The runes are spawned randomly at the beginning of each level. Only one of each are available, and a player may only carry one. They are picked up like any other item in the game. Once a player has a rune, he keeps it until he is fragged. Then it is dropped at that location. Unless the location is lava, etc., or the rune is not picked up after a period of time. Then it will randomly respawn somewhere on the map.
The Rune of Haste
The rune of Haste doubles the firing rate of the shotguns, grenade and rocket launchers. The nail guns are unaffected. The holder of this rune can be identified by the "roar" they make when firing. Great when used with the RL defending large rooms or with the DBSG in confined spaces. Not recommended for those who frequently become "bored with life"!
The Rune of Strength
The rune of Strength doubles the damage inflicted by your weapons. The holder of this rune makes the "Quad" power sound when firing. My personal favorite. Awesome one-man army defense with the RL and a vertical advantage. Even close shots render the enemy(s) into tiny giblets. Get the quad damage as well and you're talkin "tactical nuclear sidearm!" Again, not recommended for those players who can't seem to avoid suicide.
The Rune of Resistance
The rune of Resistance reduces the damage you take by half. The holder of this rune can be identified by the sound that you hear when you shoot them. They will make the same sound that you hear when you have the 666 (the Pentagram of Protection). Great for flag runs. Grab the 200 armor and the 150 health to go along with it and the enemy will think you're Superman when you get nailed by a couple of rockets and still manage to get away with the flag.
The Rune of Regeneration
The rune of Regeneration lets your health regenerate at the rate of four units per second, up to 101 percent. Your health can also be increased up to 250 percent by picking up 100 percent health packets and not have it drain as it normally does. The holder of this rune can be identified by the "health" sound as he regenerates. This rune is also good for flag runs if you can avoid continuous damage or "hole up" for a few seconds after grabbing the flag. Good for defenders who "hang around" base (get it?), saving them from having to ungrapple to grab some health if they take damage.