No, you are making up "facts" that don't exist. They can have a small quest related to the recruitment that doesn't actually enlist you. "Trials" or whatever.

Why in the heck would they call it " Recruitment NPC" for this " Event" If the Recruitment NPC isn't going to do anything.
The recruitment NPC can do anything and it doesn't have to require 1.19 in any shape or form.