Emberstrife

Emberstrife is an ancient black drake located in Emberstrife's Den in the Wyrmbog in Dustwallow Marsh. He is a gatekeeper of Nefarian, burdened with the duty to test those dragonspawn that would ascend to the rank of elite guard to Onyxia.

Only a few dragonspawn pass his tests and only the strongest of them are allowed entry into the lair of the brood mother. Many trials must be passed and the key to enter ceremoniously enchanted by General Drakkisath himself.

Abilities

 * Cleave
 * Flame Breath
 * Frenzy

Quests

 * Emberstrife (quest)
 * The Test of Skulls, Scryer
 * The Test of Skulls, Somnus
 * The Test of Skulls, Chronalis
 * The Test of Skulls, Axtroz
 * Ascension...

Emberstrife was also required to create the key to Upper Blackrock Spire; players must battle him, weaken his will, and take control of his mind long enough for his flames to forge the unfired key.

Speculation
While his status is not directly mentioned, it is possible that he is dead as most black dragons. However, as there is no quest to kill him, he may be alive and, in fact, he may be one of the dragons mentioned by Jaina Proudmoore prior the Destruction of Theramore.