The cult's leader used his [Aura's barrier] and ignore the incoming spell. He let the barrier took care of the spell.
The cult's leader swung both of his arms diagonally in turn. Auron was too close to dodge the sword. Hence, Auron raised his dagger to block the attack. He could stop the first sword. However, the second sword came and hit him.
However, Auron didn't give up. He quickly chanted another spell while backing away. Of course, the cult's leader would not let Auron moved away. He followed Auron closely.
Auron stabbed his dagger in front of him. But, the cult's leader deflected the dagger easily. Then, the cult's leader attacked Auron.
The cult's leader's strategy was to keep on pressuring Auron. He knew that Auron still had some potions. So, he had to prevent Auron from using those potions.