I agree with brandy_painter - I never thought Relius loved Irene. I always came away with the impression that he loved wielding power and that he loved the country. I think that's why he stayed on after being so badly hurt by Attolia and offered an escape route by Gen.

And I think Gen himself saw some parallels, which is why he tried to visit at that time of night he knew nightmares came (what did he call it - the dog watch?).

So basically: yes.