Let me just pull something up…
I think if it werent a game, Warren would simply tell MC and maybe the others prepare for the war, which is why MC leaves for a quick while. Acquiring new skills, learning a new magic, dodge reflex, etc. (It explains the placement for Rill Hendix’s quest, as the quest itself implies MC is going around trying to get stronger for the war)
Eventually, they get called by Poseidon and the whole thing happens there.
No mention of “Awakening”, at least it wont be called that.