Let's say I'm using Opera's new browser with free vpn. If I come across a torrent file that I want and start the download, Tixati opens and starts it's thing. Am I running the download through the vpn and therefor hidden?

Torrent Freak is an excellent source of news in the torrent community.  I was interested in your Q. and went there
straightaway.  

It appears that a browser VPN will not aid in torrent security but will allow access to torrent sites which may be blocked in some regions.

Thanks very much, Jeff