If Leroux still considered himself on par with Gu Hang as the Northern Commander, then what's the point of authorization?
There would be no need to serve as a ground battle commander; he could directly command all Imperial Army forces, wouldn't that suffice?
He didn't do that.
He wanted to take command, and his first reaction was to seek authorization from Gu Hang, which impressed Gu Hang greatly.
It was quite humble and fully acknowledged Gu Hang's leadership position.
This attitude satisfied Gu Hang.
As for apologies and the like, Gu Hang didn't particularly care.
Apologies are more about personal concession; if there's none, there's none. Gu Hang wouldn't force, much less act arrogantly.
