Gao Lian (Water Margin)

Gao Lian (高廉) is a character in the epic Chinese novel, the "Water Margin".

Like his notorious relative, Gao Qiu, Gao Lian was a corrupt government official who crossed swords with the Liangshan bandits. Gao Lian's relative Yin Tianxi once bullied and humiliated Chai Jin's uncle and Chai's uncle died of the severe injuries caused by Yin. Later, Yin Tianxi was killed by Li Kui in a fit of anger when Chai Jin went to confront Yin, escorted by Li Kui.

Chai was held responsible for Yin's death and was arrested by Gao Lian. Li Kui had fled back to Liangshan to seek help from the heroes. Gao Lian had Chai severely tortured and locked up in a prison in Gaotangzhou. Later, the Liangshan heroes arrived with an army to attack Gaotangzhou and rescue Chai Jin.

Gao Lian was a master of sorcery and he defeated the heroes in the first battle by conjuring up a whirlwind. Song Jiang who had some knowledge in sorcery managed to dispel the whirlwind and allowed the heroes to launch an attack. Later, Gao Lian summoned some fiercesome and poisonous beasts with his magic shield to attack the heroes. He was eventually defeated by Gongsun Sheng in a battle of magical powers. The heroes then managed to break through Gaotangzhou's defences and killed Gao Lian. Chai Jin was rescued after being hidden in a dry well by Gao Lian for days.