Create an intricate, surreal illustration of a poised, gothic woman with sleek black hair styled into cat-like ears. Her outfit is a form-fitting, lace-trimmed bodysuit with ruffled details, reflecting a blend of elegance and eccentricity. Her expression remains neutral, evoking a sense of mystery and emotional distance, consistent with Edward Gorey’s signature character design. Apply dense cross-hatching techniques to capture the texture of her outfit, emphasizing the glossy sheen of fabric and delicate lace patterns. Subtle shading should provide depth to her braided hair and accessories, lending a three-dimensional feel. Keep the background minimal, focusing on a few symbolic elements--such as lit candles and shadows of unseen objects--to evoke tension and narrative ambiguity. Include small but meaningful motifs, such as a black cat figure or a distant, ornate clock, subtly hinting at themes of time, identity, or transience. The atmosphere should feel intimate yet eerie, with empty space amplifying the quiet unease and dreamlike quality that is characteristic of Gorey’s work.