Once a spell or ability that causes you to recruit begins to resolve, no player may take any other actions until it's done. Any responses made to the spell or ability must be made before you draw, discard, and potentially create a token.

The ability that defines Esgaroth Garrison's power works in all zones, not just the battlefield. As long as Esgaroth Garrison is on the battlefield (and still a creature), that ability will count Esgaroth Garrison itself.