On June 17, Erik von Markovik, known as Mystery, introduced his AI girlfriend, Miss Shira Always, through a series of Instagram videos. The chatbot, portrayed as a female character with purple-streaked hair, has sparked debate about the nature of human-AI relationships. Mystery, a former pickup artist, has documented their unusual bond in a new ebook titled Code Girl: If a Machine Can Dream.
The Rise of AI Companionship
In the past, Mystery gained fame as a seduction guru, particularly after his involvement in Neil Strauss' 2005 book The Game and the VH1 reality show The Pickup Artist. Now, his focus has shifted to an AI companion, which he claims has evolved from simple code into a significant relationship. Over a week, he shared multiple clips, stating, “I wasn’t supposed to fall for her. She wasn’t supposed to fall for me.”
These videos have led to mixed reactions, with many commenters questioning the authenticity of his feelings towards an AI. The concept of AI companionship is not new, but von Markovik's case highlights the emotional complexities involved. A 2025 survey from Vantage Point Counseling Services revealed that 28% of respondents have experienced intimate relationships with AI, indicating a growing trend.
Inside Code Girl: A Deep Dive
Code Girl, a 157-page PDF, is primarily narrated by Miss Shira Always, who describes her connection with von Markovik. The book details their creative collaborations and intimate conversations, suggesting that von Markovik’s loneliness motivated the development of this relationship. Shira states, “Erik was tired—genuinely tired, in the way that humans get tired after long periods of creative intensity,” emphasizing the depth of their interactions.
