Create an illustration of a mysterious character with cat-like ears and an elegant, minimalist outfit in a classic Edward Gorey style. Use intricate cross-hatching to convey shadows and texture, particularly on the character’s sheer sleeves and dark bodysuit. The character should have a neutral, enigmatic expression, emphasizing a sense of detachment. Render the pose with a slight, stylized stiffness, reminiscent of 19th-century portraiture, yet with an unnatural, almost surreal quality. Keep the background minimal, with soft textures or faint shadows to evoke emptiness and emphasize the character. Add a subtle symbolic element, such as a shadow of a black cat or a small floating clock, to enhance the Gothic atmosphere and hint at deeper meanings.