"Xu Manor?" I ask, narrowing my eyes as I remember the people I knew of that family.

"Yes, Xu Manor. Looking at you, you seem like a young fellow fit for learning. From at your attitude to the way you walk, you seem to have had an education before. Perhaps, you may use that to your advantage and take the imperial examination. "

...

First, he assumes I am a male and then he goes off topic? What is wrong with him?

"How does that relate to Xu Manor?" I asked in an annoyed tone.

"Oh, my apologies! I forgot to tell you. The Xu clan of Gefeng is a prestigious clan in the nation.  They hold a significant amount of power and have been well-known officials since the founding emperor. They often gather poor youths into their academy to learn before participating in the imperial examination and glorifying the country. "