In Greek mythology, Pallas was the daughter of Triton. Acting as a foster parent to Zeus' daughter Athena, Triton raised Athena alongside Pallas. During a friendly mock fight between the two, Zeus looked down from his seat in the sky and thought that they were fighting to kill. He distracted Pallas with his shield, Aegis, and Athena, expecting Pallas to dodge, thrust a spear into her heart, killing Pallas instantly.

Out of sadness and regret, Athena created the palladium, a statue in the likeness of Pallas.