(A) - (III) ascent → "Ascent" means upward climb/slope, perfect for describing the steep path up the hill. "Assent" means agreement.
(B) - (IV) flare → "Flare" means to blaze up suddenly or spread outward, describing colour spreading in cheeks. "Flair" means natural talent.
(C) - (i) assent → "Assent" means agreement/approval from the crowd. "Ascent" means upward climb.
(D) - (II) flair → "Flair" means natural talent or ability, used for someone's skill. "Flare" means sudden flame/spread.
Hence, Option 2: (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (i), (D) - (II) → Each homonym pair (ascent/assent and flare/flair) sounds similar but has distinct meanings, and the correct words fit the context of their respective sentences perfectly → correct