Historically, Diao Chan was one of the Four Beauties of ancient China. However, unlike the other three, there is no known evidence suggesting her existence. Chinese historical records mention Lu Bu secretly having an affair with one of Dong Zhuo's maids, who was never named. This leaves many to believe she was a fictional character.

In the Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel, she was a dancer under the loyal care of Wang Yun. The game changes this fact to a father/daughter relationship. Together, they both instigated a plan to use Diao Chan's charm to pit both Lu Bu and Doug Zhuo against one another, eventually leading to Bu kill Zhuo and taking Diao Chan for himself.