Too late the dragon realized its peril; it tried to turn, to retreat, but the way out was blocked.

With a start, Tom realized their full peril.

The two men attempting to snatch the woman realized their peril.

Instantly, but too late, the giant Tarmangani realized his peril.

Only at the last moment did he realize his peril and leap back.

Too late the enemy soldiers realized their peril and tried to re-form.

And by the time he realized his peril, it would be too late.

Most likely they had realized their peril and fled.

The soldiers were quick to realize their peril.

His words fell into tense silence and died away as their speaker realized his peril.