Create an intricately cross-hatched illustration of a young woman with a serene but distant expression, seated elegantly by a fireplace. Her black, glossy dress reflects a subtle sheen, tightly hugging her silhouette, evoking both elegance and restraint. She wears long gloves and a dark choker with delicate ruffled designs, contributing to a Gothic aesthetic. Her gaze is calm yet enigmatic, hinting at hidden emotions beneath her poised demeanor. Capture the complexity of her character using fine cross-hatching for deep shadows and texture. Render each strand of her flowing black hair with meticulous line work, emphasizing both her ethereal beauty and emotional distance. Employ subtle contrasts between the shimmering material of her outfit and the flickering warmth of the fireplace, reinforcing an atmosphere of melancholy and isolation. For the setting, keep the background minimal, drawing focus to the character. Use symbolic motifs like an antique clock resting on the mantelpiece or a black cat curled in the shadows, evoking mystery and underlying themes of time, transience, and solitude. Employ negative space thoughtfully to enhance the sense of tension and emotional ambiguity, in line with Edward Gorey's distinctive narrative style.