I started playing as the Colovian Estates, conquered Cyrodiil and proclaimed myself High King. After a couple more generations, Skyrim was conquered enough to form the High Kingdom, so I did. But it made a huge mess of succession so I got rid of it. After awhile longer I was able to take over High Rock and then form the Empire of Tamriel with those three High Kingdoms. Now, as Emperor, my vassals all hate me because I have 3 High Kingdom titles, the Colovian Estates title, and my eight holdings. I thought I could give away a High Kingdom once I was Emperor and still have it be my vassal, but looks like I can't. Or is there something I'm missing there?
Long question short, as Emperor of Tamriel can I give away the title of High King to a vassal without nominating them for succession, which would mean they just take over that kingdom and then I haven't really conquered it since its not my vassal. If I coinquer all of Tamriel, does that mean holding 9 High Kingdom titles myself?