Does this mean I won't get legendary until I get 1000 merit?
I was going over 1030 activity next week (still hero at 1022 before the merit system).
I've said before it's harsh for Hero members with over 775 activity to get only 500 merits, and your case is the worst I think!
Yes, you'll need 500 more merit points to be Legendary. I'll go through your posts and grant some merits if deserved.