That's fine, I'll continue to lurk. If I did join I would strongly prefer to have only one character, as more would become difficult to manage, so that's not a problem. If the party finds itself lacking in a particular area as time goes on I'll be happy to fill the gap.
I think he is referring to the Rank advantages, 5 points/level. Merchant is listed as a possible type, along with Military, Religious, and Administrative, iirc. It is used in settings with an organised "Merchant Marine".