Not sure. I think they might.  

So, I know that runes that you place can be activated if you hit them with destruction magic, but can they be activated by shooting them with either a bolt or an exploding dwarven bolt?

I'm pretty sure it works with an explosive one.

Okay, thanks.

is there any way to buff up VL lord form without using the hybrid VL/WW glitch. and what potions can I use that will carry over and buff up VL form. I'm planning to get Serana to make me a VL after Kindred Judgement and use it as like a huge power boost, but I feel like it's not strong enough to feel like this "op" transformation. 

Dismiss Serana and it will be OP. Other than that necromage will buff VL up. I'm not sure but maybe using the multi-equip glitch to drink a restoration potion(s) then take the perks might buff them up.

Are there any situations where mace-and-board would be preferable over a battle-ax, and vice-versa?

Do you have to complete Dragon Rising before you can do Message to Whiterun?

You can start Message to Whiterun before completing Dragon Rising, however Balgruuf will not give you an answer until you complete Dragon Rising.  Meaning that you cannot complete the Civil War without becoming Dragonborn. 

What about doing Message to Whiterun without starting the main quest/picking up the Dragon Stone?