Create an illustration of a solitary, elegant figure dressed in a sleek black outfit with intricate lace accents, reminiscent of Victorian Gothic fashion. The character should have feline-like elements, such as subtle cat ears, evoking a whimsical yet eerie tone. Use detailed cross-hatching techniques to render the reflective texture of the outfit, creating contrasts between soft lace and glossy leather. The expression on the character's face should be neutral, capturing the detached, enigmatic quality often seen in Gorey’s figures. Position the figure in a dimly lit room with minimal background details. Include a flickering candle in the corner, casting long shadows that enhance the mood of quiet suspense. Employ negative space strategically, letting the darkness of the room blend with the character’s outfit, emphasizing isolation. Add subtle symbolic motifs, such as a small clock in the background or a black bird perched on a mantel, to evoke a sense of fleeting time and unspoken mystery. The overall scene should convey a delicate tension between elegance, melancholy, and an unearthly stillness.