game.”