Format question

These games that are going on right now, are they a qualification for ascendant thing, which is supposed to be one level under the franchise?

yes

This is a common misconception ever since the format is revealed.

Challengers =/= Ascension.

Challengers are the same old Challengers we've been accustomed to since 2021. Same deal, same format (depending on the region), same action. The difference is now with the creation of the International Leagues, Challengers isn't considered as Tier 1 competition, but Tier 2.

Technically you're correct, but the more apt answer is that these games are a chance for teams to qualify for Challengers, where they'll compete in Challengers for a shot at Ascension.

So:
Open Qualifiers -> Challengers Main Event (Group Stage/Playoffs) -> Ascension