Conversation so far:
How did Timur begin to attain power?
Timur reduced the Chagatai khans to the position of figureheads.
Did he accomplish that through battle or subterfuge?
he ruled in their name.
Did he go on to expand his people's lands?
CANNOTANSWER.
Are there any other interesting aspects about this article?
Timur began to gain a following of people in Balkh.
What was the result of his popularity in Balkh?
sharing his belongings with them.
Did he end up ruling Balkh?
allowing him to become imperial ruler of the Chaghatay tribe.
Did he fight any battles?
CANNOTANSWER.

Question: What other ploys did he use to gain power?
Self-contained rewrite: Aside from sharing his belongings in Balkh, What other ploys did Timur use to gain power?