I'm discovering torch gameplay and loving it with every second, but due to my lack of specific perk points to spend and overall curiosity about every possible thing that can be done with them, I have to ask two things:

1. Do the shield-specific perks apply to torches? (specifically block runner and shield charge)

2. Do torches run out over time? According to UESP they do, yet after playing with a torch for the last week (having kept 6 on me at all times), not a single torch ever became "unlit" and I finally decided to drop the other torches without this torch ever expiring either way. I guess my main question is, is it safe to rely on only one torch?

Thanks! And if you haven't tried them yet, torches are freaking amazing.