I liked the big "flashing swords" symbols too, in the last era...
+ I'd like it if they (admins) would also put the bloody swords symbols in the alliance members boxes (alliances-->Members: list of names, etc) - ya know next to people's names. When attacks are occurring on your mates, then you would see those. You could respond and help in their defense.
As it is when alliance buddies are online when an attack is occurring, they can only just send mass messages or single messages.
my 2 cents worth....
Well, I see the swords when I was attacked......
How do yo propose to help in a players defence ?