Yuan Shao's ally, Cao Cao, launches a…

Yuan Shao's ally, Cao Cao, launches a campaign against Tao Qian in Xu Province in 194.

At this time, there are two opposing alliances—Yuan Shu, Tao Qian, and Gongsun Zan on one side, Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, and Liu Biao the other.

In face of strong pressure from Cao Cao's invading force, Tao Qian appeals to Tian Kai for help.

Tian Kai and Liu Bei led their armies to support Tao Qian.

Despite the initial success of the invasion, Cao Cao's subordinate Zhang Miao rebels and allows Lü Bu to take over Cao's base in Yan Province (present day western Shandong), forcing Cao to retreat from Xu Province.

Tao Qian asks Liu Bei to station his army in nearby Xiaopei (present day Pei County, Jiangsu) and give him four thousand more troops, in addition to one thousand or so troops and some Wuhuan cavalry already under his command.

Thus, Liu Bei deserts his supervisor Tian Kai for Tao Qian.

Meantime, Liu Bei raises troops around the area, and actively builds up connections with influential clans and people of the region.

In a rather short period of time, he has gained the support of the two most powerful families in Xu Province: the Mi clan led by Mi Zhu and Mi Fang, and the Chen clan led by Chen Gui and Chen Deng.

Liu Bei also marries Mi Zhu's younger sister to draw support from the Mi clan.

Upon Tao Qian's death shortly afterwards, Liu Bei secures his position around the area by building up connections and an army.

The Mi clan strongly advocates the governorship be passed on to Liu Bei instead of Tao Qian's sons.

Liu Bei is hesitant and apprehensive about taking the post when Chen Qun tells him that Yuan Shu would contest the control of the province with him.

Liu Bei then consults Kong Rong and Chen Deng, who advise him to switch allegiances and seek confirmation from the leading warlord, Yuan Shao.

Liu Bei finally takes over Xu Province after Yuan Shao recognizes his "succession".