Answer:
A leathery snake, with a stinging bite. I'll stay coiled up, unless I must fight.
It has no top or bottom, but it can hold flesh, bones, and blood all at the same time.
I cannot be other than what I am, until the man who made me dies. Power and glory will fall to me finally. Only when he last closes his eyes.
Reaching stiffly for the sky, I bare my fingers when its cold. In warmth I wear an emerald glove and in between I dress in gold.
What is full of holes but still holds water
Black we are and much admired. Many seek us if they are tired. We tire the horse, and comfort man, and turn White when we've fulfilled your plan.