Board Thread:Lore Discussion/@comment-1600847-20170206173025/@comment-31436340-20170514004755

Yeah if you follow how things work for Kings and Emperors. Every Emperor or Kings should have tons of such "Backup" plans. Take Uriel Septim VII's heirs for example. The Mythic Dawn had to go through a pretty big list before the throne even reached Martin Septim in the line.

Considering Sovereigns are always encouraged to procreate as far as possible with women of noble background and while not encouraged, no steps were often taken to prevent the Sovereigns to have sex with common women. So I never doubt Titus Mede II have more than several dozens of successors in line in case he dies. I'm fairly certain, the Elder Council has someone else in mind that's why he was assassinated in the DB's quest.

After all, having illegitimate sons and daughters that was not in official records can be fail safe as long as the Sovereign and his Court are of one mind. Titus Mede II was probably assassinated either because the Elder Council wants to curry favor the Thalmor or they want to fight.