The robes of the Radiant Star Sect were quite distinctive. They were dense black robes embroidered with a silver that radiated its own light. It seemed that the brightness of this silver light dictated just what level of disciple you were, and these three were clearly Inner Disciples.
The level of a disciple wasn't decided by their cultivation level, but rather their skill. There was a large mix of cultivation Realms amongst similarly leveled disciples.
However, each disciple rank did have its own cut off. This was decided based on talent, age, cultivation Realm, and how long you had been in the Sect. Ultimately, whether you were allowed to stay, demoted, or kicked out, was all decided by the Elders and Deacons of your rank.
These were things that Ryu would likely learn about later, but for now he had to endure being looked down upon from above. He really hated that feeling, but he couldn't even fly in this world, so he couldn't change it even if he wanted to.
