Ma Lin (Water Margin)

When Song Jiang follows the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh back to their stronghold after they rescued him at Jiangzhou (江州; present-day Jiujiang, Jiangxi), he comes by Mount Yellow Gate with the group. They are blocked by the four bandit chiefs, who demand to know whether Song is among them. When he steps out to show himself, the four comes forward to pay him homage. Their request to join Liangshan is welcomed by Song.

Song Jiang applauds Ma Lin's fighting skill during Liangshan's second offensive on the Zhu Family Manor when he has a dazzling fight with Hu Sanniang.

Ma Lin is appointed as one of the leaders of the Liangshan cavalry after all the 108 Stars of Destiny came together in what is called the Grand Assembly. He participates in the campaigns against the Liao invaders and rebel forces in Song territory following amnesty from Emperor Huizong for Liangshan.

In the attack on Black Dragon Ridge (烏龍嶺; northeast of present-day Meicheng Town, Jiande, Zhejiang) in the campaign against Fang La, Ma Lin is knocked off his horse by the enemy general Bai Qin. Shi Bao, Bai's comrade, slices him in two before he could get back on his feet.

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