Lily stood off to the side, careful to be sure her gloves were in place as she watched people pass. Tonight was the night of one of the infamous Mikaelson Balls, and when her co-worker had come up with invitations a few weeks ago, Lily had been over the moon. In the many years of her life, she'd wanted to attend one of these, but the fear of being found always won out. Tonight, however, she would take a chance and enjoy her night. She pushed a lock of deep red hair out of her face, watching the swirling gowns. Lily was grateful she'd chosen black in her gown; the simple A-line dress hid her hips well enough to keep attention off of her, but looked as nice as most of the others around her. She had managed to blend in perfectly.

"Excuse me." The formal voice behind her nearly made her jump, and she turned to see a rather handsome man giving her a smile. He had dark hair and eyes, with a strong jawline and a pleasant build. Instantly, she could feel hunger rise within her, and she was careful to keep it hidden as she returned his smile. "I was hoping you would consider a dance with me." Glancing at the crowd first, she decided one dance wouldn't kill either of them. With a nod, she took his offered hand, surreptitiously checking to make sure her gloves were on securely, and allowed him to lead her to the dance floor. Almost seamlessly, his hands found positions on her waist and cradling her own, guiding her through a waltz. It had been ages since she'd waltzed; perhaps this was a supernatural after all. He certainly didn't smell human, though he did smell delicious. It was taking a surprising amount of her control to keep from feeding right here. "So, may I ask your name?" She almost missed the question, looking up to see him arching a brow with a small smile.

"Lily." They continued the dance, her skirt managing to swirl around their legs without becoming a problem. The light material danced in the currents of their movements, adding an almost fairytale feeling to the night.

"Lily. Lovely name." He gave a nod, his gaze never leaving her even as he managed to avoid other couples. "I'm Elijah."

"A pleasure to meet you, Elijah." The name rang a distant bell, but with her lifespan, if could be literally anything. She shook the feeling off, focusing instead on keeping herself in check. She must have been too obvious, however.

"Are you quite alright?" That brow was arched again, and she briefly wondered just how long this song was going to be.

"Yes. I suppose I'm just interested in learning more about my partner." She gave a charming smile despite herself, and wanted to curse at the slightly dazzled look that crossed his features as he chuckled. She was meant to be laying low, not hunting out in the opening. She hated to admit it, but she may need to feed soon; that meant a brief trip out of New Orleans.

"I'm sure you know nearly everything that needs to be known, given the party you're attending." His tone was playful, and she saw no warning in his gaze. Still, she couldn't help but be confused.

"This isn't my usual crowd. Can't say I know every guest like apparently you do." He gave another chuckle.

"I suppose I should, considering it is my party." His party. He as the host. Suddenly, the familiarity of his name made sense. Elijah Mikaelson, head of the family that threw this party every year. And, to those who ran in the supernatural circles, one of the most dangerous men alive. Not just a vampire, but an Original. Her hunger was shoved away by her fear, and his smile faded quickly. "Lily-"

"I have to go. I'm sorry." She started to pull away, already knowing which exit would take her to her car the fastest. He frowned, only slightly increasing the strength of his hold. She managed to squirm until he just had her hand, and she easily slipped from her glove and turned to run. Unable to be completely rude, she called over her shoulder. "Thanks for the dance." Once outside the ballroom, she gathered her skirts in hand and sprinted for her car, ducking in and immediately heading for the city limit. A few days away from town would give her a chance to both feed and drop off his radar. Hopefully, that would be all it would take.