The hierarchy within the Martial Association is strict, divided into Outer Sect Disciple, Inner Sect Disciple, Steward, Helmsman, Elder, Protector, and Association President. The Elders are further divided into Nine Bags, from one to nine, with the higher numbers representing greater power.
A Three-Bag Elder, for instance, ranked in the lower-middle tier among all Elders in the Martial Association, but outside the organization, he was considered an immensely powerful figure. Even Xue Gang had to find ways to curry favor with such a person. This was precisely why Xue Gang was willing to act as Huang Zhijie's henchman.
