There are few NPCs in Elden Ring that are genuinely helpful. Most help is actually them manipulating you for their true - often dark - intentions. Even Fia's hugs aren't what they first appear. But, there's one who stands above the rest, and is faithful to the end: the pope tortoise Miriel. So, naturally, one player decided to brutally murder him.
Miriel is the steward of the Church of Vows, found to the East of the Liurnia Lakes, accessible on foot or via a portal in Raya Lucaria Academy. He's a kind, gentle old tortoise that explains the history of the world to you and will gladly teach you sorceries and incantations if you bring him scrolls or prayer books. He's just an all-round good guy.
VG_Crimson wanted to put his kindness to the test, and shared their tale on Reddit. They started a new game plus run and their curiosity got the better of them.
Miriel knows he's a strong boi, and after your first few swings he'll comment about how trying to kill him is futile. Crimsons claims his HP bar is akin to that of a boss. Halfway through, he admores your determination and says all will be forgiven if you simply stop. He's just too pure.
What happens when you strike the final blow is best described by Crimson. "His cries of pain haunt my very morality. It's a sad scream, much higher pitched than you'd expect from one of his size. [...] Never again will he ask that you learn together. [...] I have to live with this on my soul now, don't do this. There is nothing to gain, and you lose not only the convenience of him, but you lose a part of yourself too."
The Church of Vows is an important location in the game, as it's where you can attone for you sins - revert any relationship changes you did by accidentally hitting a friendly NPC you shouldn't have. Apparently, "If you try to get absolved from hurting/killing him it is not needed. This is probably because he has already forgiven you."
Excuse me while I go and cry and try to hug my very alive Miriel.